Hiking & Trekking Tours & Trips in North America

What our customers ask about Hiking & Trekking Tours & Trips in North America

• What are the best times of year for hiking in North America's national parks?

  Weather patterns and accessibility shape the ideal hiking seasons across North America's diverse regions. Alaska draws hikers from June to August when daylight stretches up to 20 hours and temperatures stay mild, ideal for trails like Harding Icefield. The Southwest parks including Zion and Bryce Canyon see their best conditions in spring (March-May) and fall (September-October) when daytime temperatures remain comfortable for hiking. Summer brings intense heat while winter offers unique perspectives but requires additional preparation. As one TourRadar traveler noted about their September Canadian Rockies trip: "We were lucky with fine weather and good wildlife sightings."

• What fitness level is required for North American hiking tours?

  Different tours cater to varying physical abilities from leisurely walks to demanding treks. On Alaska's Kenai Peninsula Exit Glacier provides paths for different skill levels with elevation changes between 500-1000 feet. More challenging options like Mount Marathon in Seward push hikers with over 2000 feet of climbing. Most tours expect participants to handle 5-8 miles of daily walking on uneven ground. A TourRadar traveler shared about Alaskan trails: "The hiking was challenging but worth every ounce of energy as you are rewarded with some of the most beautiful scenery imaginable."

• Where do you stay during multi-day hiking tours in North America?

  Lodging ranges from tent sites to upscale wilderness lodges. The Alaska Seward Camping Adventure places guests in campsites near Resurrection Bay while other programs like the Southwest National Parks tour use established properties such as Bear Mountain Lodge in Gila National Forest. Many itineraries blend accommodation styles giving travelers both outdoor immersion and creature comforts. One TourRadar traveler commented on their Alaska experience: "We had fun at camp - great location great camping equipment with durable tents and good sleeping mats."

• How many miles do you typically hike per day on North American tours?

  Daily distances typically span 5-12 miles (8-20 km) depending on the tour's difficulty rating. Fresh Adventures' Banff program features daily walks of 10-18 km with approximately 2000 feet elevation gain over 3-6 hours. The Wildland Trekking Lassen experience includes routes like Burstall Pass at 6 miles with 1100 feet of climbing. According to a TourRadar participant: "Our Alaska hiking tour averaged about 7-8 miles daily with spectacular views of glaciers and mountains making every step worthwhile."

• What wildlife might you encounter while hiking in North America?

  The continent's trails offer rich opportunities for wildlife observation. Yellowstone visitors often spot grizzly bears black bears elk and bison. Denali National Park provides chances to view wolves Dall sheep moose and caribou from safe distances. A TourRadar traveler reported: "We had a couple of close encounters with black and grizzly bears which was a real treat all from the safety of the minivan" during their Alaska experience. Guides provide safety protocols for wildlife encounters at all locations including stays at places like Kayenta Monument Valley Inn.

• How many people are typically in a hiking group?

  Tour operators maintain small group sizes usually 8-12 participants plus guides to ensure personal attention and reduce environmental impact. Fresh Adventures' Yukon expeditions exemplify this approach allowing flexibility in route choices and pace. A TourRadar guest staying at Red Feather Lodge shared: "Nice group of people 10 with the leader 11. Happy with accommodation breakfast and facilities where we stayed."