Tours

If you're already confident with the basics of map reading, this 2 day map and compass navigation skills courses takes you through the next steps: teaching essential compass work to allow the walker to explore ground away from footpaths and tracks.

On completion of this course participants should be able to plan and follow walks in the countryside that venture beyond paths and tracks.

• Topics covered include:
• Navigating using ‘coarse’ and ‘fine’ features
• Navigational strategies: aiming off, attack points, collecting features
• Understanding of contour features, both large and small, on the map and on the ground
• Judging distance accurately on the map and on the ground
• The planning of a safe walk or route involving walking on a bearing
• Employ simple relocation strategies when lost
• Use of compass to follow accurate bearings
• Understanding of the effects of fatigue, physical discomfort and extreme weather conditions
• Knowledge and application of the Countryside Code

Helmet provided, Rental Included, Lunch Included

This is a truly special experience, descending multiple steps of plateaus; Starting from the top of Bryce Canyon, we'll hike down one of the best trails in the park, but not back up. Instead we actually exit Bryce through a near hidden trail, where our bikes await. From here its a nearly all downhill track across the grey cliffs of the Cretaceous Formation, where our shuttle awaits at the bottom to take us back.

The best way to explore one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations. On this Phillip Island day tour, meet and view local wildlife at a multi-award-winning conservation park before reaching the highlight of the tour – the nightly Penguin Parade.

Start your first day trekking with a steady climb that takes you to the Marabout Sidi Chamharouch, a place where pilgrims come from across Morocco to heal the sick bewitched by evil spirits before continuing your trip south to the Toubkal Refuge. The next morning you will start to climb this beautiful peak. Toubkal is the highest in North Africa at 4167m, with impressive panoramic views. After lunch, head to Imlil to transfer back to Marrakech.

This great point-to-point hike takes us from Bear Lake into the lake-strewn canyon of Odessa Gorge and the Fern Lake drainage beyond. In just over a nine mile hike, much of which is gentle downhill, we’ll find ourselves in a world of mountain spires and alpine lakes beneath them. We’ll take in views of the Little Matterhorn,The Gable, Notchtop and Knobtop mountains, all near 12,000 feet or higher, as we make our way on this one-way route through the glacially carved canyon.

We’ll enjoy a great lunch along the way, we’ll have time for rest and reflection at any number of alpine lakes we pass, and we’ll enjoy a long and gradual descent for much of our journey - with a handful of steep sections just to keep us on our toes!

Fern Falls flows in an elegant free-fall some 60 feet at 6.6 miles or so, and from there we enter the canyon of the Big Thompson River, past Arch Rocks, and The Pool to the Fern Lake Trailhead and our waiting shuttle back to Estes Park.

Really experience Bryce Canyon with this in-depth tour, from the bottom to the top. Combine multiple trails, or spend your time along the rim while learning about the flora, fauna, geology, and history of Bryce Canyon National Park.

Looking for a more adventurous day hike? This prehistoric trail was improved by Seth Tanner in the 1880s to reach mining claims and was at one time part of the Horse-thief Trail. We will walk this steep trail through limestone and sandstone formations. If adventure-in-a-day is what you're after, join us for this one! This is our most serious day hike. We descend 2-3 miles down the Tanner Trail, which is known by avid Grand Canyon hikers as one of the more serious trails on the South Rim. Be ready to challenge yourself on an exciting hike and soak up quintessential Grand Canyon views!

While the Yarra Valley is a world-renowned wine growing region, wine is only half the story of this gourmet wonderland and our tour provides a fine blend of the very best of the region’s wines and other gourmet produce. Sample expertly made cheeses, chocolates, wines, and more on this Yarra Valley day tour in foodie heaven!

Walking in the footsteps of prehistoric Native Americans, we follow this ancient trail through the Bright Angel Fault. Bright Angel Trail offers a meandering descent into the Grand Canyon and is the easiest trail that goes far below the rim. There are multiple turn-around points which can make the hike 3 miles, 6 miles, 9 miles, or 12 miles round trip. The shorter and more moderate options are fantastic choices for families and for people who want to push themselves into the Canyon but would like water, bathrooms and shade to be available intermittently. And it's a great choice for more adventurous visitors who want to push themselves on a long, strenuous hike to Plateau Point for a stunning view of the Colorado River (12 miles round trip).

