What it takes me to deliver guided hikes

For your information and understanding, below I have briefly outlined what it takes to deliver guided hikes including group guided hikes. The four steps are what I do to create and prepare before taking clients out.

The same principles would apply to private hikes too. The below steps are important to understand from a client perspective so that they can book my hiking trips in confidence.

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Guided Hikes – Step 1:

Planning

Firstly, I would envisage a hike that would be leisurely, fun and tailored to be enjoyable. An experience unlike any other.

Secondly, I would sit down with a paper map, plot the route including any points of interest.

Finally, I would measure the length of the route as well as the altitude and determine the type of underfoot trails.

Guided Hikes – Step 2:

First Walk

With my paper map and compass in hand, I embark on the hiking route.

I meander and manoeuvre along the trail, adjust the route, amend the route as I see fit for a more enjoyable and safe experience.

I often end up walking all day, even when it’s only a 4 hour walk just to create the best hiking route possible.

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Guided Hikes – Step 3:

Second Walk

Once I have created the route that I think is the most exciting, I would hike it the second time, but this time without too much map reading or analysing.

This time, I sense the feeling of what it would be like for my customers when they are hiking.

Would they enjoy it? Would it be exciting? Is the experience classed as not too tough?

Guided Hikes – Step 4:

Risk Assessment Walk

Once I am happy with the route and hiking experience, on the third walk I would run a full risk assessment, safety protocols, risk control, solutions and actions that need to be taken.

At this point, when I’m 100% satisfied, only then does the hiking trip materialise on my website and marketing.

From the planning stage to delivering a guided hike, it would take me three walks, detailed analysis and weeks of planning/preparation.

Now that you know what it takes to create and deliver a guided group day hike, you can book my trips in confidence.

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I aspire to help us appreciate nature’s wonders by inspiring a connection between people and the great outdoors. I use photography and video as communication tools for understanding and creating awareness across our natural environment and conservation.