Devon Hiking Spa | Frequently Asked Questions
Devon Hiking Spa | Frequently Asked Questions

Please let us know if you don't find the answer to your question below.

What is included in the price of the Five Day Fit Health into Life program?

The price includes four nights of deluxe accommodations, all meals and snacks, guided hikes, fitness classes, one massage, informational sessions, airport arrival and departure shuttles, and many little extras (including water bottles, a backpack, t-shirt, baseball hat, pedometer, and exercise resistance band). In addition, all taxes and service charges are included in the price.

What is not included?

Airfare, alcoholic beverages, additional spa services, private consultations, and personal expenses are not included.

What is the typical daily schedule at Fit Health into Life?

Please click here to see our sample daily schedule.

The program sounds great. Can I come next week?

Because Fit Health into Life operates out of a resort hotel, we must reserve rooms and set dates well in advance. You will find the date and price of our next available program on Our Location page, in the left column.

Should I be worried about my fitness level?

No. Our program is designed to accommodate all fitness levels. We offer three levels of hiking and our fitness classes are appropriate for all ability levels. You will enjoy our program no matter what shape you are in. However, you may have more fun if you are in better shape.

What if I am a very slow (or very fast) hiker?

We provide enough hiking options so you can enjoy hiking at your own pace. We have enough guides so you will feel comfortable taking breaks when and where you want.

How many hiking guides do you have?

On average, we have one guide for every three participants. Guides carry additional water, snacks, medical supplies, two-way radios, and cell phones, and they provide assistance as needed. Our hiking guides are outgoing, friendly people. Their primary goal is to make your vacation as hassle-free and fun as possible.

How many massages are included? Are other body treatments and salon services available?

Our five-day, four-night package includes one massage. Our six-day, five-night package includes two massages. We offer Swedish and Deep Tissue Massage. We're happy to arrange additional massages for you at a rate of $80 per hour. Body, facial, and nail treatments are also available and can be booked directly through the resort.

Do you offer private fitness or nutrition consultations?

We do offer private fitness and nutrition consultations. Consultation fees range from $80-$95.

What type of informational sessions do you offer?

Rather than conduct formal lectures, we practice "mindful eating" at one meal, we discuss healthy eating over breakfast, we navigate restaurant menus each evening before dinner, and we discuss physical activity while moving our feet on the hiking trail. Eating and hiking with a registered dietitian, participants have ample opportunity ask questions and learn about dining out healthfully, controversial issues in nutrition, the psychology of eating, fad diets, etc. In addition, we offer an interactive supermarket tour for those interested in learning simple, effective guidelines to follow in order to make the best possible choices in the grocery store.

What is your food philosophy?

We advocate a healthy, well-balanced diet comprised mostly of unrefined, complex carbohydrates (fruits, vegetables, and whole grains) complemented by lean protein (fish, chicken, turkey, eggs, beans, nuts, soy products, and nonfat/low-fat dairy) and unsaturated fat.

We eat most breakfasts at the resort, most lunches on the trail, and dinners at local restaurants. Armed with the most up-to-date nutrition knowledge, you make your own food choices. We encourage you to ask questions in the restaurant, such as: How is this prepared? What type of sauce is used? Can I get this grilled instead of fried? We also help you feel comfortable leaving food on your plate (if the portion is excessive). You learn that eating out can be fun and healthy, when you make informed choices.

Please let us know about any food allergies or intolerances you may have. We can accommodate all special dietary needs.

We encourage you to drink at least eight eight-ounce glasses of water each day (64 ounces). To stay hydrated, we recommend choosing water instead of sodas and fruit juices, limiting your caffeine intake, and avoiding alcohol.

All meals and non-alcoholic beverages are included in your Fit Health into Life vacation package. Alcoholic beverages are not included in your vacation package. If you choose to order an alcoholic beverage at dinner, please ask for a separate check.

What gear do I need?

You will need a good pair of hiking boots or hiking shoes. If you have had previous ankle injuries or are predisposed to ankle problems, you will want to choose a light-weight hiking boot, with ankle support. If you have strong ankles, you may prefer hiking shoes, which are likely to be more comfortable than boots. Comfort is very important. Please break in your boots/shoes before the trip.

We recommend wearing clothing made of synthetic material (such as polyester and polypropylene), rather than cotton, so you stay dry, warm, and comfortable. Synthetic clothing is better at wicking sweat away from the body so your clothes don't become heavy or cumbersome. We also recommend layering your clothing. It is much easier to maintain a comfortable body temperature by adding or removing one layer at a time. Please bring a light rain jacket as well.

Devon Hiking Spa will provide you with a backpack, two water bottles, and a "wicking" t-shirt. Please consult our Packing List when preparing for your trip.

What are your deposit and cancellation policies?

Please see Our Policies page.

Who is your average customer?

Our customers include solo travelers (about 60%), couples (about 10%), and people traveling with a friend/relative (about 30%). Most participants range in age from their 20s to 60s and they come from the east cost, the west coast, and everywhere in between. Although we have a high percentage of female guests, men enjoy the program equally as much!

Should I be nervous about traveling on my own?

No. About 60% of our participants travel on their own. Fit Health into Life at Devon Hiking Spa is ideal for solo travelers. You will enjoy the group camaraderie and the ability to focus on your own needs.

I'm traveling on my own but I don't want to pay extra for my own room. Will you pair solo travelers with roommates upon mutual request?

We are happy to pair solo travelers with roommates of the same gender upon mutual request. Please give us advance notice if you would like us to match you with another solo traveler.

Are private trips available?

Yes. Fit Health into Life would love to host your corporate retreat, family reunion, bachelorette party, milestone birthday or anniversary. You choose the dates and we'll take care of the details. We’ll tailor the program to meet the needs of your group. You can include golf, tennis, hiking, lounging at the pool, shopping, hot air balloon rides, the world-famous Sonora desert museum, star gazing, and/or relaxing spa services. Your group will enjoy our beautiful Tucson location, deluxe accommodations, excellent meals, and friendly staff.

Where and when do I meet the group?

We meet at Tucson International Airport at 1:00 PM on the day of arrival. We shuttle you to the hotel where you will have time to check in and get settled before our introductory meeting at 3:00 PM. If you are driving to the resort or arriving early, we'll meet you just inside the main entrance of the The Lodge at Ventana Canyon at 3:00 PM.

Can I purchase a gift certificate for a friend?

Absolutely! A Fit Health into Life gift certificate is the ultimate birthday, thank you, or congratulations gift. You can purchase a gift certificate in any dollar amount on our Gift Certificate page.

Where can I find reputable information about nutrition and fitness?

We have listed our favorite nutrition and fitness resources on our Hiking Spa Links page.

What is your privacy policy?

If you provide us with information via one of our online forms, we will use that information only to communicate with you. We will not sell or provide your private information to any other parties.