Frequently Asked Questions

Only for the Dual Sport and BMW programs - you will need a M license. Other than that, most of our guests are first-time riders!
Whether you're trying out dirt biking, ATVs, SXSs, or snowmobiling, our interactive lessons are designed to teach you the basics before hitting the trails.

We tailor our programs to match your comfort level and experience – and encourage men and women of all ages to participate.

Children aged 6 and older can ride ATVs and dirt bikes, with each child placed on an age-appropriate vehicle. For SXS (Side-by-Side) rides, passengers must be at least 6 years old, while drivers must be 18 or older and have prior car driving experience.

Mini snowmobile rides start at age 6, and children between 6 and 8 years old can ride as passengers with an adult driver.

Youth trail riders may start at age 9. The minimum age to use a BMW in one of our off-road courses is 25. Men, women, and teens can ride full-size snowmobiles.

There is no strict weight or height limit; however, we match each rider to a vehicle that is the right size for them. Riders must be able to safely reach the controls and handle the vehicle. If you have any concerns, please call ahead, and we will help ensure we have a machine suited to your needs.

For most motorcycle courses offered through SMART Adventures, you are welcome to bring your own bike. Please contact us for specific requirements.

For summer riding on ATVs, SXS, Dual Sport, motocross, dirt bikes, and similar vehicles, we provide helmets, motocross boots, chest protectors, elbow and knee pads, goggles, and more, although you are welcome to bring your own gear if you prefer. Depending on the temperature, dress lightly, as we provide protective gear that goes over your clothing. Don’t forget sunscreen!

For winter snowmobile rides, you will need a helmet, balaclava, and any supplemental outerwear if needed. Please bring your own winter coat, pants, gloves, and boots, though we do have limited sizes available to lend if necessary.

We love seeing families and friends ride together, as we are a family business ourselves! While we begin in smaller groups organized by skill and age, for our half-day programs we can bring participants back together once everyone is confident and comfortable on their machines.

For the 2-hour rides, we cannot guarantee that your group will all be together, as safety comes first. You can learn more on our Corporate / Group page.

We offer a full fleet of top-quality off-road vehicles suitable for every age and skill level.

These include dirt bikes and motocross bikes in all sizes, ATVs for kids, youth, and adults, Wolverine SXS units that can accommodate up to four passengers, snowmobiles including child-specific SRX 120 and Snowscoot models, and BMW GS bikes, which are available only for our Dual Sport and SMART Performance official BMW Training courses.

Yes, all SMART Adventures instructors are highly experienced riders trained in safety protocols and coaching techniques. Many have advanced riding credentials, and all are passionate about making your ride both safe and enjoyable.

Lunch is required only for full-day programs such as the snowmobile certification course, maintenance course, Dual Sport, or BMW programs. Participants may bring their own lunch or join the group off-site.

While participants are responsible for their own food, we do have water available for a donation, with all proceeds going to our favorite charity, Hospice Simcoe. Feel free to bring granola bars or other snacks.

Yes, we ride in rain, shine, and mud during spring, summer, and fall, and we embrace snow and cold in winter. All vehicles and gear are designed to handle the elements, and we ensure the experience remains safe and fun. Rain gear is provided, and in cases of extreme or unsafe weather conditions, programs will be rescheduled.

Absolutely! We regularly host corporate team-building events, wedding parties, family reunions, teams, and clubs. Contact us for group pricing, bookings, or custom ride options.

Unfortunately, this is not possible, as we must follow specific safety rules on our Simcoe County trails.

Group sizes vary, typically accommodating eight people or more for SXS or ATV groups. Our low instructor-to-student ratio ensures more attention is given to skill building and safety.

Online bookings can be paid via PayPal, and we accept e-transfers and credit card payments for most courses. All bookings are paid in advance unless there is a special circumstance.

Adventure bike courses, Dual Sport, and BMW Two-Day courses are booked directly with us following a brief screening phone call 705-835-2790 x1288, with payment accepted via credit card or e-transfer.

We have a 48-hour cancellation policy for refunds or rescheduling. In cases where courses are cancelled due to extreme weather and rescheduling is not possible, participants will receive a full refund.

Minor scratches from off-road riding are normal, and we do not charge for them. If parts must be replaced or repaired after your ride, you are responsible only for the replacement cost of the parts. Optional insurance is available for youth and adult dirt bikes. A $1,000 damage deposit is required for ATVs, UTVs, and BMWs before riding.

This full-day course, provided by the Canada Safety Council (CSC), is an optional certification for riders who want to learn trail rules and best safety practices for snowmobiles, ATVs, UTVs, and off-road vehicles. It is not mandatory for participation in SMART Adventures recreational programs.

Certification is required if operating a snowmobile, ATV, UTV, or dirt bike as part of your job, as required by employers. Call us for upcoming dates.

Every participant must complete a digital waiver before riding. Please remember to complete your waiver online by visiting the SMART Adventures Waiver page.

If you’re traveling to Smart Adventures from out of town, you may want to arrive the night before your training.

We’re located near the beautiful Horseshoe Resort, just north of Barrie in Central Ontario. Guests booking at Horseshoe can use the code SMART to receive 20% off the best available rate on Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday nights. Book online here.

Alternatively, Carriage Ridge Resort is next to our facility and offers 10% off for our customers with the code LAAT. Call 705-835-0059 to reserve. Other nearby options include KOA Camping in Craighurst or accommodations in Barrie, just 20 minutes away.

Yes, gift certificates are very popular for any occasion and make for lasting memories. Gift vouchers are available online through Bookeo, and you can find them on the top right side of the page. You may also call 705-835-2790 ext.1288 or email smartadventures@horseshoeresort.com for details.

Be well-rested, hydrated, and dressed appropriately for the weather. Arrive 30 minutes early for a briefing session where instructors will explain what to expect and provide additional preparation tips. Participants must not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol or bring these substances onto the property.

Yes, we are not located directly at Horseshoe Resort but just down the road next door. We are on Line 3 North and share a driveway with Carriage Ridge Resort.

Enter this address into your smartphone or GPS: 3303 Line 3 N, Shanty Bay, ON. Turn left into our driveway, not right into Carriage Ridge Resort, and look for the SMART Adventures sign.