We're artists, makers, and mountain guides who have called the Gunnison Valley home our whole lives. What we do is simple: take creatives into the alpine and let the mountains do what they've always done — quiet the noise, spark something new, and remind you who you are. Whether you paint, write, photograph, or just need to hit reset, there's a place for you out here.

Who We Are

Your Guides

A woman with long, curly red hair wearing a wide-brimmed straw hat and a sleeveless denim vest, standing in a field of yellow and white flowers with mountains in the background, under a cloudy sky, smiling at the camera.

Bel Young

With a vision for building something meaningful, Bel has blended her passions for the outdoors, art, and bringing people together. She is the founder, the lead guide, and the artist behind Mentality to Reality.

Bel has 6 years of guiding experience in all seasons. She is a born and raised Crested Butte local with deep roots in the West Elk Mountains. You can find her with glitter on her cheeks and a drawing pad in her hand, as she shares what makes these mountains special.

Guide, Artist & Founder

A man with long blond hair and a beard standing outdoors in autumn, wearing a light-colored shirt with decorative black patterns, in front of trees with yellow and brown leaves.

Adam Sampson

Adam is the foundation for the Mentality to Reality operation. He is a multi talented business partner who can simultaneously guide and fix anything at the cabin. He has roots in Salida, CO and enjoys kayaking, mountain biking, and traveling.

This summer he will be building a new sauna and bathhouse for the property!

Operations Manager

A white curly-haired dog sitting in a grassy area on a hillside overlooking a mountain lake with steep rocky slopes in the background.

Baxter

Baxter is our pup! He will likely join on hikes and adventures. He is very well trained and has limited access inside the cabin as he is primarily our working dog. He is an Australian Cattle dog and Standard poodle mix, a Cattle-Doodle!

If you are uncomfortable with dogs please let us know during the booking process and we will ensure he is not on the property during your stay.

Adventure Pal

A wooden house on a hill surrounded by green pine trees, with a balcony and large glass windows.

Bel’s family built the cabin in 2014 as a basecamp for adventure. It is a place for people to connect to themselves, nature, and loved ones. We are excited to open the doors of this special place for other to enjoy.

Situated just above 10,000’ and ½ a mile from the West Maroon Trailhead, it is the ultimate destination for those hiking from Aspen to Crested Butte. With lush forests, endless wildflower fields, waterfalls with crystal clear pools, and emerald lake just over the hill. Join us to experience what makes this place special.