Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions, we have answers

What we provide:

  • Transportation to and from (2) locations in Nelson.
  • Small snacks and water available (bring your own water bottle)
  • Expert and local guide
  • Interpretive tour
  • Hiking poles
  • Bad Jokes
  • Good times

How do I know if this trip is for me?

  • Some of our tours focus more on sightseeing while others might require a higher level of fitness. Guests should have a certain level of fitness to participate in most trips, but we will always ensure that the tour caters to everyone’s needs. We strive to offer a well-balanced tour with lots of opportunities to take photos, soak in the views and enjoy your surroundings to the fullest, not race you to the top of a mountain. Below is a gauge of the tour difficulty ratings.
  • We also offer ‘Private Tours’ so you can customize your own tour to suit you or your groups needs.

Difficulty Ratings

EASY:

  • Mostly sightseeing
  • Small walks to scenic locations
  • Up to 75m-elevation gain
  • Some uneven ground and short up’s and down’s
  • Travel in well-established areas

MODERATE:

  • Sightseeing and short hikes to scenic locations
  • Up to 250m-elevation gain
  • Introduction to steeper terrain
  • Travel on well groomed, established trails

ADVANCED:

  • Sightseeing and steeper hikes to scenic locations
  • Up to 500m elevation gain
  • Travel on well groomed, established trails
  • Big rewards

What do I need to bring?

Mother nature likes giving us a surprise from time to time, so coming prepared for any type of weather is always a good idea. The tour van will have tons of space to store your belongings so having a bit of extra layers or food is always a good idea and can be stored if they don’t end up being used.

Here is a list of items we recommend to bring with you on your tour (and we are happy to answer any other questions you have on this subject)

  • Sturdy shoes/boots (no flip flops, Birkenstocks, etc. on trails)
  • Water bottle (there will be a place to fill them up if needed)
  • Raincoat layer (less bulky the better)
  • Small backpack (to carry on trails)
  • Extra warm layer(s)
  • A hearty lunch (small snacks will be included as well as a morning bakery stop to fuel up)
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Swimsuit (if applicable)
  • Camera!

Is there an age requirement?

No, but it is important to keep in mind that all of our tours require walking/hiking anywhere from 20 minutes to 3.5 hours with a group of up to 10 people. Guests should have a moderate level of fitness to participate.

What if I have physical limitations or don’t want to hike uphill?

We offer ‘Private Tours’ that we can customize to specifically meets your needs. We are happy to design a tour that focuses more on sightseeing and indulging in local culture. Our Slocan Valley Tour is our ‘Easiest’ tour and features only two small walk/hikes of 30 minutes or less.

What are the tour group size(s)?

Our tours have a maximum of 10 guests and a minimum of 2. If travelling solo, please contact us for a ‘Private Tour’.

Do you still run the tours in the Rain?

Yes, some of our adventures are actually really fun in the rain. Walking through a temperate Old Growth forest in the clouds is a wonderful experience.

What is your cancellation policy?

We understand that things come up so we offer a 24 hour cancellation policy. We can also re-schedule or reserve your credit for another tour, at a different date/time.

Where do I sign a waiver form?

When you start your trip you will be required to fill in a Waiver Form to start the tour. You can also print and fill one in (on this website) and bring it with you to save time. For participants under 19 years old, it is required to have a waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian prior to participating on tour. If the parent or legal guardian isn’t going on tour the participant must bring a completed waiver when arriving or fill one in before departure. Please read and ensure entire form is printed off (signatures at the bottom are a MUST).

If you have any other questions, or you would like to make a booking,
please email us @ info@westkootenayadventuretours.com

Thank You For Visiting!