Talus Outdoor Expeditions (2024)

07/07/2024

Hey friends and family!

As many of you know, I started an outdoor expedition company last year, Talus Outdoor Expeditions. I did this in the same year as making a pretty big move with my full time career which has proven to take a lot of time and energy.

I have been pretty quiet with it for this reason, but wanted to do something this year. I listened to what other people had to say, talked to mentors and decided I wanted to create a trip based off experience and quality rather than doing a ton of trips.

With his being said, I am announcing a September weekend trip (my favorite time to hike) that includes a trip up Mt Elbert and to Maroon Bells Lake.

The trip includes lodging for 2 nights as well as breakfast/lunch on both days.

Im excited to see how this type of trip will do and, or course, spend some mountain time with some great people.

I am limiting this trip to 6 people, so if you or anyone you know if interested, just let me know!

Thank you and have a great rest of your weekend!!

24/12/2023

Wishing you and your family a happy holiday season this year! Keep an eye out for some exciting announcements for whats in store in 2024! 🎉

24/09/2023

Fall time is the absolute best time to hike in Colorado. Less crowds, crisp air and the iconic Colorado foliage is all I need to spend my time outside.

Although it is true that September and October can bring on some precarious weather (like the snow that has fallen on taller peaks), its usually not serious enough to cause much trouble. Just make sure to pack your extra layers.

Here are my favorite spots to see the fall colors
1. Aspen. The name gives it away but Aspen does have some of the best fall foliage you can hope to see. Places like Capitol Lake and the Maroon Bells are iconic places to see. Just don't expect to find much solitude as these hikes are usually pretty packed.
2. Buena Vista. From hiking the tallest point in Colorado, Mt Elbert, to simple drives like the ghost town of St Elmo, you should have no trouble finding some good spots and great colors in BV.
3. Granby. My go to hike, and an available expedition, is hiking to the base of Lone Eagle Peak just outside of Granby. But, you can find other gems all around this area.
4. Telluride and Ouray. If you are up for a drive, these spots have the most impressive mountain range in Colorado in the San Juans. From hiking back into the Chicago Basin to a simple drive to Telluride, you can find options for any level.
5. Lake City. This is my little secret gem of Colorado. Located about an hour south of Gunnison, this little city is mainly unknown unless you are an avid ATVer or 14er finisher. Its well worth the drive trust me.

The prime time of the fall colors is right here! Make sure you get outside and enjoy them before winter comes rolling around.

10/09/2023

🏞️ Unveiling Colorado's Majestic 14ers! ⛰️🌄

Calling all mountain enthusiasts! Are you ready to embark on an epic journey and conquer the highest peaks in Colorado? 🏔️✨ Here are the best 14ers to kickstart your ascent and witness awe-inspiring vistas that will leave you breathless! 🌟

1️⃣ Mount Bierstadt: This iconic peak is a favorite among beginners. With its accessible trailhead and breathtaking views, it's the perfect introduction to Colorado's 14ers. Lace up your boots and prepare for a memorable adventure!

2️⃣ Quandary Peak: Known for its gentle slopes and well-marked trail, Quandary Peak is ideal for hikers looking to push their limits. Reach the summit and savor panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. This one's a true gem!

3️⃣ Mount Sherman: A historic mining site turned hiking destination, Mount Sherman offers an exhilarating journey for both novice and experienced climbers. Experience the thrill of summiting while relishing the remnants of Colorado's mining past.

4️⃣ Mount Elbert: As the highest peak in the state, Mount Elbert is a challenge worth conquering. This behemoth rewards hikers with sweeping views and a sense of accomplishment like no other. Embrace the elevation and rise above the rest!

5️⃣ Grays and Torreys Peaks: These twin peaks are a must for your Colorado adventure. Connected by a ridge, Grays and Torreys Peaks offer a thrilling traverse and two breathtaking summits in one epic expedition. Double the fun, double the memories!

6️⃣ Mount Evans: Known for its accessibility, Mount Evans boasts the highest paved road in North America. Drive up to a lofty altitude, then hike the remaining distance to the summit. Marvel at the stunning landscapes as you ascend!

7️⃣ Longs Peak: A true challenge for experienced climbers, Longs Peak is the ultimate test of your mountaineering skills. With exposed sections and unpredictable weather, it demands respect and preparation. Conquer this iconic peak and earn bragging rights!

