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FAQ
Get Informed
WHAT DO I BRING FOR A GUIDED HIKE?
Please wear comfortable shoes, preferably closed-toe. Sneakers and running shoes are acceptable, boots are not necessary. Bring rain jacket, poncho or umbrella, an extra layer for warmth (ie: fleece layer or sweatshirt) and sun protection-either hat or sunglasses. Please also bring any personal medications including inhalers or epi-pens. Bring a 1-liter bottle of water per person. Bring a day-pack to carry your items, if you have one. Bring your smile and zest for adventure!
WHERE WILL I MEET MY GUIDE?
You will either meet your guide in the Town of Front Royal and follow them in your own vehicle to the trailhead or meet at a convenient location either in Shenandoah National Park or Elizabeth Furnace area of George Washington Jefferson National Forest. If you require transportation, that can be arranged for an additional fee as long as our shuttle is available.
MAY I BRING MY PET?
Yes! We love hiking with our four-legged friends; however, not eveyone does, so we offer this option as a Private Guided Hike.
Please note that certain trails and sections within Shenandoah National Park do not allow dogs and selection of hike will be made accordingly.
Please be prepared to keep your dog leashed and to carry out any doggie-waste in accordance with Leave No Trace Principles. We also recommend that you carry water and food for your pet in your day pack.
WHAT IF ITS RAINING OR SNOWING?
We hike in all kinds of weather - including rain and snow. If Next Bend Adventures deems the conditions unsafe for hiking or driving (e.g. flooding, lightning, ice) or access to trails are closed (e.g. Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park is closed) then we will cancel the trip and provide a full refund or allow you to reschedule the trip at your convenience.
DO YOU ACCOMODATE SPECIAL NEEDS AND PERSONS WITH PHYSICAL LIMITATIONS?
Yes! We recommend booking a private hike so we can customize the trip and distance to meet your needs. During our Scouting careers we included scouts and parents with varying abilities, both physical and intellectual. We are committed to providing access to the outdoors to everyone!
HOW FAR AWAY ARE THE HIKES?
Most of the hikes / trail heads are within an hour of the Town of Front Royal.
Backcountry backpacking excursions within Shenandoah National Park may be up to hour and 45 minutes away (if the adventure is venued in the south district of the park).
WHAT IS THE CANCELLATION POLICY?
For all Guided Hikes, the trip cost includes a 15% non-refundable administrative fee. Hikes may be rescheduled once without penalty. Hikes may be cancelled up to 1 week before the trip for a refund (minus the 15% fee). Within 1 week, a 50% refund will be offered. Within 48 hours, a refund will only be offered if Next Bend Adventures cancels the trip due to severe weather.
WHAT HAPPENS IF THERE IS AN EMERGENCY DURING THE HIKE?
Your professional guide is trained to respond to emergencies. Each guide will carry a group wilderness first aid kit, a satellite communication device, emergency overnight gear, extra water and food, map, compass and have an prepared evacuation plan.
Please share health information, physical condition including limitations and any other concerns during the booking process so that your guide may prepare appropriately.
We do live by the Boy Scout Motto: Be Prepared!