Hiking Guidelines
Using the following principles will result in your crew hiking as a well-trained team:
The slowest hiker always sets the pace. The slowest hiker is not always the same person.
Advisors never lead the crew and usually hike toward the rear.
The Crew Chief and the navigator usually hike close to the front.
Always hike single file.
There should be about a ten-foot spacing between hikers.
Always obey the "Rule of Four" if the crew must split up.
There are three types of breaks - two minutes to catch your breath, five minutes to replenish your energy, and at least twenty minutes if the crew can't get going in five.
The Crew Chief should designate a "Break Master" to time the breaks with a watch.
When going up difficult hills, use the "caterpillar" method of hiking.
Anyone in the crew can call for a two, five, or "caterpillar" break whenever they need it.
Do not hike on roads when a footpath or hiking trail is available.
Check out Hiking to see a video of a smart-looking crew using these principles as they approach Base Camp from Tooth Ridge, and Caterpillar for a detailed explanation and demonstration of that method.