Hike leader guide

If you are a hike leader please review these guidelines to ensure you and the group are prepared for every step of the hike.

Remember that no pets are allowed on hikes.

Keep a keen eye out for conditions or events that might make the hike dangerous or uncomfortable for the group including inclement weather forecasts or closures. The Washington Trails Association website has up-to-date information on relevant hikes.
Ensure you have the ten essentials and a first aid kit in case of minor injuries.
Send out an email to the group with information about the hike two to three days beforehand. Please include the following information:
- Any changes from the scheduled hike
- Trail destination, mileage, elevation gain (this can all be found on our schedule)
- Conditions that may affect hikers’ decision to participate (weather, steepness, shade, creek crossings, etc.)
- Suggested gas donation (also included on the schedule)
- Meeting place and time
- (Optional) hike leader’s telephone number
Print out the waiver form.

Every hiker should sign the waiver prior to setting off.
Do a quick check of clothing and boots, particularly if rain is expected. In hot weather, check on water, hats, sunscreen. You can turn away any hiker who is poorly prepared.
Organize the carpooling amongst group members. This may require extra planning if the party plans to split up.
Ensure that all drivers have the appropriate park passes. More information on passes can be found on the Washington State Parks website.
Confirm with all drivers that they know how to get to their destinations. Map details and driving directions are available on our schedule page.

Check to make sure every hiker is present and sign in any independent arrivals.
Allow fellow hikers to introduce themselves to the group.
Review appropriate safety rules when necessary, including what to do in emergency situations.
Appoint a Sweep. The Sweep should not be a slow hiker, even though they’re in the back of the group, and no group member should ever be behind the Sweep.

Ensure that the pace is comfortable for all group members and consistently check to see if any group members need to rest and take a break.
Confirm that you have a clear line of sight to the Sweep.
If the trail forks, verify that all group members have taken the proper fork.
Be vigilant—is the group too spread out? Are any group members having difficulties? Does the team want to spend more time at viewpoints?
If the weather is cold the group shouldn’t rest for too long.
Have a strategy in case a hiker is unable to continue. Be prepared to abort the hike if necessary.

Confirm that all hikers have returned safely.
Ensure every driver’s car is able to start.
On forest roads, verify that all cars have reached the main road safely.
Record your total hike leader hours from BSAC to BSAC on the Sign-in/Liability Waiver Sheet. Turn in hike list at BSAC.
Compose and post a hike report (optional).

Bellingham Senior Trailblazers