Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) Adventure Champions are the vanguards of the adventure travel industry, having been members of ATTA and leaders in the community for a minimum of 15 years. They are true believers in the power of adventure travel and have made an impact on the direction of ATTA and on the industry as a whole. To honor their commitment to their ethos and lasting contribution to the adventure travel industry, we are spotlighting Adventure Champions through a series of interviews.
Summer Feet Cycling & Walking
Inbound / Outbound Tour Operator
Headquarters: United States
ATTA Member Since 2008
Introducing Norman Patry, Founder and "Big Toe" of Summer Feet Cycling & Walking:
Summer Feet is a 23-year-old tour operator based in Portland, Maine, USA. We offer multi-day and self-guided cycling tours, guided hiking tours, and cycling day trips.
Why have you stayed an ATTA member for 15+ years?
Our ATTA membership has helped us in many ways. We have grown our business through partnerships we have developed, In addition, we have developed relationships with many members of the media and have made many friends who we often rely on for advice.
How has your company changed over the last 15 years?
We are constantly evolving; 15 years ago, we did not have day trip products or a bike rental business. Those are both now robust parts of our company. We also have expanded our international tour offerings and created partnerships to white-label cycling and hiking tours for other operators.
What is the greatest force that drives you to work everyday?
I love what I do, and I get to share my passion.
What gives you hope about the next generation of adventure travel leaders?
They are very values-oriented and understand how adventure travel can have a positive economic and environmental impact on the world.
What is your advice for young adventure travel companies?
Get involved with the ATTA and other groups locally and globally. Business opportunities can come from a variety of sources and often come from the least expected places.
What gets you excited about the future of adventure travel?
Adventure travel has so many benefits. It can reduce political biases, provide economic benefits to many communities, and engage people in nature.
