WBV Hiking - New Hiker Information

New Hiker Information

New Hikers: First-time hikers should contact the Hike Leader before joining the group on any hikes.

Release Form: New hikers are required to sign a Release Form

Hiking Season: Mid-October through mid-April

Meeting Place: Lakes Recreation Center Parking Lot

Departure Time: 6:40 A.M. (need to arrive at parking lot 6:30-6:35 A.M.)

Transportation: Members carpool to the hiking trail. Volunteer drivers are reimbursed $0.15 per mile by each passenger based on the round-trip mileage. Passengers split any entrance fees or parking fees. If there is more than one car with an uneven number of hikers, drivers will split the mileage fees equally. Drivers will rotate. Members are encouraged to volunteer and take turns driving as needed.

Notification: If you plan to hike, notify the Hike Leader by 12:00 noon on the Wednesday before the Friday hike so arrangements can be made for transportation.

Required Gear:

Wear sturdy hiking boots, a hat and sunscreen.
Bring 2 quarts of water and a sack lunch.
Pack personal first-aid supplies (such as band aids, tape for blisters) and a card with your identification, emergency contact, any medications you take, allergies and blood type, if known.
Bring money to reimburse the driver. Correct change is appreciated.
Bring a hiking stick (optional).
Bring a clean pair of shoes or sandals to change into after the hike (optional).
Bring trail mix or a snack (optional).

Hiker Responsibilities:

Know your limits and physical capabilities. Do not embark on a hike that you are neither
prepared nor fit to complete.
Be prepared by bringing the required amount of water, food and gear for the hike.
Take full responsibility for your own safety. Exercise common sense and good judgment.
Don’t get carried away with your enthusiasm or tempt fate.
If you experience a problem during the hike, please say something to either the Leader
or Sweep.
Do not hike ahead of the Leader or behind the Sweep. Do not venture out on your own.
Stay on the trail. Do not take shortcuts, cut-off switchbacks, etc.
Stay to the right of the trail. Yield to equestrians. Downhill hikers always yield to uphill hikers.

Hiking Tips:

A hiker is at extreme risk for dehydration and exhaustion. Drinking above the recommended amount of water per day will assure that fluid levels are kept healthy until completion of the hike. A healthy trail mix consisting of dried fruit, nuts and berries will keep energy levels up throughout the hike.
Be aware of your surroundings and avoid close contact with snakes, scorpions and other wild animals.
Bring a lightweight windbreaker and gloves on chilly mornings.
Bring extra water and food other than what you will need for the hike in case of an emergency.
Other supplies that may be useful in an emergency include a compass, whistle, mirror, cord or rope, pocket knife, matches or lighter, flashlight, and additional first aid supplies such as an ace bandage w/clamps, aspirin, knee brace, first aid cream, bandana, tweezers for removing cactus needles, water purification tablets or a filtering system.
Do not drink from a stream. Natural water sources such as this are filled with harmful bacteria.
After the hike, soak your feet in cold water for 10 to 15 minutes - helps prevent soreness and feels wonderful - works like putting ice on a sprain.