Frequently asked questions
Do I need a bunch of fancy gear to participate?
No. Most of our hikes require minimal gear. However, closed-toed shoes and a bottle of water are non-negotiable. All hikes provided by One Star Hiking will include an equipment list. Failure to arrive to your scheduled hike without the provided hiking essentials will result in refusal of service without a refund.
I’m unsure of my level of fitness. How do I know if I’m fit enough to complete a hike?
Most of the hikes offered through One Star Hiking are considered easy to moderate in terms of trail length and difficulty. We also aim to move at a slower pace, so that all hikers have the opportunity to be fully immersed in the natural setting. If you’re looking to move at race pace - then we probably aren’t the hike experience you’re looking for.
Each of the hike series offered are designed to increase in challenge from month to month, with the Step into Nature series taking things at a more mindful slow and steady pace! For all other programs (except the Learn to Hike workshops), some hiking experience is recommended. A simple test is being able to walk a minimum of 30 minutes at a time in order to complete the simplest trail.
If you’re ever unsure, we’re always happy to chat with you beforehand! After all, the goal of every hike is to return safely and with a renewed love of nature!
What is your cancellation policy?
Life happens. We understand that no matter how much you plan, sometimes things just don’t go as hoped. Depending on how much notice you’re able to give us, the following refunds will be offered:
30 days or more - 100% refund, less a nominal service fee (as outlined at the time of booking)
14-29 days - 75% refund
7-13 days - 50% refund
No refund will be offered for cancellations of 6 days or less.
One Star Hiking has the right to refuse service, without refund, to any participant that arrives to the scheduled hike without the proper gear or that does not meet the minimum fitness criteria.
What happens if there’s a weather event on the day of our scheduled hike?
In the event of a weather event (heavy rain, thunderstorm, hurricane, heatwave, etc.) that would make it unsafe to proceed, One Star Hiking will work with you to reschedule your hike to another day or offer a partial refund. Rescheduled hikes must take place within the same year it was originally scheduled for.
For weather events that happen on a day of a series, Hike of the Month or workshop, an alternative date will be provided.
What if I’m running late?
All hikes will start at the time indicated at booking. It is important that you arrive on time. Some trails pass through agriculturally dense areas, which means you may be delayed by slow moving vehicles.
For private hikes, a waiting period of 30 minutes will be permitted. Failure to arrive within this time may result in the hike being cancelled, without refund. A contact number for your guide will be provided prior to your hike.
For group events and programs offered by One Star Hiking (hike series, Hike of the Month, workshops, etc.) all participants must arrive before the designated start time. If you arrive after the rules and safety talk has concluded, you will not be permitted to participate and you will not be offered a refund.
Do you provide transportation to and from the trailhead?
At this time, One Star Hiking does not provide transportation to or from the trailhead. It is your responsibility to arrange transport to your hike location.
Will I encounter ticks along my hike?
Tick populations have been increasing across Nova Scotia over the last number of years due to climate change. While every effort will be made to reduce the risk of tick bites, it is never guaranteed. Make sure to wear appropriate clothing and remain on the designated trail at all times in order to reduce this risk. Tick preparedness will be covered in the pre-hike information.
Are dogs permitted on hikes?
Dogs make excellent hiking buddies! However, they are not permitted on hikes with One Star Hiking at this time.
Can I bring my kids?
Any programs and workshops offered by One Star Hiking are for participants aged 18 and above, unless otherwise stated. Children under the age of 18 may be eligible to participate in private guided hikes depending on level of experience, trail selection and difficulty. As with all hiking experiences, a waiver for each participant must be completed prior to the start of the hike. One Star Hiking has the right to refuse the participation of children under the age of 18 on the day of your scheduled hike, without refund, if the primary guide does not feel the child can safely complete it.
What’s in a name?
The initial motivation behind the name One Star Hiking came from a conversation during a hike in the Fall of 2022. We were talking about how some of the local hiking trails has been reviewed - with positive reviews receiving one out of five stars and negative ones receive five out of five. Finding a bit of humour in this, the idea of One Star Hiking was born… and aiming to exceed your expectations became the original tagline. However, recognizing that not everyone will appreciate this tale, the name also has a deeper meaning - our connection to nature.
Without the natural world, we are in trouble. Nature provides us with all the nourishment we require to have healthy, happy lives and bodies. It’s the star of the show! And speaking of stars, the North Star, which is reflected in our logo, is the guiding light when lost. So, it too, is the one star you’ll want to know - especially when hiking in the early morning or later at night.
Still have a question?
We want to make sure all of your questions are answered before you book your hike with us. If you still have a question that’s not included in our FAQs, let us know! You can either fill our this form or contact us using the following methods:
Email: onestarhiking@gmail.com
Phone: (902) 300-3080