🌟 Colorado's 14ers await your adventurous spirit! Lace up those boots, pack your determination, and get ready to scale new heights. These peaks will test your limits, reward your efforts, and leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Are you up for the challenge? 🌄🥾

🏔️ Colorado's Moderate 14ers: An Adventure Awaits! ⛰️🌄

Are you seeking a thrilling mountain experience that strikes the perfect balance between challenge and accessibility? Look no further! Colorado's moderate 14ers offer an exhilarating journey that will test your limits and reward you with stunning vistas. Lace up your boots and get ready for an unforgettable adventure! 🥾✨

03/09/2023

Had a truly awesome experience being able to hike up Pikes Peak with a good friend of mine, Dennie. It was Dennie's 70th birthday the day we hiked and this was a two year goal of his. Always remember that the biggest thing limiting most of us is our mind!

20/08/2023

Had a truly awesome opportunity to take Keith, a legally blind man, on a hike up to Devils Playground on the way to Pikes Peak. Although we didn't make it quite to our destination, it was an eye opening experience for our team and one we hope to continue in the future.

I want to thank Keith for not only giving us the opportunity, but for not allowing his physical limitations to limit him in life. Because that is truly what life is about. And the hike yesterday really inspired me to keep pushing in my own life.

I started this company because I have the believe that the outdoors has changed my life for the better and that it could do the same for others. And I also believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience this for themselves. Whether your goal is to scale a 14er or just to push yourself a little further beyond what you have done, everyone should have the ability to enjoy the benefits of being outdoors.

As the 2023 season comes closer to its end, we are taking the good and the bad from this year to grow and expand into next year. We intend to have more expeditions, big and small, to allow more people to experience the outdoors.

DM us for any interest in our 2023 expeditions or for feedback or requests for next year!

See you on the trails!!

06/08/2023

Ready to conquer the majestic heights of Colorado's towering mountains? 🏞️🥾 We've got your back with the top tips to kickstart your journey towards scaling those magnificent peaks. 🏔️✨

1️⃣ Do Your Research: Before embarking on your mountain conquest, gather information about the trail conditions, weather patterns, and any permits or regulations you may need. Knowledge is power, and it'll ensure you're prepared for what lies ahead!

2️⃣ Start Slow and Steady: Tackling taller mountains requires proper training and acclimatization. Begin with smaller hikes, gradually increasing difficulty and altitude over time. Your body will thank you, and you'll build the necessary endurance for those breathtaking summits!

3️⃣ Gear Up for Success: Invest in quality hiking gear, including sturdy boots, layered clothing for varying weather conditions, a reliable backpack, trekking poles, and a first aid kit. Be prepared for the unexpected and prioritize safety above all else.

4️⃣ Stay Hydrated and Fuel Your Body: Proper hydration and nutrition are vital during strenuous hikes. Carry plenty of water, electrolyte-rich snacks, and high-energy meals to replenish your body's needs. Keep those energy levels up as you ascend to new heights!

5️⃣ Know Thy Limits: Listen to your body and recognize your limits. Altitude sickness is a real concern, so pay attention to any symptoms such as dizziness or nausea. It's okay to adjust your plans or turn back if necessary. Safety should always be the number one priority!

6️⃣ Hike Responsibly: Respect the mountains and the natural environment. Stick to designated trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and leave no trace behind. Let's preserve these magnificent landscapes for generations to come!

7️⃣ Seek Guidance: Consider joining a guided hiking tour or partnering with experienced mountaineers. Their expertise and knowledge can enhance your adventure, providing valuable insights and ensuring a safer, more fulfilling experience.

Ready to start? Contact us to see how we can assist in all the above areas so you can focus on enjoying the scenery.

30/07/2023

You're missing out if you are here in Colorado and not experiencing nature.

Great weather, great people, great exercise and great conversations. What more would you need?

Looking to experience the best that Colorado has to offer? DM us at Talus Outdoor Expeditions and see how we can help create unforgettable memories!

20/07/2023

Looking for something fun to do on July 29th and always wanted to see great views like this?

Join us for a guided tour up Colorado's highest peak, Mt Elbert to experience the great outdoors and capture lasting memories.

We have limited tour options for our inaugural year so act fast while the opportunity is there and the cost is low!

I guarantee it will be an experience you wont forget!

Book directly here-> https://www.viator.com/tours/Colorado/Experience-the-Tallest-Point-in-Colorado-Mt-Elbert/d273-380779P1

19/06/2023

Need to Know Before Climbing Mt Elbert.

