Duane Simmons
Tour Guide
MEMBER SINCE
2025
HOME STATE
TN
Who is Duane?
Duane grew up in a medium size town in upper east Tennessee bordering Virginia, was an Eagle scout and played HS sports. After graduating from the University of Tennessee in Computer Science, Go Vols, he began his first career in the Computer Industry. But there just wasn’t enough vacation time in the corporate world. So, to hike more, he became self-employed as Catastrophic Insurance Adjuster, working only 2 to 4 months a year under extreme pressure. More time for hiking and biking though! After moving around for many years, he moved to Knoxville where he met his wonderful wife, Angela. He is actively involved their church, loves the outdoors, hates yard work, and loves to travel.
Q & A
Q.
First Bike:
A.
A toy tractor with pedals. Never really got very far on that thing. Always wanted a trailer for it though.
Q.
Favorite Book:
A.
Chuck Yeager's autobiography.
Q.
Favorite Movie:
A.
Christmas Vacation
Q.
Cycle Hero:
A.
Bicycle Adventures Guides. Ever since I took my first trip with BA, I have wished I had known of careers like this when I was younger.
Q.
Favorite Vacation Destination:
A.
Anywhere with mountains. I do enjoy traveling with my wife, Angela. Two of our best vacations, ever, were with Bicycle Adventures. We spent two weeks in France in 2024, spending the first week on the Bike and Barge BA trip with James. Great Trip! The other was a month in New Zealand with 10 days riding with Todd circling the South Island. We also enjoy ski vacations.
Q.
If I had a superpower:
A.
I have a Super Power, "I can turn Misery into Fun". My wife says if I'm not miserable, I'm not having fun. Hiking in the rain, winter camping, riding my bike up hill, walking to school barefooted in the snow, uphill both ways. Legend has it.
Q.
Where you will find me when not working/guiding:
A.
I LOOOVE Backpacking! Primarily Wilderness Areas, but I will hike anywhere I can get out for several days.
Q.
If I could have coffee or beer with anyone, who would it be:
A.
All of my Best Friends. I have several close friends who I have known for over 50 years, since grade school. Love getting us all together and shooting the ####. Can we all have Sweet Tea? We are from the South.
Q.
Volunteer Activities:
A.
When not guiding or traveling with my wife, I spend 2 days a week working with Knoxville's Homeless population. I also manage the Benevolence programs at our church and I Love Ringing the Bell for the Salvation Army every year during the Christmas Season.
Q.
What do I want to be known for as a BA staff member/guide:
A.
Just a real friendly and happy person.
