Being a Trek Travel Guide offers a unique lifestyle with many opportunities and rewards. We are fortunate enough to see breathtaking corners of the world and work with a family of coworkers that are nothing short of incredible. We also have an extreme variety of responsibilities as a Guide representing Trek Travel.
During a typical day, we are extremely organized and flexible. We master trip logistics, manage trip finances and represent Trek Travel with subcontractors. We educate our Guests on safe techniques, enrich their cultural understanding, motivate those who wish to challenge themselves, pamper those looking for the ultimate in luxury, and provide vacations of a lifetime for all. This is simply the beginning. The following are qualities required to be a Trek Travel Guide.
Exceptional Customer Service
At Trek Travel our philosophy is that we have an option for all our Guests. Accordingly, on every trip Guides are expected to personalize each guest’s vacation to their individual abilities and desires by offering unparalleled support and flexibility, with options for all travelers throughout the entire trip.
Superior Hosting Skills
Guides are ALWAYS “on”! Our days can start as early as 5:00 AM and end past midnight with a primary goal to ensure that our Guests are having the time of their lives. Guides must extend their skills from wrenching on bikes to creating gourmet picnics to entertaining dinner conversations with a range of individuals.
Infinitely Flexible, Resourceful and Solution-Oriented
Guides must easily adapt to rapidly changing scenarios, find solutions quickly with their teammates and “roll with it” when faced with a situation that strays from the plan. While we spend an enormous amount of time planning our trips down to the last detail, a large part of what makes our Guests’ trip experience unforgettable are those spontaneous moments that you can’t predict.
A Natural “Connector” with all Personality Types
Mornings, afternoons, and evenings are spent engaging our Guests in conversation both on and off the bike all while maintaining Trek Travel’s legendary customer service and attention to detail. We must possess skills to accommodate any and all Guest personalities, connect the group and genuinely want to get to know each and every guest.
Culturally Aware and Involved
We weave each and every Guest into the fabric of a culture and region, whether it is an exclusive wine tasting at a private Bordeaux chateau, chance meetings with a local farmer on the side of a road or naturalists on our trips to talk about rain forest ecology. We have an innate and insatiable curiosity of our surroundings, as well as natural ability to extend that sense of discovery to those around us.
Fun, Passionate and a Dynamic Zest for Life
Guides are the type of individuals that others enjoy being around because they possess positive energy and a contagious zest for life. The charisma that each guide exudes extends beyond on-trip interaction, it is who we are. We love life, are extremely passionate about people and travel. We want to share that with all other people we interact with.
Polished Professionalism
We are expected to constantly display lightheartedness while always maintaining control of the situation. Responding quickly and decisively to challenging situations, informing our Guests of what is going on are paramount. Maintaining and enhancing mutually beneficial relationships with our sub-contractors in the field is also key, as they are critical to our business.
Safety-Focused
Due to the inherent risks in any physical activity, we have a peerless dedication to ensuring that safe practices are followed, and Guests are educated on proper etiquette habits when travelling with us. All Guides are required to be First Aid and CPR certified, deliver pre-ride Safety Talks and Tips, constantly be aware of Guests’ travelling habits and offer suggestions or warnings as necessary.
Committed to Continuous Improvement
While every trip we run has been painstakingly put together by a team of Guides, Researchers and Trip Designers, we never stop looking for a better way to do things. Are there more scenic routes to get to our picnic spot? Has someone met a charming artisan to host our Guests in their workshop for an intimate lunch? Guides are always looking to improve Guests’ experience and streamline logistical systems.
Fiscally Responsible
Guides have an enormous amount of responsibility placed on their shoulders as they are put in charge of sizable assets such as vehicles, trailers, bikes, and related equipment. We only hire those who display the highest levels of integrity and honesty. We trust our Guides and give them a large amount of discretion in the field; we expect them to maintain exceedingly high fiscal standards and keep all finances in order at all times.
Excellent Communicator
Guides are able to comfortably communicate with Guests by setting expectations, communicating the itinerary and relaying important information in an interesting and fun way. Beyond that, Guides must be proficient in providing thorough feedback and ideas for improvement for every trip they run plus comfortable providing constructive feedback to teammates.
Reliable Team Player
One of the best parts of this job is the people you work with. Not only are you working with another Guide (sometimes 2 or more), you are living, eating and breathing with that Guide for up to several months at a time. Due to the enormous amount of preparation and ongoing work that goes into each Trek Travel trip, our Guides must be able to rely on their teammates to get the job done and have fun doing it.
Please provide the following documents with your Guide application. Note: they should all be in one PDF file. If you have any questions, please do not reach out to us on our online chat, but rather to careers@trektravel.com
Cover Letter: Explain to us why you feel you are the perfect candidate for this job.
Resume: Please send us a 1-page, updated resume. Show us what makes you unique.
Two Letters of Reference (optional): Provide two reference contacts OR two letters of reference from former employers or other professionals who can vouch for your suitability for this job. A Trek Travel team member reference can replace one of your two letters.
General Requirements
Please have the following general requirements in order to continue with the selection process.
We’re looking for individuals with a diverse set of skills – but don’t worry, we’ll help you get there! What matters most is your willingness to learn and put in the time. We’ll provide the training, resources, and support to help you thrive. If you show up with the right mindset, we’ll help you develop everything else.
