Hike Leader Training
Hike leader training is provided for new and veteran (as a required refresher) leaders every two years. This year’s training starts at 9 a.m. on Saturday, August 16, at the Macon County Recreation Park Pavilion, near the tennis courts.
Club Hike Leader Manager Gail Lehman chose this setting to ensure the training is as experiential and hands-on as possible. Everything about being an NHC hike leader will be illustrated in real time, from how to prepare for and advertise your hike to what to talk about at the pre-hike parking lot meeting to who would make a good sweep. Because the training will end around lunchtime, participants (who must be club members) are encouraged to bring the snacks and drinks you’d normally bring when taking a day hike.
DID WE MENTION, YOU COULD WIN FABULOUS PRIZES!
Prior to the training, informational materials will be distributed to registrants via email. Those new to this volunteer opportunity are encouraged to review these materials thoroughly and come prepared. The individual judged by Gail and Katharine to be carrying the best supplied leader’s day pack will win a *free year’s membership. Hint: Read the Hike Leaders Guide cover to cover!
Current hike leaders, who are required to refresh their training every two years, are also eligible to win a *free membership. The leader who offers the most unique guidance to the new folks, as judged by Gail and Katharine, wins!
Nantahala Hiking Club volunteers conduct hikes on most Saturdays, Sundays, and occasional weekday hikes. Hiking with our club typically means someone agrees to carpool others to the trailhead. Carpooling helps minimize traffic on the roads and reduce our carbon footprint. Also, some trailheads have limited parking.
As a courtesy to the driver, you may wish to chip in for gas after the hike. We suggest 10 cents a mile as a fair return. Round-trip mileage is given in the description of each hike.
You do not need to be a member to hike with our Club. Families and friends are always welcome! The hike leader will let you know if their hike is appropriate for dogs and children.
Difficulty Ratings:
E: Easy: Short hike, little change in elevation gain.
M: Moderate: 4-6 mile hike, up to 1000’ elevation gain.
S: Strenuous: 6 miles or more, over 1000’ elevation gain.
VS: Very Strenuous
Meeting Point Abbreviations:
MP: Macon Plaza, Franklin (Food Lion)
WP: Westgate Plaza, Franklin (Burger King)
CBP: Ballpark, near Cashiers Post Office
CH: NHC Clubhouse, 173 Carl Slagle Road, Franklin
SMV: Smoky Mtn Visitor Center, Franklin, Georgia Road, 441S of town
- On all hiking trips, bring snacks and plenty of water.
- A hiking stick or trekking poles are optional
- Cotton clothing should be avoided in all seasons.
- Wear sturdy shoes or boots and bring rain gear.
- Guests are always welcome.
- Groups typically wait no longer than 5 minutes past the set meeting time before driving to the trailhead.
- Those carpooling are asked to contribute 10 cents per mile to the driver.
- “R/T” = round trip.
- Weather may cause changes to the schedule.
- All area codes are 828 unless noted.
- Reservations are required.
- Hike limit: Typically 20 people.
- Please check with the hike leader before bringing dogs or children.