Adventure travel - includes related articles on tour operators and how to get fit for a trip

Vegetarian Times, Nov, 1997 by Bevin Conn

Bicycling: You should be able to ride a bike comfortably for 20 miles, two days in a row. To get into that kind of condition, start pedaling either outside or on a stationary bicycle for 20 minutes and gradually increase the time you spend cycling.

Walking, hiking, snow-shoeing: Break in your boots ad get in shape at the same time. Walk or hike 3 to 4 times a week outside or on a treadmill with some incline.

Cross-country skiing: You'll need upper body strength and some serious cardiovascular fitness. Get on a cross-country ski machine for at least one-half hour or keep up a regular jogging program; start at 20 minutes and build up to 45 minutes--3 to 4 times a week.

Rafting and kayaking: Paddling requires endurance, along with a strong upper body and abdomen. Besides cardiovascular work, add abdominal strengtheners and weight work, as well as stretching.

RELATED ARTICLE: HOW TO PICK A GOOD GROUP

With adventure travel growing so rapidly, there are bound to be some out-fitters who are more skilled and reputable than others. Ask the following questions to learn which groups and trips are right for you:

How long have you been in operation?

A decent answer is at least 8 to 10 years.

What is a typical meal?

Well-established companies have detailed menus and should be able to address dietary concerns easily.

Are you guides trained in first aid?

Guides should be trained in CPR, Wilderness First Responder and Advanced Winter First Aid, if applicable.

What is a typical group size?

Size varies by company and type of activity. A good client-to-guide ratio is 7:1.

How is difficulty rated on your trip?

Make sure distance, altitude and weather, trial, road or water conditions are taken into account.

What is the daily mileage?

On most trips (excluding rafting and kayaking), the outfitter should offer mileage options.

What gear is provided and what will I need to bring?

The company should provide a detailed list of what you'll need to bring. Also, they should be able to offer recommendations for any gear you need to buy.

What is the cost?

Cost varies, but here are some quidelines: Five-day cycling inn trips range from $1,100 to $1,600; a five-day cycling or hiking trip with camping costs about $800; kayaking and rafting average $150 to $200 a day; six days of cross-country skiing and staying in inns run about $1,600.

What does the price include?

Most, if not all, meals should be included, as well as lodging ad guide services.

RELATED ARTICLE: CYCLING, SKIING, WALKING, RAFTING, KAYAKING: 10 OUTFITTERS WHO DO IT RIGHT

* ARTA River Trips has been operating with safety and the environment in mind since 1963. They offer six-day floats on the Idaho's Salmon River, complete with furious rapids, rock-walled canyons and hot springs; (800) 323-2782 or (209) 962-7873.

* For rugged excursions into the back-country, Adventures Afoot offers guided backpacking trips in the Rocky Mountains. Gourmet meals and foot rubs welcome you at day's end; (800) 294-8218 or (970) 586-3194.

* Backcountry is known for intimate first-class walking and cycling inn trips with stays at historic hotels or bed and breakfasts; (800) 575-1540 or (406) 586-3556.