Originally used by native peoples of the Canyon, the Grandview Trail was rebuilt by miner Pete Berry in 1892 to access his Last Chance Copper Mine. Mining relics from a bygone era, far-ranging views and tremendous Inner Canyon scenery make this a perennial guide’s favorite. Our hike begins on a narrow trail with dizzying drop-offs (not a good choice for children or in winter.) We descend down through steep switchbacks with the Grand Canyon laid out in front of us like a painting on a monstrously large canvas. The Colorado River can be seen winding its way west in the distance, and the East Entrance Watchtower is visible on the rim 50 miles away. We continue down through pine, juniper and oak forests to a saddle that gives us a wonderful rest spot with views into the adjacent side canyon. Our trail begins a long traverse across a broad slope and eventually pops us out at Horseshoe Mesa, where Pete Berry's cabin is still standing and the relics of his Last Chance Silver Mine are visible today. With very ambitious groups, we can hike to the edge of the Mesa for stunning views or visit Cave of the Domes, the only cave in Grand Canyon National Park that visitors are allowed into (headlamps or flashlights required for the latter.) We'll enjoy a picnic lunch, take some amazing photos, and turn back to make our way back to the South Rim!

The Glacier Gorge Hike takes us into the justifiably very popular Bear Lake - Glacier Gorge part of Rocky Mountain National Park. This area features mountain scenery that is as breathtaking and beautiful as any in the world, literally. Glacier Gorge is a sub-alpine valley that drains several high mountain cirques. Our hike is characterized by dense forests, meadows, waterfalls, alpine lakes, glaciers and mountain cirques. Our hike takes us past Alberta Falls, a beautiful waterfall below treeline. We'll continue up a timbered valley with a tumbling creek to Loch Vale, a mountain lake at over 10,000 feet ringed by granite cliffs. We'll stop on the idyllic shores of Loch Vale and enjoy a picnic lunch. From here we have many options which include hiking to more lakes, continuing to views of glaciers, or returning back the way we came. Your guide will be ready to do whatever is going to make your day an unforgettable one!

Located in Utah, Goblin State Valley Park gets its name from the whimsical geological formations, referred to as “hoodoos” or “goblins” that have been carved by wind, water and time. Wander through the thousands of captivating and otherworldly hoodoos on your way to the Goblin’s Lair. Learn proper rappelling technique before you experience the thrill of rappelling 90-feet into the cavernous Goblin’s Lair. This trip is truly unique and suitable for families.

This is the best place to see wildlife, not only in Yellowstone National Park, but also in North America. Join us for a safari through the Serengeti of North America. Your expert guide will keep you safe, provide a picnic lunch, and answer whatever questions may arise in this living museum. Walk amongst the bison and pronghorn while listening to the river flow by.

Are you new to climbing? Or maybe you are an indoor climber keen to expand your horizons. Whatever your current level of experience this course will get you climbing safely and comfortably on real rock in the real outdoors. A great first step to a whole world of adventure.

Our Beginner Outdoor Rock Climbing Course is the perfect way to experience climbing on real rock for those with little or no prior experience. Being based in the Peak District we have easy access to some of the best rock climbing in the UK which means our experienced instructors can always find the right location and level of challenge for you. This course is therefore just as suitable for complete beginners who have never climbed before as it is for those who have previously climbed indoors and are looking to refresh their skills or get a taste of climbing on real rock.

Embarking into the world of Mountain Biking can seem daunting. Where do I go? What bike should I ride? How do I do it safely? On this fun and action-packed two day course we'll give you all the tools you need to begin Mountain Biking and then progress your skills onto the next level.

Our two day Beginner Mountain Biking course covers the core trail skills and is ideal for either complete beginners or for those wanting to progress their mountain bike experience from moderate off-road tracks to more technical intermediate trails. Our experienced guides and instructors will cover the fundamental trail riding skills of body position, footwork, bike control, line choice and cornering to get you tackling natural trail features both confidently and safely. We'll also cover the basics of bike set-up, maintenance and safety to insure you have the right knowledge to head out and further progress by yourself.

The Peak District has some of the best and most iconic 'natural' mountain biking in the country with a range terrain from gentle flowy tracks to rugged and remote trails. With the help and guidance of our knowledgeable local instructors we'll get you riding the right trails in the right conditions to progress your riding whilst ensuring you have a fantastic two days out in the hills.

Take your first underground steps into a Peak District cave system and learn about its creation over 300 million years, discover beautiful formations and fossils as well as evidence of mining dating back centuries. With vast chambers, roaring waterfalls and serpentine passages the caves and mines of the Peak District await your next adventure!

Our Beginner Caving Weekend offers an ideal first taste of underground adventure. Throughout the course of the weekend you'll visit three to four local caves. This activity is suitable for everyone, the systems we visit are mostly walking sized with some sections of stooping or hands-and-knees crawling.