Proficient Bike Mechanics
We expect our Guide Candidates to be competent and confident in the following Intermediate Bike Mechanic Skills BEFORE arriving at Guide Training:
Remove and replace either a tube and/or tire from both the front and rear of a bike, and properly seat the wheel in the dropouts with proper tightening of the quick release lever in 5 minutes or less
Remove and install pedals in 5 minutes or less
Remove and replace a bike chain in 5 minutes or less
Adjust a bike saddle, both height and fore/aft position
Remove and replace a brake cable on a road bike equipped with internally routed cables
Properly adjust both brake pad alignment and lever throw on a road bike
Remove and replace a derailleur cable on a road bike equipped with internally routed cables
Properly adjust both front and rear derailleurs on a road bike
Adjust a bike helmet for the proper fit Properly tape handlebars on a road bike in 10 minutes or less
Demonstrate general familiarity with carbon fiber bike frames
Change a handlebar stem and properly tighten to the specified torque
It is important to note that if you are invited to New Guide Training, you will be tested on your proficiency with these skills in order to be considered for a Guide Contract.
Strong Physical Fitness
Guides mainly split their time between bike and van support however must be physically fit to ride every day if needed. Refer to our Rider Level 3 for general physical fitness required as you must be comfortable riding the distances and terrain on all road bike trips. In addition to cycling, we expect all Guides to comfortably lift 50lbs over their head. Guides are required to load and unload 20+ bikes on top of our vans, porter guest luggage and move large coolers and bins.
Proficient Driving a Standard Transmission with a Trailer
While our North American vans are automatic transmissions, our European vans are all manual transmission. We require all potential applicants to be proficient driving both while pulling a trailer, and all potential European applicants must have the correct licensing, B+E, in their country for driving while pulling a trailer of unlimited weight.
Clear Driving Record
Trek Travel will ask for a driving record at the candidate’s expense prior to the Virtual New Guide Selection Event. Candidate agrees that company may perform driver history checks on the candidate as a condition of their contract. Note, your driving record must have no more than 3 moving violations in the last 3 years. We will not hire anyone with a DWI/DUI (driving while under the influence of alcohol) conviction on his or her record, regardless of when the offense occurred.
Foreign Language
We run many trips in France, Italy and Spain. The ability to speak any of these languages, in addition to fluent English, increases your chances as a candidate.
Local Guides
We run many trips in various US states, France, Italy, Spain, and other countries around the world. Being a local of a region/area in which we run our trips may be an advantage over other candidates as we consider knowledge of the local culture and experience in an area an important characteristic of our Guides. While being local may be an advantage, it is not a requirement.
Age Requirement
In order to comply with our liability insurance, all potential Guides must be at least 23 years of age. There is no age limit.
Travel Experience
Having spent time travelling and experiencing other cultures certainly increases your odds. We look for candidates with an expansive worldview who relish the idea of working in other regions while imparting their knowledge of those experiences and cultures on Guests.
Strong Computer Skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook email
Comfortable with both Internet and Email
Comfortable using a smart phone and capturing quality photos
Familiar with GPS tracking devices and creating routes online
Able to upload and download .gpx and .tcx files
If hired, Guides will need to provide the following items:
Current First Aid and CPR Certification: All candidates offered a Guide Contract will be required to obtain their First Aid Level 1 (or Basic) as well as Adult CPR certification, valid until the end of the year, and submit a copy of these to the Trek Travel office prior to commencing work. Guides are responsible for the cost of this certification and responsible for submitting evidence of re- certification yearly.
Scanned copy of your valid passport and drivers license(s): All Trek Travel Guides are required to either be in possession of or obtain a passport that is valid 6 months past the end of the current year and submit a copy of this to Trek Travel office prior to commencing work. This is a requirement for ALL our guides, regardless of whether or not you work in North America or abroad. Guides are responsible for the cost of obtaining their passport. Guides must also be in possession of a valid driver’s license, and it is the responsibility of the Guide to obtain the driver’s license. We will ask for these items prior to attending the New Guide Training Event. Also note: It is the responsibility of European Guides to obtain a B+E license in order to pull our trailers in Europe. We will ask for this prior to your season as a Guide.
Laptop/Tablet: All guides are required to provide their own laptop or tablet computer, equipped with the following capabilities to use while working for Trek Travel. (Trek Travel provides the online versions of office 365): Wireless networking capability, Web browser, MS Word, MS Excel, MS Teams installed (we use this program extensively to communicate with our Guides in the field. Please note that your laptop does not need to be equipped with a camera; beyond the initial video interviews, it is not required).
Bike tools: While all of our units come fully stocked with extensive bike repair tools, Guides are expected to have a basic tool kit with them at all times while riding bike support. This includes a multi-tool (1.5-8mm), torque wrench, set of tire levers, and a small patch kit.
First Aid Kit: All Guides must provide a cycling First Aid kit, which they are required to carry with them at all times while riding bike support. Guides are responsible for making sure that this is kept stocked for each trip they guide. If offered a Guide Contract, you will be given a list of items that must make up this kit. Guides are responsible for replenishing this kit as needed.
Camera-equipped, web-enabled smartphone: All Guides are required to provide their own web- enabled, camera-equipped smartphone. Your daily pay rate includes a per diem for phone use, therefore all costs associated with the use of your cell phone while guiding are the responsibility of the Guide, so it is advised that you keep all cell phone receipts for tax purposes. Trek Travel will provide a SIM card to use while working if located outside of your home country.
8-Megapixel camera: All Guides must provide and carry with them a portable digital camera. If your smartphone’s camera has at least 8-megapixel resolution, you are able to use that in place of a separate camera.
