Outing Participant Responsibilities
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The responsibilities given below are extremely important for the safety and enjoyment of all involved.
Know Your Physical Abilities and Limitations
Read the hike information carefully, particularly the class (A, B,C) trail conditions such as rocks, roots and gravel, or a steep ascent or descent may affect your ability to enjoy a hike. Try easier hikes before trying harder ones.
A. Challenging, 2.5 miles per hour, strenuous with long ups and downs
B. Moderate, about 2 miles per hour, with moderate up and down trails
C. Easy, 1.5 miles per hour, generally flat terrain
For your own safety and the safety of others, don’t overestimate your ability or underestimate the difficulty of the hike. Consider the following:
- Have you done a similar hike recently similar in total uphill, length, and total elevation gain?
- If so, how long did it take for you to complete it?
- Are you comfortable hiking at the forecast temperature range for the hike day?
Outing Participant Responsibilities
Our Volunteer Outing Leaders accept responsibility for planning and guiding safe hikes for people with diverse capabilities and in a range of conditions.
Participants in our outings also have responsibilities to ensure a safe and fun time for themselves, their group, and for leaders. Here are some tips for contributing to good, safe outings for all.
Fitness
Know your level of fitness and limitations. The trip leader will ask questions about your experience, fitness, equipment, medical condition, expectations, etc. Be Honest! With yourself and with the leader.
Departure
Please sign up with the leader via iVolunteer for all Chapter activities. Do not simply show up at the designated meeting place. Arrive at the designated meeting place before the stated departure time and be ready to go (boots on, packs packed, etc.).
Pets
Pets are no longer allowed on outings (as per ADK liability insurance).
Etiquette
Please stay with the group or ask to proceed and stop at each intersection, then wait for the entire group to re-assemble before moving on. Each participant should keep those in front or behind in view.
Equipment
You are expected to carry your own and adequate equipment, water and food. If in doubt about what to bring, ask the trip leader.
Suggestions for All Seasons
Water: 2 – 3 quarts, layered clothing (NO cotton), extra socks, hat, shell (wind & rain), extra sweater or jacket, headlamp, gloves, sturdy boots, sunglasses/sunscreen (SPF 15), first aid kit, food, map (physical or online map).
Winter Gear
Foot Traction for icy conditions, i.e. some form of spiky pull-on over your boots.
Cancellations
Let the trail leader know as soon as possible if you are unable to attend your planned activity. Many have waiting lists.
Mobile Phones
It is common courtesy to keep cell phones turned off when on the trail with a group.
Membership at the Adirondack Mountain Club
ADK members are vital to the success of our mission. As direct supporters, members are connected with opportunities to engage with the ADK community and to give back to the public lands and waters we all love.