1. It is the tallest mountain in Colorado and second tallest mountain in the lower 48
2. It is extremely accessible to almost anyone.
3. It is a class 1 hike. Meaning, no rock climbing or technical skills are required
4. It is roughly a 10 mile hike with roughly 4700 feet of elevation gain. This means just under 1000 feet of elevation gain per mile or 20% average incline. Think of it as a giant hill.
5. It takes 6-8 hours on average to complete.
6. From the top, you can see beautiful views of the rest of the Sawatch Range

Who is this expedition best for? Mt Elbert is best for those who are in good shape and have spent some time in higher elevations. Maybe you have hiked a lot here in Colorado, but have never done a 14er. If so, this is your best choice.

Interested on a guided expedition up to Mt. Elbert?
Book Directly on Viator: https://www.viator.com/tours/Colorado/Experience-the-Tallest-Point-in-Colorado-Mt-Elbert/d273-380779P1
DM us for questions:

See you in the mountains!

14/06/2023

Get to know our 2023 guides!!

Our second guide and brother of the founder, Jesse Faloon, is an outdoor enthusiast in his own right. Jesse has completed 33 14ers here in Colorado and worked as a camp counselor at Camp Red Cloud in Lake City, CO for 3 years.

Jesse has plans to complete all 58 14ers within the next few years.

What was your best memory while completing the 14ers? The most unique one I completed was Quandray. An easier peak to most, Drew and I decided to climb it on December 28th of 2017. We got caught in a blizzard up top and had an interesting treck back down to our car. It made for good memories and a good story.

Beyond completing the 14ers, what other outdoor goals do you have? I think snowboarding in Japan and New Zealand would be awesome. Something about being in those two places in the snow just sounds awesome.

What is your literal mountain you want to climb in life? My literal mountain would have to be the final 14er in Colorado, whichever one that is. I would like to explore other places, but completing all 58 14ers here in Colorado would be an awesome awesome accomplishment.

What is one thing you do outside of outdoor activities? I would say writing. Using my creativeness to put something magical on paper is very rewarding.

Looking to explore the best that Colorado has to offer with us? DM us to inquire about upcoming expeditions. Trust us, you wont regret it.

07/06/2023

Get to know our 2023 guides!!

Owner and founder, Drew Faloon is what you would probably consider obsessed with the outdoors. After hearing stories of his father completing all the Colorado 14ers when he was in his 30's and going up his first 14er, Mt Democrat, in 2017, Drew decided this would be his main side activity.

Drew went on to complete all 58 14ers in 2022, with San Luis being the finisher.

What was your best memory while completing the 14ers? I spent a full week in October of 2020 hiking the Wilson Group out near Telluride and Uncompadgre/Wetterhorn near Lake City, Colorado. I drove 6+ hours away by myself to climb the Wilson group and was able to basically have the mountains to myself, while Wetterhorn is one of my favorite mountains I have climbed. It was one of the best weeks of my life.

You completed the 14ers, whats next? Well, I am knocking out the tallest 100 mountains in Colorado (also called the centennials) and plan to start traveling to other states to complete the 50 state high points. I'm also getting into mountain biking and snowshoeing.

What is your metaphorical and literal mountain to climb in life? I love inspiring people and making them smile. I have a vision of positively impacting 100,000 people in my lfe and have no intention of stopping until I get there. My literal mountain in life is Denali in Alaska. Something about standing over 20k feet would be amazing.

What is one thing you do outside of outdoor activities? Well, I own a financial planning firm and that is my full time and original business. That tends to take most of my time.

Looking to explore the best that Colorado has to offer with us? DM us to inquire about upcoming expeditions. Trust us, you wont regret it.

31/05/2023

Westcliffe, Colorado

Looking for a beautiful area with less crowds and just a short distance from some of the major cities? I would recommend Westcliffe.

It also has some of the best 14er hiking you can do in Colorado.

Follow us for tips on the best places to see in Colorado, how to prepare for outdoor adventures in Colorado or just beautiful pictures.

Also remember that we are getting close to our first expeditions starting in July. If you'd like to join the team for some great outdoor hikes around Colorado, just DM us or short us a quick email at [email protected]

24/05/2023

Capitol Peak, my second to last 14er here in Colorado in 2022.

Capitol Peak is often considered the toughest 14er in Colorado, mainly due to its "knife edge ridge". A short slab of solid rock that comes to a point right before the final accent. It has a few thousand feet of drop on each side.

By no means do I advocate for people to do something inherently dangerous or negligent to hurt themselves or others. But, I do think a lot of hiking and challenging yourself is mental. The knife edge and Capitol Peak is no joke, but in my experience, the biggest obstacle was the mental anxiety.

