The Adventure Gene Reviews

onroute66 2026.09.02

     

Snow Camping and Snow Hiking. A huge thankyou to Tom and Maddie for a complete package of professionalism and quality of equipment . I am grateful for this 4 day experience that I’ve always wanted to do but not confident to do as a solo traveler. Melina x

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Reply from The Adventure Gene 2026.09.01

Thank you for the kind words Darryn, we certainly had a bit of everything on this trip! Enjoy the Overland Track next year 😊

Morris Prendergast 2026.08.30

     

Absoulutely amazing experience! Tom and Maddie were amazing guides and made sure we were safe and having fun the entire trip!

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Reply from The Adventure Gene 2026.09.01

Thank you Morris for sharing your experience! Tom and I are so glad that you enjoyed the trip. It was a pleasure having you 😊

Carolyn Bell (Carolyn & Phil) 2026.08.23

     

We recently completed the Introduction to Snow Camping trip in the Snowies and would highly recommend it. The trip was an amazing experience in very trying conditions, made possible by the expertise and guidance of very knowledgeable Gus & Tom, and excellent preparation & gear. Even in the cold, windy & snowy weather, where visibility was low, we were able to still get out and about to experience the snow-covered terrain and bag a peak – Dicky Cooper Bogong at just over 2,000 metres. The trip is not for the faint hearted – we carried all our gear up to our camp at White’s River Hut. The pack would have weighed about 15kgs so I recommend training with this in mind. Great learning experience and the scenery was amazing - well worth the effort.

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Reply from The Adventure Gene 2026.09.03

Thank you Carolyn! I'm glad you and Phil had a great trip. Thank you for contributing to the supportive group culture we had and making the most of the challenging conditions ☺️

Tom

Deanna 2026.08.18

     

Shout out to Gus - adventure guide extraordinaire. Caring, welcoming, helpful, compassionate, intelligent, highly knowledgeable about all things outdoors and lots of fun. Tom the owner is aspirational. Tom has a way of quietly bringing out the best in everyone who is lucky enough to cross paths with him. He is also extraordinarily caring, supportive and fun to be around. I've used several outdoor adventure companies, this one has been the best. Meticulously organised with the most knowledgeable guides who will support you in reaching your goals. I will be choosing The Adventure Gene for all my outdoor adventures from now on.

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Reply from The Adventure Gene 2026.08.19

Thank you Deanna! It was an epic trip and a privilege taking you out into the mountains ☺️

Tom

Louise C 2026.08.17

     

I recently joined The Introduction to Snow Camping trip August 2026. It was one of the best trips I have ever experienced. Everything was very well organised, great quality equipment supplied to keep us warm and safe. The meals provided were generous, nutritious and delicious, with a good variety of snacks for in between. Our guides Tom and Gus were absolutely amazing, passing on their knowledge and experience with a genuine commitment to making our trip memorable. Their support and encouragement was much appreciated. Thank you. I highly recommend this outdoor adventure.

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Reply from The Adventure Gene 2026.08.19

Thank you Louise! It was an awesome trip, and you absolutely made the most out of some challenging conditions.

Tom

Alison Harris 2026.08.15

     

We couldn't recommend the Snowies Intro to Snow Camping trip with The Adventure Gene more highly! It was beyond expectations in multiple ways, and we have come away with new skills, enthusiasm, confidence and ideas. The organisation from time of booking to the end of the walk was detailed, methodical, helpful and well communicated; it covered everything you need to prepare and plan. Questions were more than welcome and responded to with warmth as well as information. Expert knowledge levels of the area, the skills required for winter trips, ultralight gear, camping and packing tricks, delicious food and every other aspect were demonstrated over and over. It was easy to feel in safe hands at every moment, even in mountain weather. The gear quality was amazing!  Each item was carefully selected and did its job extremely well. We learnt so much from the generous sharing of information and experience. The quality of guiding by Tom and Gus was outstanding with extremely high levels of knowledge, but also sensitivity to the needs of each individual participant and sensitivity to the environment and culture of the mountains. And we had fun! Laughter and excitement and new experiences. We've come away with skills and knowledge that will open up further horizons for us. Ivan and I would do another TAG trip at the drop of a hat - it was a learning experience, an adventure, and a holiday.

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Reply from The Adventure Gene 2026.08.15

Thank you for the kind words Alison - it was a real privilege leading you through the mountains. The positivity you and Ivan brought to the group was infectious, and helped make it a truly fantastic week!