Guide clothing: Trek Travel provides some clothing and other gear at no cost to Guides given a contract. Outside of these items, all outwardly visible cycling apparel including cycling shoes must be branded Trek Travel, Trek or Bontrager. Please note Guides are able to purchase Trek and Bontrager apparel and gear at near-wholesale prices prior and during their guiding season.
Microsoft Program Applications: Trek Travel will provide an Office 365 account to all Guides. This enables online access to documents, email, and Trek Travel resources. It is encouraged that Guides obtain the version of Microsoft Office 365 that is available to install and use offline on their computers. The cost is not covered or required by Trek Travel, only highly recommended, as it makes many responsibilities more efficient.
Guide pay rates are based on an hourly rate that is provided along with contracts/offer letters and handbooks at the start of each season. Hourly rates are individual to each guide. North American guides have a starting rate of $12 per hour, while European guides start at €11.83 per hour. Guides will be paid on a bi-weekly basis. Trek Travel will consider pay increases on an annual basis based on several factors. More information regarding pay will be provided throughout the interview process and within the contract and handbook. In addition to their regular rate of pay, it is customary for Guides to receive gratuities directly from guests. Each guest is encouraged to tip an average of $40-50 per day.
Amount of Work
Guide earnings depend heavily on the number of trips guided and the amount and type of work performed on each trip. Guides with more availability have a better chance of being scheduled for more work and therefore have a greater chance of earning more income. On average, a full-time Guide will work 10-20 trips (or 100-200) days per peak season (April-October). In most cases, for every 2-3 weeks working, a guide will have 1 week off. Full-time guides tend to have priority with scheduled trips since they have full time availability; whereas, part-time guides have scheduled work depending on availability, location and other factors. In addition to guiding trips, Guides will have the opportunity to perform other paid services, including, but not limited to:
Bike and equipment maintenance and miscellaneous warehouse work as scheduled
Driving equipment between regions
Updating all Guide & Trip Documents with changes as they occur
Researching new trips
Final trip preparation on ground conducted at the beginning of a season prior to running trips in a region
Familiarization drives of a new region prior to guiding a trip for the first time
Training and Meeting sessions
Guide Travel
Trek Travel will pay for all transportation costs to and from the Guide’s home airport and trip destinations. We enjoy the services of a dedicated Travel Agent who helps book Guide flights and rail tickets. Guides are only responsible for transportation costs if they choose to modify the itinerary planned by Trek Travel, for example, by extending their stay at or around the trip destination or traveling to and from home in-between trips.
Guide Housing
Trek Travel will pay for all lodging associated with the trip-related work. Guides room together while staying in lodging on trip, paid for by Trek Travel. When Guides are not working or are in between trips, Trek Travel will pay lodging at a regional Guide house or hotel (at its sole discretion) as well as all necessary transportation costs. If a Guide does not wish to take advantage of lodging provided by Trek Travel before or after (but not during) a trip, they may stay elsewhere at their own expense, including the cost of transportation to and from such alternative lodging.
Guide Meals
Trek Travel pays for Guide’s meals that we include in the trip for our Guests. For example, on a typical trip all breakfasts, most dinners and most lunches are included in the price of the trip for our guests, so Guides do not have to pay for these meals. Trek Travel Guides are responsible for paying for all meals outside of their trips while on contract with us.
Benefits
Workers Compensation Coverage
Worker’s Compensation Insurance provides medical expense coverage for hospital and out-patient medical treatment as well as a limited amount of disability income protection should the guide incur an injury on the job or contract an illness directly attributable to their work. In the event of a work- related injury, all Guides are covered by Workers Compensation Insurance.
Additional Benefits
Beyond working in amazing places and interacting with an incredibly diverse group of both Guests and Co-Guides, there are many advantages to being a Trek Travel Guide.
Active work environment, we pay you to travel for work
Vast array of opportunities within the growing company
Desirable company values and culture
Ride our top-of-the-line bikes while guiding and in the field
Immediate access to discounted prices on Trek and Bontrager gear
Generous discounts on purchase of Trek Bikes
Privy to leading outdoor industry discounts through our network of Pro Deals
Discounts on Trek Travel vacations for you and your family members
Ability to keep personal frequent flyer miles from all work-related travel
Be apart of a dynamic, worldwide Trek Travel family with an average of 5+ years retention
Vibrant, passionate, committed coworkers who love cycling just as much as you do
Continuous Training Programs for the entire Trek Travel team
The following information is relative for all Trek Travel employees. Please note: Guides that are US citizens are hired as Trek Travel employees.
Medical Insurance
Employees who qualify as full-time employees (FTEs), are eligible for the individual coverage health reimbursement arrangement (ICHRA). You are eligible on the first of the month following the first month you work 130 hours or more. Eligibility will be measured and determined on a monthly basis.
Dental & Vision Insurance
Trek Travel provides the dental and vision plans through Delta Dental and is 100% covered by the employee. Dental and vision have the same eligibility as the ICHRA.
401(K) Plan
Employees are eligible to make 401(k) Elective Deferral Contributions on the first day of the calendar month following the month during which you attain the age 21 and after you have completed 1 month of service, measured from your date of hire. After working 1,000 hours in 6 or 12 consecutive months, whichever comes first, you will be eligible to receive Trek Travel’s match of 50% on the first 6% you contribute, and you are 100% vested immediately.
Read all pages of the Guide Job Description thoroughly.
Prepare all necessary documents: Resume, Cover Letter, and 2 References. Please review the Guide Requirements page if you have questions about any of these items.
