Guided backpacking trips in Western North Carolina and beyond
Nero Experiences is now the owner of Island Ford Adventures, a full-service backpacking guide service
Be. Empowered. Outdoors.
Through our partnership with Island Ford Adventures, we specialize in guided overnight and multi-night trips, women’s backpacking workshops, and outdoor education designed to build confidence, connection, and a deeper sense of belonging in the natural world.
Our adventures are rooted in the belief that we all need: The time to just be, the knowledge to feel empowered, and the space to enjoy the outdoors.
Island Ford Adventures was originally founded by Jayne Fought and Clyde Carter, who built the company from their shared love of the outdoors and a desire to empower others to explore safely and confidently. Their vision created a strong foundation—one that Katlyn is proud to honor and grow from as she leads the company into its next season through Nero Experiences.
Whether you're showing up for your first hike or returning for a new adventure, we’re so glad you're here.
Scroll down to the bottom to view the full calendar.
Day Hike & Overnight Options
“BackCrafting” Experience
Creative Hiking Retreat in the Blue Ridge Mountains. We hike in to a pretty place and do a craft together. Each hike has a different activity - Watercolors, weaving, acrylics, carving, or other crafts. All materials are provided. No hiking, backpacking, or art skills required.
Multi Day Backpacking Trip
Guided 4 Day / 3 Night Backpacking Trip on the Appalachian Trail
Max Patch to Hot Springs, NC, including a free soak. We extended this popular backpacking trail for four days instead of three so we can take our time and enjoy more time on this beautiful trail.
Guided Overnight Backpacking Trip
Full-ish Moon Overnight Hike at Sam’s Knob
This is a part of an ongoing full-ish moon group backpacking trips. Only $100 if you BYOG (Bring your own gear) or rent gear from us.
Workshop + Guided Overnight Trip
Women’s Intro to Backpacking Full-Day Workshop + Guided Overnight Trip
Come learn the skills you need to feel confident in the forest and then use your skills on a guided overnight backpacking trip in Pisgah.
Planning and Itinerary
Custom Trip Planning in WNC and Beyond
Katlyn is a Certified Trail Guide and a Travel Advisor who loves planning incredible trips. These can be remote backcountry adventures, campground stays, or hotel-based trips. Reach out if you’ve got an adventure in mind and want help sorting out the details.
“I fell in love with backpacking while thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail. Having everything you need on your back is an amazing feeling, but I know how intimidating it can be to try it for the first time. My goal with every trip is to help you discover your love of backpacking by creating ridiculously awesome and approachable guided overnight trips that make you want to start planning your next trip right away. ”
Meet Your Guide
Name: Katlyn Mobley
Longest Trail Hiked: Appalachian Trail (2189.1 miles)
Favorite local trail: So many! Probably Sam’s Knob
Most Recent Thru Hike: Chilean Patagonia W Trek
Favorite Local Coffee Shop: High Five in Asheville (order the Iced Cesspool)
Favorite Wildflower: Mountain Laurell
Custom Trip Planning Available Upon Request
Need a different date/time than what’s listed? Want a longer trip? A different location?? Fill out the trip request form and we’ll get back in touch ASAP to start planning your custom adventure.