It is hard to find the words to describe how blown away we were by this tour. Not for the faint of heart, there were a few times I had to cover my eyes. We had been to the Needles before but weren’t able to make it all the way to Chesler Park due to time restraints. We only had one day and it is a long hike. This tour did not disappoint. The Joint Trail to Chesler Park is one of the most awesome and magical places I’ve ever experienced. I would never have been able to get there without NAVTEC and especially our driver and new friend Char.
We loved Char from the moment we met her. We were expecting a big burly man driver so when she pulled up at our hotel we were immediately impressed. She is a very special person in so many ways. Not only is she an absolute expert driver, who made us feel comfortable and confident with her ability to get us safely up and over Elephant Hill (NOT a road by any definition!!), she gave a master class in the area’s history and geology in the process. Even though I have a severe fear of heights, she kept me calm. She gave us a great lunch and then expertly led us up through the Joint Trail. It was somewhat difficult for me as my knees aren’t what they use to be, but she gently guided and encouraged me (and even lifted me at one point!) to get me through. It was an unforgettable trip, just like her.
Char’s experience and knowledge of the area were on top of her concern for us, and how seriously she took our safety. Do not hesitate to book this tour. It is a long day, but I can’t think of many other days like the one we had on our Needles 4x4 tour with Char at NAVTEC Expeditions. We can’t thank you enough.