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Please, Contact us with any additional queries that you have or call us at 604.730.2659 or toll free in North America at: 1.866.894.0220. Also, we suggest that you click on 'Request Detailed Itenerary' at the bottom of each trip description, for more info.
How fit do I need to be? How fit do I need to be? Our trips vary in difficulty but generally they are suited for fit-intermediate (sport level) to expert riders. A fit-intermediate rider is one who can ride 4-plus hours per day, for several days in a row. Inevitably there will be slower and faster riders in each group but from our experience the differences in ability work themselves out: some will simply enjoy the view for a little longer. If needed, riders can elect to skip a day's riding or a portion of it depending on logistics. You will get more enjoyment out of any trip if you are in good physical condition. The best advice we can offer is to follow the training suggestions in our "Before You Go" pre-departure information that we will send to you upon booking your trip. Further discussion with us will insure that you choose the trip that suits your level of fitness and are ready for your adventure. Please read our Ability Guide for more info. How technical are the trails? The difficulty of trails depends on the destination and type of trip. You will find detailed descriptions by requesting more information on the trip or by contacting us directly. On all of our trips we set out to feel the freedom of mountain biking, not to scare the participants. We start each trip with a comprehensive riding skills session on less technical trails and progress from there. What kind of bike do I need? The kind of bike that you need depends on the type of trip that you have selected: downhill, all-mountain or cross-country. Contact us for more info. What do I need to bring? All you need to bring besides your riding spirit is a mechanically sound bike, related bike equipment and personal gear. We will send you a detailed clothing and equipment list in your "Before You Go" pre-departure information package. What kind of accommodation can I expect? We use a variety of accommodations on our trips: family-run rustic mountain chalets, 4-star hotels, small-town motels and wilderness lodges. We choose our lodging based on comfort and location. In cities, we are often located in or near the old center part of town, while in the mountains we look for a nice view and the proximity to singletrack. Where available, a single supplement fee is required for those who ask for single accommodation. What is the food like? What if I have special diets requests? The meals provided are typical of the region. All breakfasts and dinners are included - except for one dinner per trip when you'll have the opportunity to sample the local fare on your own (on certain trips). We make sure that everyone eats well, guaranteed. We will try to accommodate any special diet requests you may have. Wherever you travel with us, you'll relax at the end of each day on a deck up in the mountains, on the shores of a secluded lake or on a patio at a local pub. What is the group size and eligibility? Our groups are between 6 and 12 participants, with 2 guides per group. Often, a third guide or locals will provide extra support throughout the trip. Our groups are kept small so that we can ensure that every participant is well looked after. Also, with this number, we can give each other space while riding, yet be sure that everyone is on the right track. Participants must be 18 and over, unless accompanied by an adult. What is included in my trip? Included on all trips: expert leadership, all accommodations, all meals (except lunches and one dinner on certain trips), airport transfers, a Big Mountain t-shirt, gratuities at inns and restaurants and detailed "Before You Go" pre-departure information. A variety of transportation types are also included depending on the trip: trains, ski lifts, float plane, helicopter, and shuttle vehicles. What is not included in my trip? Not included on trips: your bike and bike riding equipment, airfare, insurance of any kind, optional tipping for guides and local staff, excess baggage charges and items of a personal nature: snacks, alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc. We recommend that participants budget for $20 Canadian extra spending per day. Check out the 'Request more information on this trip' for more complete information on what is and is not included. Can you help me with my air travel arrangements and extending my trip? Yes, we would be happy to help you with arrangements if you decide to extend your trip before or after the Big Mountain adventure. You will however need to book your own flight to and from the city where the trip begins. What kind of information will I receive to prepare for my trip? Booked travelers will receive a detailed pre-departure information kit called "Before You Go." This package includes a gear list, tips on traveling with your bike and helpful information according to your destination to ensure that you are well prepared for the adventure. It also includes local weather, what to pack, currency conversions, shopping tips, important phone numbers - everything you need to know before you go! Should I buy travel cancellation insurance? Travel insurance is very strongly advised. With it, you will avoid the unfortunate loss of funds due to an emergency or illness of the participant or companion, or illness or death of an immediate family member. Some cancellation policies also provide baggage loss protection. Should I buy medical insurance? All Big Mountain participants are required to have medical insurance. We will ask you to fill out a Medical Release and Information form with your medical insurance policy information and general medical information. This information will be kept strictly confidential. What are the penalties for canceling my trip? If canceling, the following policy will apply: • 90+ days prior to your trip: Cancellation charge of $100.00 Canadian • 46-90 days prior to your trip: Cancellation charge of $550.00 Canadian • 0-45 days prior to your trip: Cancellation charge of 100% of the total cost of the trip Please purchase Travel Insurance to avoid loss of fund if cancellation is necessary. Can I rent a mountain bike? We offer limited high performance bike rentals at most of our locations. Please ask us for more information on what is available. Who are the guides? We know how important good leaders are in the enjoyment and success of your trip. We are proud to offer the best leaders available. They are your link to unforgettable riding, new cultures and new experiences. You will learn more from them than any guidebook. Their riding expertise, enthusiasm, language skills, environmental appreciation, cultural understanding, and safety training are unparalleled. Besides showing you secret singletrack, they will make sure your trip runs smoothly and safely. On all trips, a guide will lead, while another will act as the 'tail gunner.' Can I bring my bike on the plane? Yes. Major airline carriers consider your bike as one of two pieces of checked on luggage. In other words, bringing your bike is free. When flying domestically you might be charged. We will send you detailed information on packing you bike in our "Before You Go" travel planner upon booking your trip. Can you provide me with a reference from someone who has taken the trip that im interested in? Absolutely. We will be happy to give you contact information of people who have participated in the trip that you are inquiring about. How long will we be riding for each day? You'll typically spend four to five to seven hours on your bike each day depending on the trip and particular day. Please visit our Ability Guide for more information on the trip that you are interested in. Or, contact us to discuss exactly what you trip entails. Who travels with Big Mountain? Most of the participants are between the ages of 30 and 50. Older and younger travelers are also on our trips. You'll meet solo travelers and couples on your trip who represent a diversity of interests and occupations and share a common love for mountain biking, the outdoors and adventure travel. Participants come from all over the world. If I am traveling alone, can I have a private room or will you match me with a roommate? A limited number of single rooms are available on most trips for a supplemental fee. Please inquire with Big Mountain when signing up for your trip and let us know that you want the single supplement. If you do not request a single room we will then match you up with a roommate of the same gender. How long has Big Mountain been in business and who owns the company? Big Mountain Bike Adventures was founded in 2003 by Chris Winter. Chris' family operates the second oldest European bike tour company in North America, Cycleventures Bicycle Tours. Cycleventures boasts over 55 different routes throughout Europe and the world. They have been bringing clients to Europe since 1971. |
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