The Genesee Valley Hiking Group (GVHG) is the online avatar of the Genesee Valley Hiking Club (GVHC), which for over 80 years has offered hiking, walking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, canoeing and camping outings in Western New York. These activities range from easy to strenuous, providing opportunities for people of all ages and fitness levels to enjoy the outdoors during all seasons.

Our members are of various backgrounds, but all are nature lovers who prefer outdoor activities. We care about and enjoy "the wild" in sunshine, rain, or snow.

Warm weather activities include Saturday and Sunday hikes within easy commute from Rochester, NY. every third Sunday in the months of April through November is designated for trail maintenance on the Finger Lakes Trail or Letchworth Branch Trail. Periodic kayak and canoe rides take us down Black Creek, into Irondequoit Bay, or along the shores of Lakes Ontario.

Winter activities include weekly hikes, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing as weather permits. We have annual hikes like the "Ed Willis Pancake Hike" which is about 8 miles long followed by pancakes at the Maple Tree Inn.  There are stops for coffee or ice cream after most hikes.

HIKES

Participation:

. Hikes are free to all participants.
. Members of GVHG, GVHC, guests and members of the public are all welcome to take part.
. Children under sixteen are welcome but must be accompanied by a parent or other responsible adult.
. No pets are allowed on the outings.
. Regardless of how often you plan to hike you are welcome to join our club.
. All participants must abide by the hike rules (see below)

Meeting Place and Time:

Hike leaders select the meeting place to coordinate with their specific hike. The hike times and meeting locations change with each hike - check the schedule. The start time in the schedule is the hike start time - please plan to arrive at least 10 minutes prior to the start time.

Hike Rules:

. All participants must abide by the hike rules.
. The hike leader is in charge of the hike and will make all decisions concerning the route, rest stops, duration, etc.
. The co-leader or sweep is responsible for bringing up the rear and insuring that hikes do not get too spread out, and that hikers do not get separated from the main group.
. Each participant must sign their own name on the Sign-In/Trip Leader's Report.
. Hikers should pay the car pool fee recommended in the hike description, if the fee is applicable.
. Hikers experiencing any difficulty have the responsibility to inform the hike leader. Difficulties may include, but are not limited to, medical problems, lack of water, overheating or fatigue.
. Do not leave the hike without the permission of the hike leader. For your safety do not leave the hike alone - no fewer than two hikers should go together.
. All people must be accounted for at the end of the hike.
. No pets
. No radios
. No smoking

Hike Recommendations:

. Once a hike has started it will usually continue in spite of the weather - be prepared for changes in the weather and for extreme conditions.
. Wear appropriate shoes and boots and layered clothing.
. Bring water, and food for longer hikes.
. Employ the motto "Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints".
. Enjoy the hike and companionship of the other hikers.
If you have any questions or problems during a hike, consult the hike leader.

PLEASE RESPOND TO THE RSVP FOR EVERY HIKE WHETHER YOUR RESPONSE IS YES or NO - ALL REPLIES GIVE US VALUABLE INFORMATION ON HOW MANY PEOPLE MAY SHOW FOR THE HIKE.