You can tell it’s a tourist by the way that it is.

Have you ever driven past a grove of trees and found yourself muttering, "You can tell it's an aspen by the way that it is"? If so, you're not alone. "Neature Walk" is undoubtedly one of the most iconic YouTube videos out there, and for good reason. As someone who finds nature pretty neat myself, I often catch myself quoting lines from the video whenever I'm out and about.

But what does "Neature Walk" have to do with tourism? Well, in my view, it epitomizes the spirit of people who want to share their little patch of Earth with the world. If you haven't seen the video yet, I highly recommend giving it a watch. One of the best lines from the opening is, "For me, neature is one of the neatest things on this planet, that's why Rodney and I started Neature Walk, because we want everyone to know how neat nature is... instead of just me and Rodney knowin' it." It's a sentiment that resonates deeply with those of us who work in the tourism industry.

Outfitters and guides aren't here to gatekeep public lands; they're here to show them off to those who appreciate them. One of the greatest benefits of working with these professionals is the opportunity to become educated while adventuring. Sure, the internet is a valuable resource, but there's something irreplaceable about personal experience. Nature's beauty simply can't be captured through a screen.

Using a guide streamlines your adventure, making it safer and more enjoyable. We always recommend using a guide or outfitter for your first trip to an area. Not only does this support small businesses and give you the inside scoop on destinations, but it also educates you on how to stay safe in the great outdoors.

Of course, being a responsible tourist means more than just hiring a guide. It means being prepared for the natural elements of your desired destination. Take Stanley, Idaho, for example. People often forget to consider factors like weather and elevation when visiting this beautiful town. The elevation means the weather, although it may be mild in your neighborhood, is completely unpredictable and extreme. Throughout the year Search & Rescue is called to recover climbers, skiers, and backpackers who underestimated the elements of the Sawtooth Mountains. With a little research or guidance from a local business, you can ensure you have everything you need for a safe and enjoyable trip.

And let's not forget about the animals. Many tourists long to see or interact with wildlife, but it's important to do so responsibly. Feeding deer might seem harmless, but it can have serious consequences for both the animals and the environment. In places like McCall, Idaho, where deer have become desensitized to human interactions, ordinances have been put in place to protect both the animals and the community.

So, the next time you embark on a neature walk of your own, remember to be a good tourist. Be prepared, respect nature, and marvel at its beauty. After all, as the video aptly puts it, "It's not too often you get all this neatness in one location." But with responsible tourism practices, we can ensure that these neat destinations remain pristine for generations to come.