The Western North Carolina Climate and What to Expect

If you’ve been looking at the forecast for your upcoming trip, you might see a high percentage chance of rain or thunderstorms. Please don't panic! The mountains of Southern Appalachia have an incredibly unique and fickle when it comes to weather. It is not uncommon for a forecast to predict a 100% chance of rain for a week straight, only for the actual day to turn out absolutely beautiful, or to yield just a brief afternoon shower. Because the weather here changes rapidly and mountain topography blocks or redirects storms, general weather apps are rarely accurate for our public lands.

Our Communication & Approach to Safety

Because the weather is so unpredictable, we try not to cancel any trip until the day of the scheduled activity. We want to give you every possible chance to get out on the trail or the rock! Here is how we will stay in touch:

• A 48-Hour Update: We will actively monitor local radar and reach out to you 48 hours before your trip with a realistic weather assessment and an overview of what to expect.

• Backup Plans: Despite our 48-hour update, you are always welcome to contact us sooner to discuss the forecast. We are happy to chat through what optional itinerary changes, alternative locations, or backup plans look like for your specific adventure.

• Rain or Shine: We operate in rain, snow, mist, and typical mountain weather. Often, these conditions make for a unique and beautiful experience.

• Day-Of Call: Your guide will monitor real-time radar and local conditions up until the morning of your trip. If we determine that conditions are genuinely unsafe (e.g., high winds, severe lightning, or slick rock conditions for climbing) or that the trip is completely unfeasible, we will make the official call to cancel.

If We Cancel Your Trip

Your safety is our absolute highest priority. If we cancel your guided trip due to hazardous weather or safety concerns, you will be given two options:

1. Reschedule: A credit to reschedule your trip for a future date.

2. Refund: A full refund of your booking.

Important Note for Guests: Please plan to arrive at your scheduled meeting time unless you have explicitly heard from us that the trip is canceled. Standard cancellation policies apply if a guest chooses not to show up based on a personal weather assessment.

Cancellation Policy

At Adventure Grown Guides, we understand that unexpected circumstances can arise, and trips may need to be cancelled. Our cancellation policy is designed to be fair and flexible while allowing us to continue providing high-quality outdoor experiences.

If you need to cancel your trip, please notify us as soon as possible. Our cancellation policy is as follows:

• Cancellation 14 days or more prior to the trip: A full refund (100%) will be issued.

• Cancellation between 5-14 days prior to the trip: A 50% refund will be issued.

• Cancellation less than 5 days prior to the trip: No refund will be issued.

• If we cancel a trip due to weather-related safety concerns: We may offer either a rescheduled trip or a full refund.

We understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise, and we will work with you to find a solution whenever possible. However, please note that our guides and staff prepare extensively for each trip, and last-minute cancellations can result in significant losses for our small business. To ensure a smooth experience for all parties involved, we kindly request that you respect our cancellation policy. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.