Tom

BrisbaneAlison 2026.08.14

     

Verified

The Adventure Gene - Intro to Snow Camping - FANTASTIC! We couldn't recommend the Snowies Intro to Snow Camping trip with The Adventure Gene more highly! It was beyond expectations in multiple ways, and we have come away with new skills, enthusiasm, confidence and ideas. The organisation from time of booking to the end of the walk was detailed, methodical, helpful and well communicated; it covered everything you need to prepare and plan. Questions were more than welcome and responded to with warmth as well as information. Expert knowledge levels of the area, the skills required for winter trips, ultralight gear, camping and packing tricks, delicious food and every other aspect were demonstrated over and over. It was easy to feel in safe hands at every moment, even in mountain weather. The gear quality was amazing! Each item was carefully selected and did its job extremely well. We learnt so much from the generous sharing of information and experience. The quality of guiding by Tom and Gus was outstanding with extremely high levels of knowledge, but also sensitivity to the needs of each individual participant and sensitivity to the environment and culture of the mountains. And we had fun! Laughter and excitement and new experiences. We've come away with skills and knowledge that will open up further horizons for us. Ivan and I would do another TAG trip at the drop of a hat - it was a learning experience, an adventure, and a holiday.

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Carlene Frank 2026.08.11

     

Great experience and definitely something different from normal hiking! There was lots of information provided before the trip about what to wear and bring, plus a pre-trip briefing where we went through our clothing and equipment, how to use everything and how to set up the tent and sleep system. I really liked that they provided ultralight camping equipment and winter clothing, so you didn’t have to spend a fortune buying everything yourself. All of the gear provided was in great condition. I learnt heaps about camping in the snow, staying warm and dealing with winter conditions. All the food was provided and was delicious! Maddie was super organised, energetic and a great cook. She also adjusted the itinerary based on the snow cover and weather conditions. One of my favourite parts was being cosy in the tent and waking up to snow falling outside. Such a cool experience and very different from any hiking/camping I’d done before.

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Reply from The Adventure Gene 2026.08.12

Thank you for the kind words Carlene ☺️ I'm so glad that you enjoyed the experience, liked the gear and learnt so much!

Maddie

Anthony Swan 2026.08.07

     

I went on ANOTHER Adventure Gene trip, this time, the 6-day winter Jagungal Wilderness snow expedition, led by the other half of the family company, Maddie. Such a special time! We did some great side trips even though Mt J itself was off the menu due to snow cover and weather. I had never camped in the snow before or used snow shoes, and I learned so many valuable skills. With the snow shoes we were able to get into some amazing terrain, even where there was a lack of snow cover. Great group and good company. And the food was yum! I am very happy to recommend The Adventure Gene’s extended guided hiking tours, having just completed the December 2025 8-day Snowies traverse along the K2K section of the Australian Alps Walking Track (AAWT) with guides Tom and Dan. As an experienced hiker who first visited the area 40 years ago, I was reassured by their detailed knowledge of the terrain, equipment, safety, navigation and nutrition challenges of a long traverse, plus their passion and care for leading us through the range of available wilderness experiences. I found the Adventure Gene’s focus on education is a great way to get updated on the latest ultra lite gear, digital navigation and approaches to sustainable wilderness adventure travel. The group and guides were the best fun and company. I had a great time and would definitely do more with these guys.

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Reply from The Adventure Gene 2026.08.12

Thank you for adding these photos and sharing your experience on our snow camping trip Anthony! It was great to have you back on another trip with us, and best of luck with all your hiking adventures coming up. See you around Canberra sometime! ☺️

Maddie

-------

Thank you for the kind words Anthony ☺️

We will remember that Mt Jagungal sunset for a long time!

Looking forward to hearing of your future adventures 😁

Tom

Sally King 2026.08.06

     

First time back country exploring. TheAdventuregene crew are a confidence boosting bunch. The food supplied was great! Great bonding experience for any corporate team getaway.

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Reply from The Adventure Gene 2026.08.12

Thank you for the kind words Sally and uploading some awesome photos! Glad to hear that you had a great trip and ejoyed the food ☺️

Maddie

Craig Dunn 2026.08.06

     

Highly recommended. With all the gear supplied, you simply have to turn up and experience the best of the snowies. Our guides Gus and T looked after us very well from expert guiding to gourmet dinners.

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Reply from The Adventure Gene 2026.08.12

Thank you for the kind words Craig. We're glad that you had a great time (and enjoyed the food!) 😁

Tearloch

Kate D 2026.08.06

     

My teenage son and I completed the 4-day Intro to Snow Hiking camp with 8 other hikers in July 2025 and it was absolutely amazing! I couldn't recommend it more. The guides were awesome (thanks Gus & T!!), the equipment supplied was first class (we barely needed to bring anything), the food was good, the hiking was heaps of fun in a beautiful landscape, and the experience overall was fantastic. Thank you The Adventure Gene for an incredible adventure!

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Reply from The Adventure Gene 2026.08.12

Thank you so much for the kind words Kate ☺️ I'm glad that you and your son enjoyed the trip. Can't wait to see what you guys get up to in the future!

