PATC Hike Program Resumption - Guidance for All Club Hikes

PATC Hike Program Resumption

Now that governments are relaxing COVID-19 restrictions, there is a strong desire to restart PATC sponsored hikes. The PATC Hiking Committee is committed to keeping everyone (including the general public, employees, volunteers, hikers and partners) as safe and healthy as possible as we begin to restart PATC’s Hiking Program.  The ultimate responsibility whether to participate or lead a hike rests with the individual and how comfortable they are with the risks involved on a particular location/hike, as well as comfort with the other hike participants. These guidelines apply to all PATC-sponsored hikes.

General Guidance

- No hikes will be posted on Meetup.com or other websites.

- Hike leaders should only lead hikes if they feel comfortable doing so.

- All hikes must comply with the essential health guidance to keep all participants safe. 

- If the group experiences a busy trailhead parking area, plan to go to another location or go home. 

- No more than ten (10) in a group.  Hike leaders can decide to limit hikes to fewer participants.

- Don't carpool with those you wouldn't otherwise be with, i.e. family members only to a carpool.

- Don't share food. 

- Start hikes early to allow for sufficient parking at the trailhead. 

- Regular PATC protocol would be observed - everyone signs a release, hike leader has safety                      talk, etc., with safety talk including COVID related hazards and protocols. 

- Read CDC Guidelines and understand health risks.

- Hikes will always be subject to change in light of changing advice/requirements from Government and Land Partner entities.

Specific Guidance

• Hikers should be reminded of social distancing requirements before every hike, along with other points listed below.
• All hikers must have face masks with them and be prepared to use them if passing others on the trail.
• Hikers drive their own vehicles to and from trailheads.
• Hikers meet at the trailhead, and will be told of the time and location of the meeting in emails sent only to attending hikers.
• All hikes will be in and out or circular until carpooling is allowed. No shuttle hikes.
• Preference in recruiting hike participants should go to (1) PATC members, (2) who are regular hikers with the group at this time, though, again, this is the hike leader's discretion.  
• Have a Plan B in mind, in case a hike leader finds a trailhead surprisingly crowded.
• Don't plan a social stop after the hike. 

PATC Hike Committee

General PATC COVID Guidelines: Link.