Quinn Emanuel Lawyers Conquer Andes in Annual Hiking Tradition

Quinn Emanuel, a prominent law firm, has established a unique tradition of sending hundreds of its employees on intense hiking expeditions annually. This ritual, which began in 1993, serves as both a rite of passage and a stress test for the firm's lawyers. Last month, over 250 employees traveled to Cusco, Peru, to tackle part of the Andes mountain range. Participants had two options: an 18-mile overnight hike through the Salcantay Pass, reaching altitudes over 15,000 feet, or an 8.5-mile trek to 14,000 feet.

Tigran Guledjian, a partner at Quinn Emanuel and co-chair of the firm’s national intellectual property litigation practice, described the hike as intense. Participants carry their own gear, including tents, sleeping bags, and food, emphasizing self-reliance and camaraderie. The tradition started when the firm's founder, John B. Quinn, took 15 legal analysts on a backpacking trip through Utah’s Coyote Gulch. Since then, the event has grown, with the team traveling internationally to renowned hiking locations.

Stephen Wood, managing partner of the firm’s Salt Lake City Office, noted that these hikes are not easy and challenge participants from various fitness levels. The hikes simulate the stress of legal trials, teaching employees to rely on each other during tough times. The event also brings together employees from different offices, fostering a sense of unity and shared experience.

Guledjian highlighted the parallels between overcoming challenges in nature and the courtroom, stating that the lessons learned in nature are helpful in litigation. The hikes are not mandatory, but roughly a quarter of the firm's workforce participates annually. Many workers contribute around $1,000 to cover trip expenses, while the rest is covered by the firm. Summer analysts are invited to join for free.

The hikes are not without risks. Participants have encountered bears, received park ranger citations, and faced extreme weather conditions. During a trip to Armenia, an intense thunderstorm required the team to be rescued by locals. The firm prepares workers for these dangers by providing a meticulously curated list of essential items. One of the longest hikes completed was 50 miles in three days in Iceland, including 25 miles of terrain in one day.

Guledjian emphasized that those who struggle the most during the hikes often have the most rewarding experiences. The camaraderie and support from colleagues create lasting friendships, sealing participants together in a crucible of shared hardship. This unique team-building exercise not only strengthens bonds among employees but also prepares them for the challenges they face in their legal careers.