By Everett Potter

Backroads has been the world’s largest active travel company since pretty much forever. Founded in 1979 by Tom Hale, the company has become synonymous with hiking, biking and walking vacations.

They have a global reach and a pioneering spirit when it comes to new technologies – think e-bikes — and new destinations. If there’s a common thread, it’s the quality of the trips the company offers. The proof is that Backroads has an exceptionally high repeat factor for the adventure travel industry. It’s not uncommon for guests to return with their family and friends and book a private trip for themselves the next time around.

I caught up with Tom Hale recently and asked him to reflect as Backroads approaches its 40^th anniversary … continue reading