About Based Adventures
Our Story
Where It Started
A trail crew that became a brotherhood.
Based Adventures started with four friends who noticed the same thing on every trip: men open up on the trail in ways they never do at a bar table or a boardroom. Miles in, the small talk runs out and the real conversations start.
What began as informal weekend hikes grew into a standing invitation — to any man looking for something realer than scrolling, drinking, or going it alone. Today we run expeditions across the country, but the mission hasn’t changed: use the wild to build men who show up for each other.
What We Believe
Four ideas we build every trip around.
I
Strength is shared, not hoarded
A man who carries his own weight should still help carry someone else’s. That’s the whole point of a brotherhood.
II
Discomfort builds character
Cold mornings, heavy packs, hard climbs. We don’t avoid the discomfort — we use it. It’s where growth actually happens.
III
Honesty over image
No posturing. We’d rather a man say “I’m struggling” around the fire than pretend to have it all figured out.
IV
No one walks alone
On the trail and off it. Every man in this brotherhood has people who will show up when it matters.
The Team
The guys behind the trips.
Mark Schattenberg
Founder & Lead Guide
Fifteen years guiding backcountry trips. Believes a good blister story is worth more than small talk.
Paul Schattenberg
Remote Support & Weather
Former therapist turned trail leader. Runs the campfire conversations that keep men coming back.
Ezra Cole
Head of Logistics
Keeps every expedition running on time and on trail. Has never lost a group, and isn’t planning to start.
Owen Park
Wilderness Medic
EMT and climber. Makes sure every man comes home in better shape than he left.
Join The Story
Write Your Next Chapter On The Trail.
Every expedition is a chance to test yourself and find brothers who’ll be there long after the trip ends.