Guided ATV rides at a campground or lodge

Holidaymakers staying at the partner site, plus small groups who book ahead.

Price per person per guided ride, often with a revenue share or site fee paid to the landowner.

• Safe ATV riding and guiding
• Talking to groups and keeping them safe
• Basic machine maintenance
• Building relationships with local businesses

• Commercial liability insurance for ATV rides can be costly and hard to get, so check before committing
• Provincial off-highway vehicle rules on registration, helmets and rider ages
• Written permission from the landowner, and Crown land permits if trails cross public land
• Seasonal demand and weather can leave you with quiet weeks
• Wear and tear and repair costs on the machines
• Check whether you need a business licence from the municipality where you operate

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $12,000 to $40,000, depending on how many ATVs you buy, the trailer and helmets you need, and your insurance. The host supplies the trails and guests.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how many guests the partner site brings and how often you run rides. Seasonal demand and weather can mean quiet weeks.

Check commercial liability insurance cost and availability, provincial off-highway vehicle rules on registration, helmets and rider ages, and get written permission from the landowner. Also check Crown land permits if trails cross public land, and any municipal business licence.