Use the Submit Application button below to complete the application and attach your documents
Once the above steps are complete, your application will be ready for review. The Trek Travel Guide Selection Process and New Guide Training Bootcamp Program are unique processes designed to enable us to offer Guide Contracts to the very best candidates.
Please do not submit application items to our office by mail or fax. Applications received by mail or fax will not be considered. Please do not contact Trek Travel by phone to inquire about the status of your application. We will only be contacting the strongest candidates for an interview.
Note: Applications are reviewed in the order they are received. It is in your best interest to submit your application early to improve your chances of being hired as we utilize rolling admissions while processing applications. We do accept applications throughout the year to keep on file, should our needs change.
Microsoft Teams Video Interviews
We will select the strongest candidates for a Microsoft Teams video interview to be scheduled as applications are processed. If you are chosen for an interview, we will contact you to set up a convenient time. These interviews will last approximately 30 minutes.
Please note: If you are chosen for a Teams video interview, you will need to have access to a video- enabled computer or smartphone with strong Internet access.
Virtual New Guide Selection & In-Person Training Bootcamp Event
Our New Guide Training Bootcamp Program will be a combination of virtual and in-person training. Learn more about these events below.
Virtual New Guide Selection Events:
North American Events:
December 9th
December 11th
December 18th
European Events:
December 3rd
December 5th
December 10th
December 12th
December 17th
Our Virtual New Guide Selection Events take place via Microsoft Teams and is conducted by our Trek Travel Selection Team. There are multiple dates to choose from when these get scheduled. This is a 4-hour event online, structured as a group interview and comprised of a variety of activities. There is no pay for attending.
2026 New Guide Training Bootcamp Program
Candidates invited to our New Guide Training Bootcamp Program will take part in an exciting two-step process:
Virtual New Guide Training is a series of virtual sessions totaling approximately 20 hours. There is no travel required for this section of training as it is open to candidates 10 days prior to the next phase of training and taken at your own pace, though it must be completed prior to the next phase of training. We recommend working on course material a few hours per day.
Virtual New Guide Training –
North American Virtual Training: Open on February 25th, 2026.
European Virtual Training: Open on January 29th, 2026.
The New Guide Training Event (NGT) is the next phase of our New Guide Training Program. It is an in-person, 8-day bootcamp, consisting of hands-on training and practice with fellow candidates. Trek Travel covers accommodation and meal expenses during these days. Travel expense is a personal expense for candidates.
New Guide Training Bootcamp –
North American New Guide Training Bootcamp: Hosted in Fredericksburg, TX March 7th-14th, 2026.
European New Guide Training Bootcamp: Hosted in Girona, Spain February 8th-15th, 2026.
Attendance is mandatory, if invited, in order to be considered for a Guide Contract. Training Events will be comprised of an intensive series of role-playing scenarios, group challenges, bike repair, trip financials, trip reporting and mock trips. After New Guide Training is complete, we offer Guide Contracts to our strongest candidates. Candidates must have access to a computer video camera, a microphone, and reliable internet connection. Candidates are responsible for associated travel expenses. Trek Travel will pay for accommodation, transportation, and meals while at Training.
All candidates are notified after the New Guide Training Bootcamp if they will be receiving a Guide Contract or not.
It is very important to point out that being invited to Guide Training does not guarantee you will be offered a Guide Contract with Trek Travel. Only those candidates who display the highest degree of competency during Guide Training will be offered a contract.
At any point during Guide Training, participants may be asked to leave if we do not feel they are meeting the established criteria. It is for this reason we strongly recommend candidates purchase changeable air tickets if they are invited.
Additional Virtual New Guide Selection Events will be announced as needed.
I started guiding over 20 years ago because I wanted to do something I truly had a passion for. I love to hear guests tell us their trip was the best trip they have ever been on. I especially love the smiling faces, hearing hearty laughter and watching them enjoying the simple pleasure of being outdoors in the most beautiful places on earth.
Our Guides are the cornerstone of our Business and are solely focused on providing the vacation of a lifetime. They have an intoxicating zest for life. They’re insightful, quirky and, from cartoon designers to engineers and lawyers, they come from a variety of backgrounds that have shaped their charismatic personas. They are magicians, able to transform from grease to grace.
One moment they are wrenching on bikes or appearing exactly when needed with a beverage, and the next they are eloquently explaining the intricate history of each hilltop village or confidently pairing two-star Michelin meals with the perfect local wine. With intimate knowledge of the landscape, they can suggest the best route to match any ability. What sets them apart from the rest is their infinitely accommodating, fun and flexible attitude. They live by the motto Your Day, You Decide and will attempt anything to ensure that every trip is a trip of a lifetime. These are the guide qualities and skills we look for:
Professionals
Excellent Communicators
Seasoned Travelers
Exceptional Bike Mechanics
Natural “Connectors” with all personality types
Master a Foreign Language
Fun, Passionate and a Dynamic Zest for Life
Flexible
Avid Cyclists
Safety-focused
Resourceful and Solution-Oriented
Culturally Aware and Involved
Guide life is unique, rewarding and not an easy job. Please read through our Guide position information to determine if this is the job for you. If the answer is YES we look forward to hearing from you.
Selecting the perfect gift for travel lovers can be quite a task, especially for those who are also cycling enthusiasts. A bike tour tailored to their travel style can be an extraordinary and memorable gift. Here are the top 5 bike tours, each catering to different travel preferences.