Before setting out you'll be kitted out with over suit, wellies, kneepads, helmet and lamp and we'll make a plan to be safe underground, including taking a detailed look at the weather. Once you're underground and moving confidently you can choose to explore beyond squeezes and short climbs or try your hand at navigating under the expert supervision of our guides. Please note that this is not a typical 'come and try' tourist experience, but a full-adventure. You will get wet, it will be dark and you do need to have a good level of fitness.

A weekend of easy-going, family-friendly mountain biking in the beautiful Cairngorms National Park. Two days of cycling, setting off from the front door of Fraoch Lodge to enjoy some of the most stunning scenery the Highlands have to offer. Using the local Steam Railway at the start or the end of the day, these two easy days of biking explore our wonderful native Caledonian pine woods, beautiful lochs and open heather clad heath-land, all with the backdrop of the high Cairngorms.

Distance: 6 miles (9.6km) as a round trip

Elevation gain: 1400 feet (426.7m)

Duration: 3-6 hours

Ages: 12+

A true Yellowstone treasure, the Mount Washburn Trail is not only riddled with history along the path to its 10,243 foot (3,122m) summit, it also bears some of Yellowstone’s most awe inspiring scenery. With its 360 degree views, it is referred to as “the best seat in the house” which makes it possible to see the geographical boundaries of Yellowstone in every direction.

Distance: 10.2 mile (16.4km) as a round trip

Elevation gain: 2,000 feet (609.6m)

Duration: 6-8 hours

Ages: 12+

Sepulcher Mountain is one of two prominent peaks towering over the town of Gardiner Montana at the north entrance to Yellowstone National Park. Named for its tombstone-esque (or sepulcher) hoodoos on its northwestern false summit, this 9600 foot (2926m) peak calls out to the adventurous spirit of any hiker. This 10.2 mile (16.4km) out and back hike will test any seasoned hiker. With an elevation gain of over 2,000 feet (609.6m) to the summit, you’ll finish this hike knowing that you’ve been on a rigorous outing.

The Grand Canyon Daily Group Hike is an opportunity to enjoy Grand Canyon's most iconic and dramatic trail, South Kaibab, in a small mixed group with a flat per person rate. We meet at the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park and make our way to the South Kaibab Trailhead, where we begin our descent into the Grand Canyon. Our well-maintained trail winds its way down an exposed ridge with panoramic views and epic drop-offs. As we hike, your guide will explain the forces that created the Canyon as well as the incredible geologic story laid bare by the Canyon's sheer walls. There's literally nowhere else like this on Earth!

Our turn-around point is based on the abilities and desires of the group, but our tentative goal is Skeleton Point (6 miles round trip). At a wonderful picnic spot overlooking the Inner Gorge and the Colorado River, we'll enjoy lunch soak up the magic of the Canyon before turning back toward the South Rim. If we turn back earlier, we will enjoy lunch at one of the other amazing spots along this trail, of which there are too many to count!

Duration: 10-12 hours

On this tour, you will have an opportunity to see what many would describe as the crown jewels of Yellowstone National Park. The Lower Loop tour brings you to many of the park's most iconic thermal features, such as Grand Prismatic Spring and Old Faithful. Wildlife viewing is always a possibility as well.

You have been navigating the tracks and trails effectively for some time now and are keen to explore some of the more remote, wild and special corners of the UK. We can give you the skills to venture off-piste and explore the vast swathes of heather clad wilderness that hide some of this island’s best kept secrets. Your world is about to get a whole lot bigger, what will you discover?

A two day practical Peak District Navigation Course focused on advancing your skills to get you out exploring wilder and more remote parts of the UK. Aimed at navigators with experience who want to push away from the paths and tracks, our Intermediate Navigation Course offers a broader insight into more advanced navigation as well as essential skills for safety, planning and kit selection. You'll also cover the effects of weather, how to deal with emergencies and gain a valuable understanding of Britain's upland environment.

Beginning with a brief refresh of the basics we then look to develop effective compass skills including accurately following a bearing, back bearings, attack points and aiming off. We'll also cover practical techniques for holding bearings in poor visibility as well as identifying and negotiating dangerous and difficult terrain. Along the way you'll hone effective relocation strategies in a variety of terrains using compass techniques and contour interpretation.

Created and developed by Cornishman Frank Squibb in the spring of 1994 this is Cornwall’s best and most challenging coast to coast walking route and for experienced walkers.

The Smugglers Way takes you down forgotten drove roads and ancient lanes mixed with testing sections of wild and open moorland walking. Either side of Bodmin Moor deserted, hidden river trails follow stunning and unspoilt forested valleys and pasture as you follow the waters gushing off the high ground and charging down to the sea.

