Mountaineers course activities and events start and end at the trailhead. To minimize environmental impact and reduce congestion at popular trailheads, we encourage participants to privately organize carpools whenever possible. Carpooling not only helps the environment but also fosters team camaraderie and makes transportation logistics more manageable.
Carpool Passenger Responsibilities
As a passenger, it’s important to be respectful and considerate of the driver and your fellow carpoolers. Here are some key expectations:
Contribute for gas and fees: Be prepared to contribute to gas at a rate of 12 cents per mile, as well as your share of tolls and any park entry fees.
Keep the vehicle clean: Bring plastic bags for your muddy boots and dirty clothing. Clean up after yourself and ensure no trash is left in the car. A simple thank-you goes a long way in showing appreciation for your driver.
Avoid scented products: Be mindful of others and refrain from using scented products like perfume, aftershave, or strong deodorants. Some people may have sensitivities or allergies to fragrances.
Be on time: Have both yourself and your gear ready by the designated meeting time. Field trips start at different times depending on the location, so it’s crucial to be prompt and prepared to “move out” at the scheduled start.
Driver’s Responsibilities
As a carpool driver, you have additional responsibilities to ensure everyone’s safety and a smooth trip:
Ensure vehicle safety and legality: Your car must be in safe working order, with functional seat belts, a valid driver’s license, and adequate insurance.
Drive safely: You’re responsible for driving in a safe manner at all times, considering the road conditions and the wellbeing of your passengers.
Prepare for adverse conditions: If there’s even a slight chance of snow or ice on the roads, be ready with pre-fitted tire chains, a shovel, and a bag of rock, sand, or clay cat litter for traction.
Additionally, Washington state law requires vehicles to carry tire chains when traveling in the mountains from November 1 to March 31. This is especially important in national parks, where chains may be required for entry during winter months. Always check road and weather conditions by visiting the WSDOT website.
Permits
Before heading out, ensure you have the necessary permits for parking and entering public lands. Different areas require different passes, such as Discover Passes, America the Beautiful Passes, or Northwest Forest Passes. These permits are often required for trailheads and climbing areas used by the Olympia Mountaineers.
Plan ahead: Purchase any required permits ahead of time, as it’s usually cheaper than buying them at the park or risking a fine at the trailhead.
Display properly: Make sure your pass is clearly displayed in your vehicle before leaving it at the trailhead to avoid fines or penalties.