Hike Leader Guidelines 

                                                            Trilogy at Vistancia Hiking Club
                                                       Guidelines for Long Hike Coordinators
                                                                     
Pre Hike: 
  • You, as the hike coordinator will receive the hike description and should make corrections/additions as needed.
  • Be familiar with the hiking trail and how to get there. For your first couple of hikes as a new coordinator, be sure an experienced coordinator is along to offer guidance and assistance.​ 
  • Hike leaders should meet at the Kiva Club at 7:45 AM on  the hike day, to make sure hikers who need a ride are taken care of.  The hike leader will leave the Kiva Club at 8:00 AM
  • At the Kiva Club or the trailhead:
    • The hike description will state whether the hikers will be offered a chance to have lunch in a restaurant or will be eating on the trail. Drivers should make sure they tell their passengers if they intend to go to lunch.
    • Remind hikers to wait at the trail-head for the hike coordinator​.
    • Welcome new hikers.
  • Verify the hike headcount before, during, and at the end of the hike. (Have the hike list with you).
  • If lunch at a restaurant is offered, coordinators should arrange for the lunch a day or two before hike and call the restaurant morning of the hike with the number of guests and the ETA.​
  • When calling the restaurant, remind them that we need separate checks.
At the Trailhead:
  • Do a head count again.
  • Assign a designated sweep and provide a walkie talkie.
  • Provide a quick overview of the hike.
  • Remind hikers to stay with the group during the hike.
  • Remind drivers to account for all their passengers.
On Hikes:
  • Hiker safety is a top priority.
  • Have a cell phone with you.
  • Have THC provide first-aid kit.
  • Have THC provide walkie talkies for yourself and one for the sweep hiker.
  • Stop for short rests and head counts occasionally, especially after uphill climbs.
  • ​Remind hikers to hydrate.