Stress-Free Treks: Hiking With a Tour Company
Although we can’t speak for all hiking tour companies, there are undisputed benefits when hiking with The Bruce Tour compared to self-organized treks. We arrange the shuttles, meals, and accommodations, creating a stress-free experience. The three biggest concerns when planning a hiking tour are convenience, safety and value. Hiking with tour companies like The Bruce Tour checks all those boxes and more…
Logistics
Whether it’s car to car, out and back, private shuttle, etc. hiking tour companies have been there and planned that. Some areas, like those on the Bruce Trail, have limited or no parking. Picture it – a long day of trekking, you’re mentally and physically exhausted, maybe you’re starting to develop a blister or two, and food is definitely on your mind. As you approach the trail end, you see bell tents already pitched, the soft mattresses inside are beckoning you, or you spot a car waiting to pick you up and take you immediately to your comfortable accommodation – it’s an instant stress reliever! Hiking tour companies worry, so you don’t have to.
Luggage Transfers
Hiking with luggage can be a huge hassle. Self-organized hikes give only two options: carry your weight or learn to live without it. Weight is an important factor when planning a trek. Heavy packs can make the journey difficult and lead to long-lasting injuries. Lighter packs means a more comfortable hike, enabling travelers with back problems, etc to join the trek. Hiking with a tour company, like The Bruce Tour, allows hikers to focus on the current day’s necessities by providing luggage transportation to the next destination. Travel with increased comfort when you bring items like extra clothes, shoes, or a bottle of wine.
Food
Nothing beats a freshly prepared meal, especially after a long day of hiking! The Bruce Tour provides a culinary experience as you hike the Niagara Escarpment, like campsite dining with fresh ingredients. Click here to check out our blog on What is a Bruce Tour Wilderness Culinary Experience?(opens in a new tab) There’s no asking where to eat or what to cook, hiking tour companies take care of it all.
Accommodations
Due to recent COVID restrictions, lodging can be especially hard to find. Accommodations in close proximity to trail-ends will book up quickly. When using hiking tour companies, hotels and campgrounds are booked in advance and reviewed, so you’re guaranteed a comfortable night’s sleep. Here at The Bruce Tour, we even prepare bell tents as part of the accommodations. These glamping facilities increase comfort while eliminating time spent setting up camp. As with many trails, the Bruce sections are long, so time is precious when trekking. Sleeping in a cozy bed after a day of trekking will allow you to wake up rested, ready for another day.
Availability
Though hiking tour companies offer less flexibility when booking, they do offer treks at ideal times based on experience. If specific dates are needed, The Bruce Tour offers private hike options, ideal for groups or celebrations. We love hosting annual hiking reunions. There is even the option of being put on a waiting list if tours are sold out.
Personal Achievement
No feeling matches that of a solo journey where you overcome great obstacles all on your own. However, hiking with a tour company provides an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. You may have never been able to hike over 80 kilometers in 4 days without the motivation of your guide or fellow hikers. Some may be faster than others, but your helpful guide can keep people motivated and make sure everyone is set up for a successful hike.
Education
Speaking of guides, here at The Bruce Tour, we’ve trekked the trail numerous times and we want to share our knowledge with you. Most hiking tour companies feel the same way. You’ll have access to inside knowledge and receive a crash course on hiking, without the final exam.
Safety
Safety in numbers. Hiking tour guides should have first aid experience and provide special equipment, like safety beacons, during your trek. Safety protocols should be established and hiking tour companies are usually familiar with local areas, facilitating rapid emergency care. Though most journeys end with no incident, your safety is first priority here at The Bruce Tour.
Value
Organized hikes can save time, decrease stress, and provide the best group prices available. Not to mention the benefits of having a tour manager who cares about your personal experience. If something does go wrong, the manager is there to help. Everything isn’t on you, and for many, this aspect of hiking with a tour company has no price tag.
Multiple day hikes provide a true wilderness experience. However, these can be intimidating to plan as a solo traveler. So, before going at it alone, consider hiking with a tour company that is focused on your safety, experience, and the trip value. The Bruce Tour does just that and more, we’re ready to help you plan your next adventure! Click here to contact us today!(opens in a new tab)