Maddie

Marcus Stewart 2026.08.05

     

A awesome trip with a twenty something daughter . Great food , guides who went beyond expectation. The gear and systems to keep warm were great. Can’t recommend enough

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Reply from The Adventure Gene 2026.08.12

Thanks Marcus! I'm glad that you and your daughter had an awesome trip ☺️

Maddie

Krystal Hansen 2026.08.05

     

I can’t recommend The Adventure Gene’s intro into Snow Hiking & Camping highly enough! As someone who had never seen snow before and had absolutely no hiking experience, I was a little nervous going into the trip but it ended up being one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. Over the four days, I learnt so much while feeling safe, supported, and encouraged every step of the way. The course struck the perfect balance between teaching essential skills and creating an unforgettable adventure. A huge shoutout to our guides, Gus and Tearloch, who were absolutely outstanding. Their knowledge, patience, and passion for the outdoors made all the difference. They took the time to ensure everyone felt confident, answered every question, and somehow made even the toughest moments fun. Their enthusiasm was infectious, and they created such a positive and supportive group environment. If you’ve ever thought snow hiking or camping wasn’t for you because you’re a complete beginner, this course will completely change your mind. I left with new skills, amazing memories, and a newfound love for the alpine environment. Thank you to The Adventure Gene, Gus, and Tearloch for an incredible four days. I can’t wait to book another adventure!

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Reply from The Adventure Gene 2026.08.05

Thanks for such lovely feedback Krystal! We had such a blast getting to share the mountains with you and your sister. Hope you guys have a great time in NZ and that the snow there is even better!
Gus and T

Manuel Navarro 2026.07.30

     

I recently went on a 4-day hiking and camping trip to the Snowy Mountains. I'd never been camping before, never experienced snow, and hiking was quite new to me. All of my questions were answered before I booked the trip, which made me feel confident about joining. The group was amazing, and the guides, Gus and Lisa, were incredibly passionate, helpful, and always willing to explain everything. They were also amazing chefs! This turned out to be one of the best outdoor experiences I've ever had. It made me want to get out and explore even more.

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Reply from The Adventure Gene 2026.08.03

Thank you Manuel for your kind words. It was a joy to get to share the Australian Alps with you on this trip, we hope you got some amazing photos! Thanks again for joining us, and all the best on your future adventures.
Gus

Ilan Bloom 2026.07.27

     

Great experience from start to finish - professional and all-inclusive. Guides Lisa & Gus were friendly, knowledgeable and clearly love their job. Highly recommend, whatever your experience level.

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Reply from The Adventure Gene 2026.07.27

Thank you Ilan for such kind feedback. We had a great time in the mountains with you, thank you for your humour and energy.
All the best on your future adventures!
Gus

Liam D 2026.07.26

     

I went on the Snowies Intro to Snow Camping walk. It was a very enjoyable experience, and I would highly recommend The Adventure Gene to others. Our guides, Gus and Tearloch, were organised, very friendly, and experienced; they kept us feeling safe, even in the peak of winter during white-out conditions, and were good chefs! Talking about good chefs, the food was great, from breakfast to dinner. We had fantastic breakfasts, including pancakes and honey porridge, lunches, including delicious fried rice, dinners, including great curries, and delicious desserts, including tiramisu and apple crumble. The gear provided was also of high quality and in abundance. We were given amazing 4-Season tents, waterproof packs, warm sleep systems, reliable rain gear, great glove systems, and pretty much everything else. It was an incredible experience, visiting the huts, walking through the valleys, and learning new skills to aid in my future adventures!

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Reply from The Adventure Gene 2026.07.27

Thank you Liam for such kind words! It was awesome to have you on our trip, it is so awesome to hear about all your big plans for your future adventures. We can't wait to hear about what you get up to in the future, safe travels out in the mountains and all the best!
Gus and T.

Kirsten Dudley 2026.07.24

     

My recent 6 day snow camping trip with The Adventure Gene was great. Our guides Tearloch and Lucas were excellent. They were professional, supportive, fun, knowledgeable and always there for us. The gear they gave us was lightweight and just what we needed. The food was amazing, tasty and very considered. They made sure we were well nourished. Due to less snow cover than ideal they made changes to our itinerary which worked really well. We experienced excellent views and snowy landscapes. I've done a lot of hiking both independent and guided and learnt a lot from this trip. The whole organisation worked well to give us a special experience. Thank you to all.

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Reply from The Adventure Gene 2026.08.12

Thank you for the kind words Kirsten ☺️ I'm so glad that you enjoyed the trip and could learn a lot from T and Lucas.

Maddie

Susan F 2026.07.19

     

Verified

Great experience! Had a great time on the Into to snow camping trip. Our guides were welcoming, professional, fun and happy to share their knowledge and experience. Great group and I would encourage anyone who is thinking about joining a trip to do it.

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Tracy Black 2026.07.17

     

Just completed the 4 day Intro to Snow Camping trip and would highly recommend it for anyone who loves overnight hiking. Hiking in snow shoes and camping in the snow was a first for me and I found it challenging - but in a good way. Carrying the pack the first day and getting up to the required elevation certainly got the heart and legs pumping, but that’s what I was there for. Our two guides were magnificent, patient, knowledgeable and lovely people and the other 7 people in my group were amazing to be with. I had such a great time. If you’ve ever wanted to do this - TAG and the Intro hike is a great option.

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Reply from The Adventure Gene 2026.07.20

Thank you Tracy for such wonderful feedback. We had such a blast with you all up in the mountains. Can't wait to see what adventures you get up to in the future!
Gus