Hiking Guidelines

This Information is sourced from the Quadra Island Outdoor Club until we finalize our own list

Hiking Guidelines

Trip Participant Guidelines and Responsibilities

1.Safety is the prime consideration. Be realistic in assessing your skill, fitness and equipment. Have good quality equipment and gear. Participating in trips beyond your ability can put you and the group at risk. Be prepared. You must be self-sufficient, including a first aid kit. Bring extra clothing in case of changeable weather. Bring adequate food and water. Plan for contingencies. Always exercise good judgement. Respect the decisions of the coordinator and the group. Stay with the group.

2. Membership is not an entitlement to participate in every trip. To participate in a trip which is “challenging” or “strenuous” or any multi-day trip, you must have previously taken a “moderate” hike with the Club, demonstrate adequate fitness and have appropriate equipment. The trip coordinator’s decision about participation on a trip is final.

3. Communicate with the trip coordinator and with the group. Let the trip coordinator know that you want to go on the trip as early as possible. Keep in touch about the status of the trip. Participate in the pre-trip briefing, so that you are familiar with the plan. Sign the trip sign-up sheet. If you are new to the club, let the coordinator know your level of experience. Tell the coordinator if you are having difficulties on the trip. Meet and know everyone on the trip.

It is strongly recommended that you share with the trip coordinator information about any medical condition that you have that could affect your participation on a trip. If you have a condition that could result in your not being able to communicate with the trip coordinator, you MUST have information about that condition in an envelope in your pack or drybag, as well as contact information.

4. Minimize your impact on the environment. Participate in car pools and share the expenses. Pack out all garbage. Avoid contaminating drinking water sources. Do not approach wildlife.

5. Dogs are permitted on some trips, at the discretion of the trip coordinator. The participation of dogs must not compromise the safety of the hikers. All dogs must be sociable with people and other dogs. Dogs must be under control at all times, either at the side of the owner or ahead of the group. The trails are usually narrow and dogs are not permitted to run through the group. The conduct of the dog is entirely the responsibility of the owner and not the Quadra Island Outdoor Club. The trip coordinator may ask the owner of any dog who does not meet these standards to withdraw from the trip.

6. It is hoped that every active, experienced member of the Club will coordinate several outings each membership year. This can be done by pairing up with another member. Mentoring for new members is available.

Trip Coordinator Guidelines and Responsibilities

1. Pre-trip organization

Provide the Club with basic information about the trip: date, description, rating, departure times and place, whether dogs are permitted, maximum size of group, your name, phone number and e-mail.

Prepare a list of participants from e-mail sign-up. Talk with new members about their level of experience before the trip. The minimum number of participants on a trip is three.

Have your gear in order. Maps and tracking devices may be helpful. The coordinator needs to carry the Club Personal Locator Beacon, or other satellite calling device, on every Club hike where cell coverage is not assured. Familiarize yourself with how to use it..

Verify access road and trail conditions, where necessary and possible.