VIP 8 Hour Back Country Can-Am Experience

This experience made our article of What Are The Best Tours & Things To Do In Franklin? Our Top 8 Picks.

Discover Tennessee’s Back Country on an 8-Hour Guided Can-Am Experience

Imagine a full day of exploring winding back roads, crossing rivers, and discovering waterfalls—all aboard a rugged side-by-side vehicle. That’s exactly what the VIP 8 Hour Back Country Can-Am Experience offers. Designed for those craving an authentic adventure away from tourist crowds, this tour promises an intimate, hands-on journey through Middle Tennessee’s scenic wilderness.

Based in Franklin, Tennessee, this tour stands out for its small-group format—no mobs of travelers here, just a maximum of four adventurers per guide. We love that this means plenty of personalized attention and the chance to really connect with the landscape. The highlight? A full eight hours of guided exploration, crossing water, visiting historic sites, and soaking in some breathtaking views.

One potential consideration is the price point—at $510 per person, it’s an investment. But for those craving a uniquely local experience with knowledgeable guides and a variety of scenic stops, it’s a worthwhile one. Perfect for families, older couples, or anyone eager to see Tennessee from a new perspective, this tour offers a genuine slice of the rural beauty that makes Middle Tennessee special.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy ensures personalized guidance and fewer crowds.
• Full-day adventure covers around eight hours of scenic driving, water crossings, and historical site visits.
• All-season activity — suitable for any weather, with rain gear and jackets recommended.
• Includes safety gear such as helmets and goggles, and bottled water to keep you refreshed.
• Flexible options to drive or ride, depending on your comfort and experience.
• Lively and knowledgeable guides make the journey informative as well as fun.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

This tour is designed for those who want to get off the beaten path and really experience Tennessee’s rural charm. Starting at 4770 TN-50, Williamsport, the journey begins with a thorough briefing on how to operate the Side by Side (SXS), safety rules, and trail etiquette. This preparation ensures that everyone, whether driver or passenger, feels confident and secure before hitting the trail.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Cover

The guide leads you through a variety of terrains—rolling hills, water crossings, and forested paths. One of the tour’s biggest draws is the chance to cross waterfalls and rivers—not just view them from afar, but actually drive through water, making for fun and sometimes splashy moments. The routes wind through the back country of Middle Tennessee, taking in old farms, barns, and even an old ghost town, giving you a real sense of rural life and history.

Along the way, you’ll stop at several water crossings and waterfalls, which are the highlight for many. The guide’s knowledge adds context to each stop, whether it’s a scenic waterfall or a site of local historical significance. The tour also includes a visit to an old country store or restaurant—a perfect place to pause for lunch and soak in the local atmosphere (note that lunch is at your own expense).

The Vehicles and Safety

The new Side by Sides (SXS) are modern and well-maintained, with each able to hold one driver and up to four passengers. Helmets and goggles are provided, emphasizing safety. Everyone is required to wear helmets, goggles, and seat belts when the vehicle is moving—an important detail that adds peace of mind.

Group Size and Flexibility

With a maximum of four travelers per guide, the tour offers a personalized experience. If you’re comfortable driving, you can take the wheel; otherwise, you can simply enjoy riding along. The guide will tailor the experience to your comfort level, making it ideal for families or couples seeking a relaxed but adventurous day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price are the use of the SXS, helmets, goggles, bottled water, and all taxes and fees. You’ll need to bring your own sunscreen, bug spray, weather-appropriate clothing, and lunch. The tour runs in any season, but good weather is recommended—if rain or storms threaten, the experience might be canceled or rescheduled.

What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews speak volumes about this experience. One traveler, John D., called it “the best experience ever,” noting how the guide Kevin made everyone feel like family. He praised the local hospitality and the overall fun of crossing water and exploring scenic spots. The consistent 5-star ratings reflect the enjoyment and satisfaction of recent participants.

Another review appreciated the knowledgeable guides and stunning views, emphasizing that the tour’s personal touch made all the difference. Many travelers highlight the delicious stops at country stores, which add to the authentic feel of the day.

The Value of This Adventure

At $510 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest activity in town. However, the value lies in the personalized guided experience, the chance to drive or ride depending on your preference, and the variety of sights packed into one day. The included safety gear and bottled water also contribute to a seamless, worry-free adventure.

Compared to larger, more commercial tours, this experience stands out for its small groups and local atmosphere. It’s an activity that offers more than just scenery—it’s about making memories with a guide who knows the area, sharing water crossings and waterfalls, and relishing the freedom of Tennessee’s back roads.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures in a relaxed setting. Families with older children or couples who appreciate scenic drives and historic sites will find it especially appealing. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a hands-on, authentic Tennessee experience—away from crowds but with plenty of comfort and safety.

If you’re seeking a unique, full-day adventure that combines adventure, history, and stunning landscapes, this tour ticks all those boxes. Just remember to dress appropriately for the weather and be ready for a bit of water splashing fun.

Final Thoughts

The VIP 8 Hour Back Country Can-Am Experience offers an engaging, personalized way to explore Tennessee’s rural back roads. With a balance of scenic water crossings, waterfalls, and historical sites, it’s a trip that resonates with travelers craving genuine outdoor adventure. The small-group format, knowledgeable guides, and flexible riding options make it a standout choice for those who want to see Tennessee from a new perspective.

While it’s an investment, the opportunity to drive or ride through water crossings, explore old ghost towns, and enjoy the peaceful countryside makes it a memorable value. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, history buff, or simply in search of a day away from the city, this tour promises a fun, authentic, and scenic escapade.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed for travelers 18 and older due to the requirement for a valid driver’s license to operate the SXS. For families with older children, it can be a fun and memorable experience, but check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

How long does the tour last?
Expect around eight hours of guided exploration, giving you plenty of time to enjoy water crossings, waterfalls, and scenic stops without feeling rushed.

What should I wear?
Weather-appropriate attire is recommended. Wear comfortable clothes that can get dirty or wet—think layers, and bring rain gear if rain is forecast. Helmets and goggles are provided, but sunglasses or sunscreen are optional.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included in the tour price, but there’s a stop at an old country store or restaurant where you can purchase food and drinks.

Can I drive the vehicle?
Yes, if you’re comfortable, you can choose to drive the SXS. Drivers must be 18+ with a valid driver’s license and present a credit card at check-in. Otherwise, you can simply ride along.

Is this activity suitable in winter or rain?
The tour is open in all seasons, but weather can affect the experience. Poor weather might lead to cancellation or rescheduling, so check the forecast beforehand.

What safety measures are in place?
Helmets, goggles, and seat belts are provided, and safety instructions are given before starting. Vehicles are modern and well-maintained.

What makes this tour different from other outdoor adventures?
Its small group size and personalized guidance create an authentic, immersive experience that big tours cannot match. Plus, crossing waterfalls and exploring historic sites adds a unique touch.

How many people can fit in each SXS?
Each Side by Side can hold one driver and up to four passengers. The tour limits to a maximum of four travelers per guide for comfort and safety.

What’s the best way to book?
Booking through Viator or directly via Fisher’s Off-Road Tours guarantees your spot. It’s advisable to reserve in advance, especially in peak seasons.

This tour is a solid pick for travelers who want to combine adventure, history, and stunning scenery in one memorable day. If you’re looking for an authentic Tennessee experience that’s active and engaging, this guided SXS tour hits the mark.