Difficulty "BOOT" Rating
- 1 Boot = A moderately easy walk, on pavement or on trails. No significant difficulty with hills.
- 2 Boot = A moderate walk in any setting with some difficult terrain, one or two moderate to substantial hills or steps.
- 3 Boot = A more difficult walk. Most likely in a natural setting with rougher paths and steeper or hilly inclines. Participants with certain health problems should take caution.
- 4 Boot = A very difficult walk. Many steep hills or high altitude trails, or very rough, uneven terrain, steep or unstable inclines. Distance is normally greater than 8 miles. Not suitable for any person who is not in good health.
What should I wear?
Upper Body: Dress yourself in several thin layers. This way, you can strip off layers if you feel too warm. Choose a soft material that absorbs sweat (like cotton) for the layer next to your skin. For your outer layer, try a light, breathable windbreaker. Also, toss a sweatshirt into your pack.
RECOMMENDATION: A neck scarf is a great way to regulate your body temperature.
Pants: Personally, I prefer leggings or long pants. Long shorts in warmer weather are an option. I always wear pants … many things can scratch legs:)
Footwear: You'll also need a sturdy, comfortable pair of hiking boots OR walking shoes designed for off-road terrain. Be sure to break them in gradually by wearing them around the house before you take them on the road. Invest in a good pair of socks to protect your feet from blisters. We are not climbing Everest - but you want to be comfortable and have good support and traction.
Backpack: Be sure to bring a pack to hold any of your heavier items (cameras or extra clothing).
Snacks: If you tend to get peckish on tours be sure to bring a snack or packed lunch.
ALWAYS BRING A BOTTLE OF WATER WITH YOU FOR THE TOUR!
RECOMMENDATION: A neck scarf is a great way to regulate your body temperature.
Pants: Personally, I prefer leggings or long pants. Long shorts in warmer weather are an option. I always wear pants … many things can scratch legs:)
Footwear: You'll also need a sturdy, comfortable pair of hiking boots OR walking shoes designed for off-road terrain. Be sure to break them in gradually by wearing them around the house before you take them on the road. Invest in a good pair of socks to protect your feet from blisters. We are not climbing Everest - but you want to be comfortable and have good support and traction.
Backpack: Be sure to bring a pack to hold any of your heavier items (cameras or extra clothing).
Snacks: If you tend to get peckish on tours be sure to bring a snack or packed lunch.
ALWAYS BRING A BOTTLE OF WATER WITH YOU FOR THE TOUR!
What is the walking pace? Do I have to be a fit?
Our Hikes/Walks average from 2.5 to 4 miles in distance with a break at the halfway point for the longer tours as well as several rest stops for tour narration or photo opportunities. We generally allow 1 hour per every 2.5 miles (2.5 mph speed) of walking. This does not include the time we estimate for scheduled breaks and photo stops.
People, in general, tend to walk a bit faster than this - so we take it as it comes and our goal is simply to maintain a minimum speed of 2.5 mph. In most cases, we are not “strolling”. We are walking at a relaxed but steady pace.
Note: This is simply a guideline and we are happy to customize a tour if you are all one group.
People, in general, tend to walk a bit faster than this - so we take it as it comes and our goal is simply to maintain a minimum speed of 2.5 mph. In most cases, we are not “strolling”. We are walking at a relaxed but steady pace.
Note: This is simply a guideline and we are happy to customize a tour if you are all one group.
How is the tour conducted?
We provide and overview of the planned tour prior to our departure on the tour. There will be designed stops along the tour for narration by your guide. In addition, on most tours we will have a midway break/rest/photo opportunity time. However, there are always opportunities for photos on on the trails! We listen - so we always remind our guests to speak to us, ask us questions and to let us know if you need a break. Please read our notes about the Walk Pace to get a full understanding of what you can expect in terms of pace.
Can I pay with a credit card?
PAYMENT IS BY CREDIT CARD OR CASH or Corporate approved Check. Cash payments are collected at the beginning of the tour prior to departure (large group tours require prepayment). It is recommended you come 15 minutes early to check in and to complete your waiver.
What is your cancellation Policy?
If you booked a tour and need to cancel, 3 day prior notification is required so that others may fill your space on the tours. Lack of proper notification will require that your tour fee be paid in full as noted on your invoice. Invoices are sent no matter what payment method.
Tours will be rescheduled if there is heavy rain or inclement weather. This is usually only determined upon tour departure time (weather can change quickly so we make this call pretty close to departure time).
Tours will be rescheduled if there is heavy rain or inclement weather. This is usually only determined upon tour departure time (weather can change quickly so we make this call pretty close to departure time).
What happens if we are late?
Tours leave PROMPTLY at their scheduled time (time is provided when you call to book your tour). It is imperative you arrive 15 minutes early to check in and to pay for your reservation. A late departure will affect your total tour time. We can not make up for late departures as this will run into our other scheduled tour times.
Are your tours appropriate for Children?
We offer great options for the whole family! Best age range is 7 and up and young adults LOVE our tours! Call us to discuss options for your family! We do have some options for younger children or if parents are backpacking infants. Please call.
Will there be restrooms available?
There are some restrooms available depending on the specific tour. Be sure to ask when you book your specific tour.
Do you allow Dogs on the Trail?
As much as we would like to cater to dog owners (we are die-hard dog owners) we can not offer tours that include dogs unless they are a licensed guide dog with proper certification provided.
Do you sell Gift Certificates?
Gift Certificates can be requested via our contact page. The certificate will be emailed to you via a PDF document which can be printed out and placed in an envelope. You will then be instructed to send a check to validate the certificate. Certificates are valid for one year from date of purchase. Please be sure to indicate if the gift certificate is for one or more people.