We got our start in 1985 in Billings, Montana, where our early focus was on bike tours in and around the Rockies. As we expanded further into our backyard, we introduced multi-sport outdoor adventures to Yellowstone, Grand Tetons, Costa Rica, and eventually, the world.
For decades, our guests have hiked, biked, kayaked, and ziplined across some of the most beautiful places in the world. We’re at our best when we veer off the beaten path to reveal hidden gems that the everyday traveler may never see on their own. We make going the extra mile for our guests part of the way; creating special “wow moments” that we hope they’ll never forget.
We believe adventures in the great outdoors have the power to help us feel fully alive and reconnect with what matters most – our family, our friends, nature, and ourselves. This belief powers everything we do.
For us, the joy that comes with experiencing the world outside our doorstep never gets old. We’re proud to create and deliver adventures of a lifetime where the toughest part is going homeSM.
United by the belief in the ability of travel to create inspiring, life-changing moments, Active Adventures (HQ in Queenstown, New Zealand) and Austin Adventures (HQ in Montana, USA) joined together in July 2021 to create a world of opportunities for global travelers. The partnership will enable more adventure travelers to benefit from a wider range of global destinations and experiences. Both companies specialize in small group adventure trips, off the beaten path, with a personal touch.
For several years, our product offering has included extensive family vacation options. In 2022, we were approached to be a charter member for the Family Travel Association (FTA) Certification Program. We partnered with the FTA to develop and set standard requirements for other tour operators to become a certified FTA tour operator. This process included having every aspect of our trips and customer experience audited by a trusted third-party expert in family travel. We ensure every aspect of our family vacations is planned with your experience in mind; meaning all you need to do is show up and make memories!
Our global team is united by a single purpose: to guide our guests in building meaningful connections with each other and the world around them. We focus on ensuring our guests feel like they’re the most important thing – because they are! That’s why we’ve kept our group sizes small (with the industry-leading 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio) and our team is agile and prepared to take on anything that may occur when exploring the great outdoors.
Activity Level 1
What's The Rush?
I'm active and in decent shape and not looking to experience a place just through a bus window. I'm happy to slow down on the trail, soak it in and breathe in the fresh air.
Walking: 2-3 hours per day on gentle-gradient trails.
Other activities: On these trips, you'll be taking part in a range of other activities that focus less on building up a sweat and more on enjoying the finer things in life.
Activity Level 2
On the Move
Sure, I own some hiking boots, they're even worn in, but they don't go on long trips. I like my creature comforts and I like to give a range of activities a go.
Walking: 2-4 hours per day on gentle to moderate gradient trails. No multi-day hikes.
Biking: 1-3 hours, cruisy rides achievable by anyone, even first-timers. Kayaking: 1-3 hours, entry-level sea kayaking with specialist guides and stable boats.
Other activities (i.e. snorkeling): Always optional and very little exertion required. A highlight for many!
Activity Level 3
Earn Your Lunch
I stay active on vacation and love the feeling of relaxing after a busy day on the go. I season my trips with a little fresh exercise.
Hiking: Typically, 3-6 hours per day on well-formed backcountry trails. Expect some significant gradient inclines and declines.
Altitude: Your trip may include some moderate altitude areas, though these don't form the focus of the trip and are generally manageable.
Biking: 1-3 hours on well-formed paths or roads where you can expect some hills with moderate climbs and descents.
Kayaking: 1-3 hours, entry-level sea kayaking with specialist guides and stable boats.
Other activities (i.e. caving): Always optional and very little exertion required. A highlight for many!
Activity Level 4
Challenge Accepted
I'll let my trusty guides sweat the small things, so I can focus on my goal. Getting to the top, reaching the end, achieving my dreams! Sure, it'll be tough, but the views will be worth it.
Hiking / Trekking: Typically, 4–6-hour hikes with options for more, sometimes with limited or no vehicle support and nearly always with ascents and descents.
Altitude: Some trips at this level will reach a significant altitude. We are here to help you manage that and make your experience one to cherish for a lifetime.
Biking & Kayaking: If one, or both, of these activities are 'your thing,' there are trip options in this range, allowing you to be on two wheels or with a paddle in your hand for most of the day.
Activity Level 5
The Upper Limit
I'm ready to put in the hard work to reap the rewards. I'm a seasoned adventurer, not afraid to get my boots wet.
Trekking & Altitude: This is classic trekking, at altitude. Some might even call it 'expedition-style.' We've had folks from all walks of life achieve their dreams on our grade 5 trips, so if you're in for a challenge get in touch to find out if this is for you.
With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, you’ll enjoy a highly personalized experience with the perspective of an insider.
It’s so much easier to relax and enjoy your adventure when you have fun, caring guides who know the land, are experts in motivation, sweat all the details and whip up incredible meals, too!
When we say all inclusive, we mean it! Meals and snacks, activities, lodging, transportation, guiding services and more. Every detail is handled; all you need to do is show up!
Every aspect of your trip is thoroughly considered for your safety, from highly vetted vendors and well-maintained equipment to extensively trained guides and our seasoned operations team at headquarters.
Family travel and North American National Parks are our specialty. We’ve perfected our itineraries and sustained relationships for decades, ensuring you'll experience your destination to the fullest.
For us, the extra mile is never extra, it’s part of the way! Count on special touches throughout your trip that will amplify your experience. If we’ve done our job, they’ll have you saying “wow!”