Not everyone has the time to walk a full week on the South West Coastal Path, you may want to fit in a short section of walking within a longer sightseeing holiday or if it’s your first time on a walking break you may want to play it safe and try a taster trip over two or three days.

Encounter Walking can provide this for you! We can operate a short section on any part of the South West Coast Path so if you are particularly interested in one area just contact us and tell us where you want to be and we will come up with the options.

The Arches & Canyonlands package combines two National Park 4X4 tours into one day. This combo includes the Shafer Trail, Tower Arch, and a delicious picnic lunch.

It begins high atop the Island in the Sky mesa and descends via the steep switchbacks of the Shafer Trail. We travel a portion of the White Rim for incredible views of the Colorado River corridor below. We stop to take in the sights, but there is little hiking.

The ancient culture of the Ancestral Puebloeans left evidence of their lives in the canyons. We make stops to investigate their mysterious and beautiful rock art before entering Arches National Park.

Tower Arch Arches National ParkOur professional guides add even more color to the iconic landforms and arches as we make our way to the Devils Garden for lunch.

After lunch, we start the backcountry Arches 4x4 tour near Doc Williams point. The trail climbs a steep, but short rock wall, cuts across a valley and meanders through sandstone fins and dunes. En-route we pass the Marching Men, Tower Arch, and the Eye of the Whale. We exit via an old cowboy trail and see Dinosaur tracks on our way back to Moab.

This 4X4 tour gets you into the area's top two attractions: Arches & Canyonlands National Park. These stunning parks are known for their impressive wild open spaces with the most awesome scenery in America.

Walk Britain’s most spectacular mountain pass. The 18 mile route through the Lairig Ghru was used by drovers, thieves and soldiers. It cuts right through the heart of the high Cairngorm splendour. From the high point its sides rise sheer for another 1500 ft to 4 of the 5 highest peaks in Britain – awesome scenery and a worthy challenge.

Drakesbad Guest Ranch is a secluded getaway lodge at the southeast end of Lassen Volcanic National Park, featuring 19 traditional lodge and bungalow units. Guests of Drakesbad spend their days hiking, horseback riding, swimming, fishing, or just relaxing.

Deliciously fresh and nutritious home-cooked meals are prepared by the Ranch Chef and are an integral part of the Drakesbad experience. All meals are open to the public and are by reservation only.

The scenic Warner Valley is a perfect backdrop for the traditional lodge rooms and cabins, and the award-winning service provided by the dedicated Ranch Hosts and staff is unmatched.

Rustic accommodations are surrounded by a variety of relaxing activities, including:

• Swimming Pool, naturally heated by the local hot springs
• Guided Horseback Rides
• Fishing
• Access to some of Lassen’s best hiking trails

Make the most of your walking holiday from a single base, your home to home while you’re in Pembrokeshire. Turn up, unpack your bags, and unwind in one of our hand-picked B&Bs and hotels. Each one is a gem. The Stay, Relax & Explore option is an ideal choice for self-guided walkers who prefer:

• A single base from which to explore local landscapes and views.
• Shorter walks with the option of being able to go back to the comfort of their room at any time.
• A slower-paced walking experience that offers the opportunity to really get to know their holiday location.
• Going car-free.

We will tailor each day’s walking to your needs. You can choose from half day walks (three to five miles), full day walks (from seven to 12 miles), or a mix of days and half-days.

When you’re planning your holiday it’s also worth adding in a rest day, or half-day. That way you have time to really get to know Pembrokeshire whatever your interests might be, from learning about the area’s distinctive heritage and culture, or sampling the excellent range of local food and drink.

Get in touch now for more details.

See Yellowstone’s most famous and iconic sites including: Old Faithful Geyser, Yellowstone Falls, Grand Prismatic Spring, several erupting geysers, many colorful hot springs, bubbling mudpots, up-close wildlife sightings, a walk through the historic Old Faithful Inn, breathtaking views of Yellowstone Lake, and hikes within the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone! This tour is good for those who want a general tour of all aspects of Yellowstone National Park. On this tour, aside from stopping at all the major sites, we will take a series of small walks or hikes throughout the day, and we will stop for animal sightings where we will pull out high end spotting scopes and binoculars! We will also stop for a scenic picnic style lunch from a local deli at one of our many secret lunch spots!

Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime! Developed over thousands of years by wind and water, canyons provide an endless playground to explore. These natural obstacle courses provide plenty of unique and fun challenges to overcome which may include hiking, scrambling, rappelling, down-climbing and wading. Canyoneering may sound intimidating but with the support and guidance of a professional guide, canyoneering is a family-friendly adventure.