1. Pyrenees Coast to Coast: For the Adventure Seeker
For those who live for adventure and love to test their limits, the Pyrenees Coast to Coast bike tour is an exhilarating choice. This challenging route takes riders across diverse terrains, offering stunning views of the majestic Pyrenees. Riders will conquer famous climbs, enjoy exhilarating descents, and experience the rich culture of this region. It’s a journey that combines physical challenge with the reward of breathtaking scenery and cultural immersion.
2. Slovenia: For the World Explorer
The Slovenia bike tour is perfect for those who have an insatiable curiosity for exploring every corner of the globe. This tour takes cyclists through Slovenia’s enchanting landscapes, from its alpine mountains to its lush valleys and clear rivers. The route includes visits to historic castles, vineyards, and the charming streets of Ljubljana. It’s a blend of natural beauty, history, and a dash of adventure, making it a unique experience for the well-traveled individual.
3. Crater Lake: For the Nature Lover
Ideal for those who find solace in nature, the Crater Lake bike tour is a journey through Oregon’s stunning natural landscapes. This tour not only features the deep blue waters of Crater Lake but also takes riders through lush forests and past cascading waterfalls. It’s an opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and immerse oneself in the tranquility and beauty of the natural world.
4. Tuscany Countryside: For the Culinary Enthusiast
For the gourmets and culinary enthusiasts, the Tuscany Countryside bike tour is a dream come true. This tour offers a delightful journey through the heart of Italian cuisine and culture. Cyclists will ride through picturesque vineyards, olive groves, and medieval villages, stopping to enjoy the finest local wines, cheeses, and traditional Tuscan fare. It’s a perfect blend of scenic cycling and culinary indulgence.
5. Loire Valley Wine Country: For the Aspiring Traveler
The Loire Valley bike tour is an excellent choice for those new to international travel or looking for a relaxed cycling experience. This tour is known for its gentle routes, stunning châteaux, and, of course, its exquisite wines. Riders will enjoy the serene beauty of the French countryside and the rich history of the Loire Valley. It’s a delightful and easy-going introduction to the joys of travel and cycling tours.
Each of these bike tours offers a unique experience, tailored to different travel preferences. Whether your loved one is an adventure seeker, a world explorer, a nature aficionado, a culinary enthusiast, or an aspiring traveler, there’s a bike tour that’s perfect for them. These tours are not just gifts; they’re gateways to unforgettable experiences and memories.
Bike to Work Week is here, and as the weather warms up, there’s no better time to try something new and discover a more eco-friendly way to commute. If you’ve never considered biking to work, we talked with our office staff and have some of the top reasons why you should try it on your next commute!
1. It’s good for your health
Forget those boring gym sessions! Regular cycling can boost cardiovascular health, increase muscle strength and flexibility, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Plus, cycling to work is a fantastic way to incorporate exercise into your daily routine without sacrificing time for a separate workout. Our HR Generalist, Claudia Marquez, says, “It’s a fantastic way to get a mini-workout in before starting your day!”
Biking to work can also have a tremendous impact on your mental well-being. Regular physical activity is linked to reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety. Trip Consultant, Becca Bauer, says, “I feel mentally and physically better when I get some exercise in before and after work.” Additionally, biking to work can be an excellent way to de-stress and boost your overall well-being.
2. It’s good for the environment
Let’s do our part for Mother Earth! One of the most significant benefits of biking to work is that it benefits the environment. Cars emit harmful pollutants that contribute to air pollution and climate change, whereas bikes produce no emissions. By choosing to bike to work, you’re doing your part to reduce your carbon footprint and help the planet. So far, in 2023, employees in our Madison office have biked over 1,120 miles to and from work and have offset over 863 pounds of CO2 by choosing a sustainable mode of transportation!
Did you know that it is also possible to offset the carbon cost of your bike by replacing 430 driving miles with riding miles? The rule of 430 was developed at Trek to calculate how to offset the carbon cost of manufacturing your bike. Learn more about the rule of 430 and how you can make your bike carbon-negative here.»
3. It saves you time and money
Believe it or not, cycling to work can sometimes save you time. If you live in a bustling city with heavy traffic, biking can be a quicker way to get to work than driving. Our Guide Manager, Brie, says, “Madison’s bike infrastructure is an ideal place to bike to work. It cuts my commute time in almost half!” Ness adds, “Biking is faster and less stressful than sitting in traffic, and I don’t have to worry about finding or paying for a parking spot.”
4. It’s a fun way to start your day
Get ready for an adventure! Cycling to work can be an exciting and enjoyable way to kickstart your day. You get to experience the great outdoors, breathe fresh air, and take in the scenery. It’s also a fantastic way to clear your mind, reduce stress, and feel refreshed and energized at work. Emily says, “It’s a great way to arrive at work feeling calm and centered!” Many of our staff mentioned that biking to work is an excellent way to explore new parts of your city and take advantage of scenic routes.
So, what are you waiting for? Whether you want to stay active, reduce your carbon footprint, save money, or add fun to your day, biking to work is an excellent option. Now is a great time to try it during Bike to Work Week!
Are you searching to upgrade your bike for the perfect commute? Our pre-owned bike sale is here! Plus, you’ll take an additional $300 off our 2019 Trek Domane SL 7 Disc now for only $2,299! (No discount code required.) Click below to shop our expertly maintained pre-owned bikes to purchase your upgrade while your size is available.
One of our guides, Jonathan Hershberger who captured the winning photo in North America in 2022, shared a brief story about the creation of this enchanting image, which may serve as inspiration for your photography!