As I straddled across (yes, I straddled it and I'm not afraid to admit it), I was so laser focused, that it was over in what seemed like a few seconds. Then, it was onto the next obstacle.

Capitol Peak is not on the expedition list for 2023, but we have 3 other amazing trips on the books to check out. And I can promise you that each one will be amazing and the physical and mental challenges you endure will be well worth it.

Let's explore together!!

21/05/2023

📸 Capture the Adventure, Create Memories Together! 🌍❤️

🏔️ Join us on an unforgettable journey as we explore the wonders of the world! At Talus Outdoor Expeditions, we believe in the power of shared experiences and the lasting memories they create. 🌟

🌍 Let us take you off the beaten path and immerse you in breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and thrilling adventures.

💫 Our team of experienced guides is dedicated to curating extraordinary expeditions that cater to every adventurer's passion. Whether you're a thrill-seeker, nature lover, or cultural enthusiast, we have the perfect adventure waiting for you. 🌿🌄

📆 Mark your calendars, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable journey! Together, let's create memories that will last a lifetime. Remember that discounted prices for all expeditions are live right now and will expire at the end of May. Act now for the best prices. 📸❤️

📲 Follow us to stay updated on our upcoming expeditions, behind-the-scenes adventures, and breathtaking photos that will ignite your wanderlust! 🌎✨

👉🏼 Book your next adventure today! Visit our website expeditions here->
https://www.viator.com/tours/Denver/Guided-Colorado-Fall-Foliage-Hike-Legault-Mountain/d4837-380779P4

https://www.viator.com/tours/Colorado/Guided-Tour-of-Iconic-Mirror-Lake-and-Lone-Eagle-Peak/d273-380779P3

https://www.viator.com/tours/Colorado/Experience-the-Tallest-Point-in-Colorado-Mt-Elbert/d273-380779P1

14/05/2023

🎉 Announcement!! All 3 expeditions for 2023 our now live. Book before the end of this month to get 15-20% off regular price. Trust us, this will be your best deal you will ever receive from us at Talus Outdoor Expeditions so you better move quick!

🏔 Mt Elbert is the tallest point in Colorado. Ever thought to yourself, "Wow, it would be awesome to stand on the tallest point in Colorado"? Well, here is your chance! See wonderful views of surrounding mountain ranges and valleys in what I call the "Gentle Giant" of 14ers in Colorado. See the details here-> https://www.viator.com/tours/Colorado/Experience-the-Tallest-Point-in-Colorado-Mt-Elbert/d273-380779P1

🏔 Lone Eagle Peak & Mirror Lake is a top 3 favorite Colorado hike for me. Waterfalls, wildlife, lakes and iconic views. All while being having your peace and quiet on this secluded hike. Challenging, but well worth the effort, make sure to bring your best camera for this one. See details here-> https://www.viator.com/tours/Colorado/Guided-Tour-of-Iconic-Mirror-Lake-and-Lone-Eagle-Peak/d273-380779P3

🏔 Lastly, Legault Mountain. This one is our easiest expedition and specifically made available to see Colorado's fall colors. If you want a more laid back option, but still get the wonderful views, this one is for you. Check it out here-> https://www.viator.com/tours/Denver/Guided-Colorado-Fall-Foliage-Hike-Legault-Mountain/d4837-380779P4

Let's explore together!

11/05/2023

Talus Outdoor Expeditions.

Some may wonder, what the heck is a Talus?

Well, its a few things. And no, I didn't name my company after the bone in your ankle. Talus is a mountaineering term that refers to a pile of rocks that accumulates at the base of a mountain. And more importantly, its the name of my best friend and faithful dog companion.

So why name my company this? Well, on top of it being the name of my dog, I see Talus as an important life lesson. The truth is, I hate Talus (the rock pile, not my dog). Reason being is its extremely tough to hike over. The rocks are usually loose and moving which leads to slow steps and sprained ankles. But, its an obstacle that is almost inevitable in the outdoors. And by conquering this obstacle, you get rewarded with beautiful views and lasting memories.

The lesson? Sometimes the best things in life involve experiencing things that are not so fun. But, if you never even try, you may miss out on some of the best memories of your life.

And that is the mission of my business. To inspire people and create memories through the great outdoors. And even though the expeditions may be challenging at times, I can guarantee they will be worth it.

Additionally, I need to give a quick shoutout to Erica and Nick Pannella, who inspired me to take the leap with this company. You two are awesome! Also, they are the best chiropractors I know so go check out their company, Axon Health.

Talus Outdoor Expeditions