Guides are our most valuable asset.

 

 

Training: Every year we require our guides to complete a rigorous training program that encourages them to hone their skills in the wilderness. Training generally begins in early March and continues throughout the season.

 

We frequently discuss new species of animals and plants, share experiences on the trail, and dig for historical facts relating to all sections of the Park. By constantly learning new information, our guides never get stale and our tours only get better.

 

The Truth: Our guides are provided with the most recent and accurate information we can find, but sometimes a question may go unanswered. Why? Well, we believe that it is better to say, "I don't know, but I'll ask some of the other guides for you." Making something up just to provide an answer, just doesn't cut it around here. So, though it is rare, don't be surprised if you stump the guide. In fact, consider your questions valuable learning tools. They keep our guides on their feet and forever learning!

 

Praise: Letters pour in throughout the season complementing our guides. Mothers tout their childrens renewed interest in science and the great outdoors, fathers profess of "the best part of our vacation", and couples talk about romantic moonlit strolls on the Park's highest peaks. What ever your experience, please share it with us. We enjoy hearing of exciting times on the trail. Send your letters to: American Hikes, Inc. Attn: Praise, P.O. Box 2696, Bryson City, NC 28713.

 

Family: At American Hikes you'll see many of the same faces year-after-year. We don't believe is high turn over, instead we support our team like a family. We push them to reach for the next phase in the life -- whatever that may be. In many cases we hire highly outgoing and sometimes over qualified guides that move on to bigger and better things. What a great feeling to be a part of other's dreams. You should know, that you too are a part of our lives. Without out our guests, none of this would be possible.

 

What more can we say. The best! That's right our guides are the best people we'd put out on the trail. They come from all walks of life, backgrounds, ages, and interests. Some are teachers. A few are students. All of them are focused on creating a memorable experience for each of our guests and opening everyone's eyes to the past, present, and future found in America's National Parks. Take a walk with one of them, and you'll discover a new perspective on life.