The fall season of our Bryce to Zion trips had just begun. With record-high temperature’s in the forecast, my co-guide Sarah & I were thinking about how best to create experiences of a lifetime for our guests. Each day presented us with a different challenge. Our tour starts in Boulder, Utah, and begins with an amazing ride on the Burr Trail. Imagine sheer red rock cliffs, petrified sand dunes, views that go on for days, and more cyclists than cars.
Our home for the first night of the trip is the Boulder Mountain Lodge, a cute & quaint hotel. What sets this hotel apart is the restaurant, Hell’s Backbone Grill & Farm. Hell’s Backbone Grill & Farm has won numerous awards & recognitions ranging from receiving Zagat’s highest rating in Utah to multiple semifinalists & finalists for the James Beard Award. In 2022 they were a semifinalist in the “Oustanding Restaurant” category.
On day 2 of the trip we depart Boulder for our second stop of the trip Bryce, Utah. With temperatures slated to rise well over 100* F, my co-guide & I decided to stock up on extra ice & depart early. Today’s ride is fantastic as we weave along a stunning section of road called, Hogsback Ridge. The ridge features stunning views in every direction & is a highlight for our guests.
We reached our first stop in Escalante as the temps were climbing. It was here we decided to modify our route. Instead of stopping for lunch & finishing the ride in the heat of the day, we gave the guests the option to cycle Hogsback Ridge in reverse & then have lunch. The guests all enthusiastically went for option B. After topping up on water & snacks, we returned the way they came.
This was the first time I had done Hogsback Ridge in the opposite direction. The views did not disappoint. The guests loved being able to get the miles in before the temperatures became too extreme. It was here that I was able to snap the photo that won best North American Picture 2022 for Trek Travel.
Our mission is to “Create experiences of a lifetime, provide exceptional hospitality, have fun, and inspire a passion for cycling and travel.” If you are thinking of traveling with us in 2023, know that we are constantly looking to create those experiences of a lifetime for you on every trip. Oh, and the temperatures finally dropped the next day in Bryce. We had a fabulous remainder of the trip. Who knows, maybe the opportunity for the guides to modify your day to give you the best experience may also help to win a photo award too.
Here’s to traveling in 2023. So where will you travel with us?
Hershy, Trek Travel Guide Since 2005
Thank you Hershy for sharing this story! Find your next adventure in North America this year.
Bluegrass. Bourbon. Horse Country. Experience the understated beauty of Kentucky Bourbon Country in this day-by-day photo guide taken by our talented guest, Bob Joy.
Day 1: Ride the Legacy Trail and explore downtown Lexington:
Take your first pedal strokes through horse country on the Legacy Trail Bike Path. You’ll wind your way past the Kentucky Horse Park and into rolling fields of beautiful horse farms. Your ride ends at Evans Orchard Cider Mill, where you’ll shuttle back to Lexington to walk around downtown to do some exploring before joining your group in the bar at Lockbox for a fun social hour and dinner.
Day 2: Tour MeadowCreek Farm and enjoy a tour and bourbon tasting at Limestone Branch Distillery:
Start your day at MeadowCreek Farm, just outside the town of Lebanon. The farm is home to several impeccably pedigreed horses with impressive wins on their resumes and you will have the chance for some up-close views of these amazing creatures! After the tour, your guides will shuttle you to Limestone Branch Distillery. Ride a loop through the hills around Lebanon on quiet country roads before enjoying a tasty picnic lunch. After lunch, you’ll get a guided tour of the distillery and a bourbon tasting.
Day 3: Explore Shaker Village and take a guided hayride tour:
Today you’ll explore the many offerings of the Shaker Village area. The morning’s ride will take you northwest, on roads through open farmland in the Salt River watershed. Upon your return to the village, the rest of the afternoon is yours to spend as you like. Choose to ride a bit more, to the small town of Burgin, or set out on a hike through the Preserve which features over 30 miles of trail through native prairies, woodlands, fields, and canebrakes. Or you may opt to take one of the many tours offered daily to learn about the Shakers who lived here around the turn of the nineteenth century. In the late afternoon, you will join your travel companions for a drink and narrated hayride, which will introduce you to the rich history of the village.
Day 4: Ride to Versailles, visit Woodford Reserve, and arrive at the Kentucky Castle:
Ride alongside the Kentucky River and through several of its tributary drainages on the morning ride as you cross unique bridges and pass through forests and small farms. When you arrive in downtown Versailles, you’ll have a number of fresh and delicious lunch options to choose from. Then hop back on your bike for a short ride to Woodford Reserve Distillery, one of Kentucky’s oldest and most highly acclaimed distilleries.
Day 5: Tour Castle & Key Distillery, enjoy lunch overlooking Glenn’s Creek, and toast your week at the Kentucky Castle
You’ll start your day riding your way to Castle & Key, a small boutique distillery that has recently undergone a careful restoration. The distillery was built in In 1887 by legendary distiller Colonel Edmund Haynes Taylor, Jr. and features a castle, a classical springhouse, and sunken gardens. On a guided walk through the property, you’ll learn about the owners’ from-scratch process of distilling spirits. Enjoy a tasting of their craft then head just down the road to The Stave for lunch. Here, a menu of modern twists on favorite Kentucky dishes awaits while you relax on the patio that overlooks Glenn’s Creek.
Day 6: Cycle past the immaculate grounds of the Keeneland Race Track:
Enjoy one final spin through the green pastures of the storied grounds of the Keeneland Race Track, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and once voted the #1 thoroughbred racetrack in North America.
