Tired of the same old trails and tourist stops? Ready to swap traffic for towering peaks and hiking boots for hooves? Then welcome to a different kind of Colorado adventure—one where llamas carry your gear and mountain air fuels your spirit.
Paragon Guides, based in Edwards, Colorado, isn’t just a hiking company. It’s your all-access pass to the quieter corners of the Rockies—where pine-scented breezes whisper through the trees, and every twist in the trail brings a new alpine surprise. Whether you’re looking for a serene day hike or a multi-day backcountry journey, Paragon doesn’t just take you into the wilderness—they help you belong in it.
What We Love
Llama Treks With Personality
Meet your four-legged hiking companions: gentle, furry, and shockingly photogenic llamas. These helpful creatures carry the gear (and occasionally steal the show) while you enjoy a lightened load and lots of laughs. You’ll be surprised how quickly you bond with them—and how handy they are for kids and new hikers.
Local Guides With Big Stories
The guides here aren’t just wilderness experts—they’re colorful storytellers, survival pros, and passionate naturalists who know the Rockies like their own backyard. Want to know which wildflowers are edible or which peak hosted a daring ski descent? Just ask—they’re full of tales.
Custom Adventures For All Types
From family-friendly day hikes to rugged overnight hut-to-hut treks, Paragon tailors every trip to your comfort level and curiosity. You can even book a private guided experience with a gourmet lunch in a wildflower meadow—yes, really.
Snowshoeing In A Winter Wonderland
When the snow falls, Paragon turns the Vail Valley into a serene playground. Winter tours offer snowshoeing along hushed forest trails and peaceful vistas, where animal tracks replace foot traffic and silence speaks volumes.
Hut Trips With Cozy Perks
Opt for a backcountry hut trip and enjoy a cozy night tucked into the 10th Mountain Division hut system. Think rustic wood-burning stoves, hearty camp meals, and crisp morning coffee served with jaw-dropping mountain views.
Atmosphere & Setting
From the moment you step out of the car in Edwards, the air feels crisper, cleaner—like you’ve entered a Colorado postcard. Paragon’s home base is warm and welcoming, but the true magic begins when you hit the trail. Imagine wildflower-dappled hillsides, groves of aspen that shimmer like silver, and jaw-dropping vistas that appear without warning. Birdsong floats overhead. Llamas quietly plod behind you. It’s serene, soul-stirring, and surprisingly accessible.
Value (Is It Worth It?)
Trips range from affordable day hikes to more premium overnight excursions, but every dollar feels well spent. Llama treks start around $200 for half-day experiences, while hut trips and snowshoe tours vary based on duration and group size. You’re not just paying for the guide—you’re investing in the know-how, logistics, and once-in-a-lifetime experience. Perfect for active couples, families looking for unplugged bonding time, or solo travelers craving a mindful escape.
Other Considerations
Book ahead—especially in summer and fall. Paragon provides most of the gear, but sturdy shoes, sunscreen, and layers are must-haves. Altitude can sneak up on lowlanders, so hydrate early and often. Llamas are calm but curious—watch your snacks! Parking is easy at their Edwards location, and trips depart nearby. Cell service fades fast in the backcountry, so take a break from scrolling and soak in the silence.
Want to feel small in the best possible way? Let a sure-footed llama and a savvy local guide lead the way. At Paragon Guides, the mountains aren’t just a backdrop—they’re an invitation.
Paragon Guides
đź“Ť 210 Edwards Village Blvd # B-107, Edwards, CO 81632, United States