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Bethel Adventure Tours

LOCAL GUIDES PROVIDE OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES THAT RESPECT THE LAND

Alex and Katy Carr, co-owners of Bethel Adventure Tours, guide people on how to safely enjoy outdoor activities and while encouraging careful observation of plants and animals, respectful use of the water and trails, and sharing information about the places they are exploring.

As a four-season recreational service offering active, privately guided excursions from Bethel, these tours can include hiking, mountain biking, paddling, snowshoeing, ski touring, winter fat biking, birdwatching, and nature trips.

“Our goal is to break down as many of the barriers to access as possible and allow people to experience the outdoors,” Katy shared. “We want to show them things they wouldn’t have noticed on their own, particularly animals and animal activity, as well as plant species, invasive threats, cultural uses and experiences, logging industry, human impacts on nature.”

Alex and Katy recommend against searching for the “best” spot lists online – by sending everyone to the same places, it can detract from the experience and favorite spots that started experiencing issues with litter, erosion, graffiti. Often, visitors can get a better experience by checking with locals and going to the lesser-known places.

“We often hire a guide when we travel for the same reason that we hope that people hire us – we get a more immersive experience and remove some of the barriers and unknowns,” Katy explained. “In our area, we go explore where other people aren’t. It is more rewarding for people to feel like they are in the wild and a private experience with the guide and in nature.”

A recent tour participant, Katie G., reflected on her experience with Bethel Adventure Tours: “Katy gave me so much help and confidence on my bike and I am so grateful! We’ve learned a lot about equipment, trails, technique, local flora and fauna…all while having fund exploring our beautiful area.”

In addition to guiding new and returning visitors, Katy and Alex also work with local community members to enjoy the land. 

“We are really happy to help local community members achieve their goals on bikes, skis, snowshoes, hikes, paddles and nature appreciation. We are a small company owned by locals endeavoring to add value to the Bethel area community. That is our definition of the Mahoosuc Way,” Katy shared.

 

The Mahoosuc Way Principles in Action

  • Explore Wisely: Alex and Katy do their homework to help people explore with intention, care for the land as they adventure, and customize their experiences to accommodate for their needs and the season.
  • Care for the Land: By embedding education as part of the guide experience, visitors and locals alike walk away with a better understanding and sense of place, and their impact on it.
  • Cultivate Community: Partnering with local nonprofits in the area cultivate community – Alex and Katy enjoy sponsoring and giving tours on Mahoosuc Land Trust property, with Inland Woods + Trails for mountain biking coaching and trail stewardship, and coaching for Mahoosuc Kids Association and Maine Adaptative.


What’s one of your favorite things about living in the Bethel region?

It is amazing to come back to such a peaceful spot [after traveling]. Even though it is a ski town and there are tourists, there is such a strong community here. You can really get to know people through volunteering and community involvement. Everyone has the same goal and wants to make the community work – it’s been really welcoming. 


How would you recommend “exploring wisely” in our region?

Being prepared is one of the most important things. Most of the tragedies you hear about are people who may not have been properly prepared with clothing, or medication, gear, first aid, communication, etc.

Do research ahead of time – check on weather conditions, ask yourself – do I know the trail, do I know how to be safe and responsible on the trail?


What are some recent partnerships or events you’ve been excited to participate in?

Some of our favorite events we’ve been doing lately are women’s events. We had a full weekend at Western Maine Yurts – it was a great way for people to spend time together, eat together, share their adventuring life struggles and fears. They became a group of women that cheer each other on and bond with each other. Beyond that, I am excited to explore future collaborations with other businesses and restaurants since they create a great local community.