Many thanks to our guest, Bob Joy, for contributing the photos for this post!
See the the Kentucky Bourbon Country trip
Now it is winter. From the kitchen table where I am writing, snow covers the perennial and vegetable gardens and the apple tree’s graceful limbs are sketched against the pale gray sky. I see fox tracks wandering down to the horse chestnut tree. Birds are busy at the sunflower feeders and the four-sided suet cage attracts downy woodpeckers and both red-breasted and white-breasted nuthatches. Cavorting chickadees are everywhere. The birds splotches of color are pleasing in the monochromatic wash of our habitat.
The notion of pedaling a bike amidst 97 degrees and punishing headwinds through Badlands NP seems so distantly foreign. But it really did happen!
21 cyclists plus 5 guides, have them move from place to place in concert every day and oh, by the way, ride a bike for 3800+ miles over hill and dale no matter the weather? It’s a social experiment bar none. Better than that it was the human condition showing itself in every kind of encounter. With eyes wide open I observed how my fellow P2P’ers and I handled fatigue, heat, rain, wind, 16 century/century+ days, a different bed every night, bicycle malfunctions, laundry obligations, gut grief, saddle sores, humdrum paltry breakfasts at too many Holiday Inn Express lodgings and muling luggage to a room every night only to lug it back to the luggage trailer every morning.
Some days smiles were harder to come by. Did we pedal anyway? Yup.
The collective nature of our task over-rode the daily setbacks or frustrations that stymied all of us at one point or another. Extending grace to another who was having a frustrating or tough day helped smoothed their road. I can remember Guide Blake matter of factly saying somewhere in the middle of Wyoming to someone who was complaining about the blasting heat and wind, “We signed up to ride across the country which means we are going to encounter all kinds of weather.”
It all worked out due to having 5 superlative humans as our guides and because 21 out of 21 of us were determined to rely on our persistence no matter what. The unsung virtue.The quiet ability to keep going when all around you events seem to conspire to create hardship just for you. The pressing daunting heat, the head winds, the hills, the hill that always came when I was sure I had no more to give. Somehow I always had something more to pull out of myself. Persistence. Belief.
To a cyclist we knew the ineluctable truth: we had to pedal those bikes for so many many miles to get where we wanted to go. The endlessness of South Dakota and her ferocious unrelenting heat sucked some joy out of each of us at some point. It became a game for Sandy and me to wonder how long it would be until we’d see a sliver of shade. Oh, there it was at lunch one day. Each day we woke up and oriented ourselves eastward. Each day Sandy would say to me as we rode along, “I could do this all day!” To which I would respond, “Lucky for you, let’s keep going!”
There’s an unexplainable thing inside me that is wired to find joy in the doing of a venture like this one. Each day I was eager to ride. Each day I was engaged. Each day was it’s own distinct experience with a new route to explore and to know that at the end of my effort a warm meal and a bed were waiting. Whether cycling alone or with others, I liked taking big gulps of what was all around me absorbing it all for more energy. I noted every grasshopper that leaped up and brushed my shins, each crumpled on the road butterfly, the creases in the rock formations, the osprey and eagles, the roadside chicory that I spied all the way in every state all the way until Vermont. I could never look away from the disfigured remnants of so many alluring creatures and my heart cracked each time. It still does as I remember the stilled wildlife.
To know that these strengths are still part of me is a pleasing comfort. For years and years I found joy in the training necessary to be an elite middle distance runner. I was able to conjure that same joy for the 8.5 months I trained for P2P and then, most importantly, find it again for the journeying days across the country.
My will? Iron strong. My heart? Powerful and honed. My mind? Always engaged in the doing in front of me.
Energy begets energy. Being around people who are faucets and not drains makes an endeavor sing. I gravitated towards those who were buoyant and could see the shade when there was none, who could bend into the biting winds and not say a word and see the sun when it rained (only 3 days of that, we were so very lucky). One of my favorite memories was seeing Ian one late afternoon as he barged into our hotel lobby in the middle of nowhere. He looked at me since I was the first person he encountered upon getting off his bike and he thundered, “Those last 20 miles were HORRIBLE.” I couldn’t help laughing.
Completing P2P has left me with a cornucopia of memories and experiences that will remain rich and real. So what’s ahead? The roads will find me in Solvang, Greenville and Mallorca on TT Ride Camp weeks. Vermont’s gravel roads will be on my docket in July. Autumn beckons with TT Ride Across Italy and the stunning Ride the Ridges 100K in Cabot, VT. Looking further ahead has me eyeing the TT Pyrenees Sea to Sea trip for 2024.
Training is my daily truth. It’s powered all the more by knowing I’ve got P2P quietly riding in my back pocket. A touchstone that abides. A reminder that I’ve got plenty to give. A reminder to say, “Why not?”
You’ve heard plenty from me by now. If you are considering joining this marvelously challenging and beautiful trip I’ll leave you with this: Believe, believe, believe.
Finally, I asked a few of my fellow P2P adventurers to share why they joined this audacious idea of a trip. If you find yourself nodding your head and thinking “I could do this” while reading their comments then you know what to do. Sign up!
Thanks for reading.
Lynn Jennings
Why did you decide to ride Cross Country USA?
