This group enjoys keeping fit while having fun walking and hiking in the great outdoors. We explore trails, parks, and beaches on weekends throughout the year. All events are intended to be easy to moderate in difficulty so that even those who are new to hiking can feel happy participating. However, reasonable physical fitness is necessary due to the nature of the activity, and this group is recommended for those who can walk comfortably for at least 2 hours. We don't go at a fast pace but also don't tend to take a lot of breaks. We are also flexible in changing the course midway in the not so rare event that we take an unplanned trail! We are completely non-competitive. Our main purpose is to get exercise in the fresh air while having fun. In addition to walking, we sometimes enjoy other kinds of sports, social, and travel events. We always welcome new friends of all ages and life situations, and all your well behaved children and dogs (when the parks allow). Come on out and walk with us!
Information for new members: In order to join, new members should have a clear face picture in their profiles. For every event, we request members who sign up early to reconfirm their rsvp's before the event. Then on the day, we typically wait 10 minutes past the meeting time for 'going' rsvp's who have reconfirmed. For example, if the meeting time is 11:00, we may wait until 11:10 for those we believe are coming. At the time of posting an event, a group size appropriate for it is determined, and once all spots are filled members may join the waiting list for a chance of getting a spot. The email requesting both 'yes' and 'waiting list' members to reconfirm is sent out three days before each event. Members must reconfirm or it is assumed they have changed to 'no'. 'Waiting list' members who reconfirm are then given the spots of 'yes' members who cancel or do not reconfirm. At this time, if there are still more 'waiting list' people than available spots, a second group may be formed if a member volunteers to lead it and contacts the Organizer (or Event Host) by email. Events may occasionally be canceled due to weather conditions. 50% or greater chance of rain or snow on weather.com cancels. Temperatures below freezing during hiking time may also cancel, depending on the event. Every effort is made to notify participants one day in advance. This group is based courtesy, reliability, and communication. Any 'going' rsvp who is a 'no show' without notice more than once may receive a warning, and may be removed from the group on the third 'no show'.
Note: By clicking 'I'm going' for an event, you are accepting the following:
RELEASE
In consideration of my being accepted to participate in the above-described event, I hereby for myself, my heirs, executors, administrators and assigns (1) waive and release any rights and claims for damages for injuries that may arise against Fitness Friends: Hiking and Fun, their members, employees and agents, from my participation in the event, (2) agree not to commence any legal action to recover such damages, (3) agree, if I violate the previous clause, to hold harmless and indemnify defendants for any attorneys' fees and other costs and expenses incurred by them in defending such legal action, and (4) grant Fitness Friends: Hiking and Fun permission to use myname, photograph or likeness.
