Give the Gift of Adventure: 10 Years of Unforgettable Trips

Together, Dad and I have hiked Rim to Rim in the Grand Canyon, rafted for five days on the Wild and Scenic Rogue River, backpacked through Rocky Mountain National Park, and trekked the world’s longest slot canyon, Buckskin Gulch (which we now guide with All Ways Adventure!). We’ve shouldered packs into the glowing sandstone of Neon Canyon (another All Ways Adventure favorite), and explored dozens of other wild, beautiful places. Sometimes we bring friends and family, but even if it’s just the two of us, we’re perfectly happy to lace up our boots and head out together.

Last May, Dad and I floated the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon on a guided rafting trip, checking off one of his lifelong bucket list goals. Then in October, my brother, Dad, and I spent three nights in the Yosemite Backcountry to summit Half Dome—a trip where my brother and I shared our love of rock climbing and peak bagging with Dad.

When I first started guiding, I never expected my Kansas-born, NFL-loving, meat-and-potatoes dad to become my most loyal adventure buddy. But he’s always ready with a “yes” whenever I pull the next obscure permit. Year after year, this tradition has deepened our relationship and turned us into best friends. The trips themselves are unforgettable, but the real gift is the bond we’ve built along the way.

Bonus for Dad - along the way I found my way back to the Chiefs football and Kansas City BBQ!

When we were in Yosemite earlier this year, my dad got quiet for a moment and then said, "You know, Jillian, we would never be here if it weren't for you." I still get emotional thinking about it. It's a powerful acknowledgment of the passion I’ve invested in guiding: working hard not just for my own objectives, but to help my loved ones fall in love with the wild places that mean so much to me. It’s humbling to be recognized for this effort, even though the easy response is to deflect the praise. But the truth is, our objectives—mine and my dad's—have grown in grandeur simply because we’ve been consistent in showing up, which is always the hardest part. I try to run a business that implores our staff to treat their guests like family, and I lead by example: everyone deserves that moment, perched on the side of Half Dome with the ones they love, to just revel in the glory of it all. We only get one short life to live, and there is no time to waste in getting after your dreams.

That’s why I believe so deeply in giving the gift of adventure. Experiences don’t gather dust or go out of style—they grow more valuable with time. They create stories, laughter, courage, and connection that last far longer than anything that comes in a box. For me and my dad, this choice has given us over a decade of unforgettable memories. And I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

This season, consider giving the people you love the same gift: the chance to explore, to share something new, and to walk away with memories you’ll both carry forever. There’s no price tag you can put on that.

Ready to give the gift of adventure? Check out our All Ways Adventure Gift Cards and surprise someone with an experience that will last a lifetime.

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Do You Need a Guide for the Narrows in Zion National Park? (Honest Local Advice)

By Jillian Mielke • April 19, 2026

The Biggest Limitation of a Guided Narrows Hike This is the part most people don’t realize before booking. On a guided Narrows hike, there is a mandatory turnaround point at the junction with Orderville Canyon. This is right at the beginning of the famous Wall Street section. To reach that point, you’ll hike: About 1 mile on the paved Riverside Walk , plus About 1.5 miles in the river You will likely see many independent hikers continuing past this point into Wall Street . However, no reputable guide service will: Continue beyond this point Split the group Allow guests to hike ahead without the guide If your goal is to go deeper into the Narrows, a guided trip may actually limit how far you can go. Is the Narrows Safe Without a Guide? Yes, the Narrows can be safe without a guide, if conditions are good and you’re prepared . The main risks to be aware of: Flash floods (weather-dependent and serious) Cold water, especially outside peak summer Slippery rocks and uneven footing Many hikers safely complete part of the Narrows on their own each year, but it’s important to check conditions and be realistic about your comfort level. What Most People Underestimate About the Narrows A few things catch people off guard: The current : Even when water levels are considered “normal,” the flow can be stronger than expected Footing : Walking on submerged, uneven rocks takes more effort than a typical trail, especially when the water is "chocolate milk" colored due to flooding Cold exposure : Water and air temperatures can be cold even on warm days This is where some hikers appreciate having a guide, especially if they’re unsure what to expect.