Pat: “Why Not?!!!” Having completed 25 marathons, 40 plus ½ marathons, 15 Half and 2 full Ironman, and canoed in the Boundary Waters, this was the next big adventure on my laundry list (aka Bucket List) of things I really wanted (and needed) to do… and what better time than now. So, when I knew could wrangle 50 days away in the summer/fall of 2022 from work; and my hubby who was very willing to hold down the fort and take care of our 2 dogs and who was extremely supportive and encouraging me to go for it… “Why Not!!!” I never looked back and I am so very glad I embraced my “Why Not” along with my 20 other P2P riders. And the best part of it all for me is that WE ALL MADE IT.
Mike: At my retirement party I announced to my colleagues that I would be riding across the country with Trek Travel. I joked that this trip was the most difficult physical challenge I could think of that didn’t involve a death zone and bottled oxygen. I was excited to place a capstone on my athletic career and as a non-directed kidney donor, I wanted to inspire potential donors and allay their concerns. But those weren’t the only reasons. Over the course of my career, I’ve flown millions of miles, crisscrossing the county, peering out the window and wondering what it’s like down there. I’ve been especially intrigued by the west – looking down at the irrigated crop circles, like emerald islands in a sea of brown connected by two lane roads leading from one grain silo to the next. I wanted to ride those roads, cruise through those small towns and do it in the most visceral way possible, from the seat of a bike.
Jacque: As I neared my 60th birthday I was feeling inspired to do something big and adventurous. The beauty of life is its fragility, so while I have it I want to use it. I had an idea that I wanted to stretch my boundaries and engage in a process that pushed beyond what I thought was possible. When I first started dreaming of cycling across the country I wasn’t even a serious rider, however an encouraging voice from a fellow female rider and Trek Travel guide was the inspiration I needed to take the leap and start training. The flow we can all experience when we dig into the well of power within us to keep pushing through long rides is the biggest reason why I stayed the course. I rode across the southern route of the US and was hooked on the feeling of fortitude and resilience to get up and go every morning again and again and again. This second ride across the northern US I was seeking a sense of solidarity with my fellow riders through the demanding terrain. My passion to keep pedaling was fueled by a belief in myself, appreciation for my body and its capacity to carry me, and connection with the riders around me.
Sandy: I was fascinated with the idea of powering myself across this continent on my own two wheels. I am always amazed by the beautiful diversity in our land, and seeing it from a bike is different than from a car. It is a totally different experience! The changes in the topography of the land each day, like from the Columbia River Gorge to the wheat fields of Oregon. From the plains of South Dakota to the lush cool cliffs of Deadwood South Dakota. On a bike, there is more interaction with the locals as you ride by, both are more likely to greet each other and have a brief conversation. Or as in Wisconsin the shy wave of the Amish children walking on the side of the road as we rode next to them. There is also the sound of water as you ride next to a stream, lake or river. I will never forget the smell of pine in the air as we rode along the Clearwater river all day, the wheat blowing in the air with fine bits of it all over the road in eastern Oregon and the constant chirping of the prairie dogs in the Badlands.
There is also the challenge mentally, not just physically to be able to face every daily challenge. I knew this would be part of the trip and the challenge, but I didn’t appreciate the full extent of it until it was over. It is one of the things I look back on and feel a sense of accomplishment. The constant heat in South Dakota, the threat of headwinds, rain, bad breakfasts, detours on the route, a bike malfunction, a lumpy bed or noisy room air conditioner. I’ll always remember knowing that we faced every challenge with a happy spirit with guides who helped us solve the daily puzzle.
Carlin: Riding my bike across the country was a notion that stemmed from a conversation with a young man in a Friday morning boot camp at the Gym. He is/was a member of the royal family of the UAE – they figured out that he was gay and was sent to Switzerland for high school and to the US for college with gentle hints not to return. He is now a successful business man and is married to a physician. In our conversation he told me that his husband rode cross country in his college-med school “gap year”. He did it the hard way with paniers and camping but I resolved that I too would do the crossing. I trained hard and attempted to sign up in 2021 to find out that the trip was full. Thus I signed up for 2022, trained like hell, and had the absolute time of my life.
I expected a major physical challenge and was hoping at 64 years of age that I could rise to the challenge. It turned out that I was rewarded with new friendships that have continued after the conclusion of the ride and I got a chance to see the country and the beauty that can never be understood by driving or a fly over with a plane.
At the completion of the ride – I wished that I could continue to ride a century daily but life – being what it is – has had other plans. That said – I was able to bring joy to others by sharing my trip with hundreds of followers and have memories that I will treasure for the rest of my life. It is said that when life ends – you regret the things that you DON’T do not the things you do. I am 100% sure that this axiom is correct.
Enjoy luxurious accommodations handpicked for a refined experience. From signature spa treatments to special dining moments, you’ll be more than provided for— you’ll be pampered.
Explorer:
These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.
Combined:
On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of Explorer and Luxury hotels. Rest assured, no matter which hotel level you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.
Road: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Level 2:
Road: 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).
Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).
Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).
Level 3:
Road: 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).
Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).
Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).
Level 4:
Road: 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).
Gravel: 4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).
Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).
What are your trip styles?
Classic Bike:
Explore beautiful destinations with a curated blend of guided activities, local cuisine, handpicked accommodations, and itineraries to suit every traveler, from laid-back adventures to luxurious escapes.
Gravel:
Venture off the beaten path to unforgettable places, with fully-supported routes that combine gravel and paved roads in classic Trek Travel style.
Cross Country:
Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.
Pro Race:
See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.
Hiking & Walking:
Step into adventure with carefully designed routes, unparalleled hospitality, and deep-routed local connections.
Ride Camp:
Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.
Self-Guided:
Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.
Single Occupancy
Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself
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