FAQ
Questions, answered.
Everything we've been asked about Altitude Academy programs — and the honest answers. If you don't see your question here, just reach out.
About Altitude Academy
- What is Altitude Academy?
- An outdoor mentorship practice based in North Lake Tahoe, California, led by Al Travaglini. We run small-cohort programs — both in-person and online — that combine real adventure and structured reflection to build self-awareness, leadership, and emotional resilience.
- Who is this for?
- Adventurous young adults, families, working professionals at transition points, and anyone who wants to grow through real challenge with a guide. No outdoor experience required for any program.
- How is this different from therapy?
- This is mentorship, not therapy. We focus on growth, leadership, and skills-building rather than clinical mental health work. If what you need is therapy, Al will happily refer you to someone who does that.
- How is this different from a retreat?
- Retreats are typically one-off experiences. Altitude Academy programs are designed for sustained work over weeks or an entire session, with structured curriculum, accountability, and real outcomes. No vision boards.
Summit to Self (online cohort)
- How long is the program?
- 12 weeks, fully online. We meet weekly as a group and you have regular 1:1 time with Al.
- How many people are in a cohort?
- Maximum 5 participants per cohort, always. Small enough that nobody disappears, big enough to learn from peers.
- What's the time commitment each week?
- Approximately 3 hours per week — a 90-minute group session plus reflection and reading. You get out what you put in.
- What if I can't make a live session?
- All group sessions are recorded. You're expected to show up live when you can, but life happens — you won't be penalized for missing one.
- Is there an in-person component?
- Optional. Cohort members can join an integration weekend in Lake Tahoe at the end of the 12 weeks. Travel not included.
- What's the cancellation and refund policy?
- Full refund if you cancel more than 20 days before the cohort start date. 50% refund if you cancel between 10 and 20 days before the start date. No refund within 10 days of the start date. The same policy is shown on the Stripe checkout page before you pay.
- When does the next cohort start?
- The next Summit to Self cohort begins June 1, 2026. Spots are limited to 5 participants — apply early to secure yours.
Seasonal In-Person Sessions
- Where are sessions held?
- Throughout North Lake Tahoe, California. Specific venues vary per session depending on conditions and activity focus.
- Do I need outdoor experience?
- No. We design sessions to meet people where they are. First-time riders and seasoned adventurers both have room to grow.
- What's included in the session price?
- Mentorship, all guided activities, equipment for most activities, daily yoga and reflection sessions, and meals for multi-day sessions. Travel to/from Lake Tahoe is not included.
- What happens if weather cancels a session?
- {{PLACEHOLDER — Albert to confirm the policy. Typical outdoor program answer: we reschedule or credit you toward a future session.}}
- Are sessions appropriate for families?
- Yes — some sessions are specifically family-oriented. Let us know what you're looking for and we'll match you to the right program.
Pricing & Logistics
- How much does everything cost?
- Summit to Self: $4,500 per cohort. In-person session pricing varies by session length and group size — get in touch for specifics.
- Are there payment plans?
- {{PLACEHOLDER — Albert to decide whether to offer this.}}
- How do I pay?
- All payments run through Stripe checkout — secure, PCI-compliant, and supports cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.
- Is there a waitlist if a cohort is full?
- Yes. Get in touch and we'll add you to the waitlist for the next cohort.
Didn't see your question?
Ask Al directly