San Antonio Plus Size Women's Hiking Group

Our Mission Statement:  San Antonio Plus Size Women's Hiking Group aims to help women thrive while connecting with each other through fun and beneficial activities. By promoting the physical and mental benefits of hiking, in an inclusive and positive environment, we encourage women to step outside of their comfort zones and embrace their most authentic self.

Hiking isn’t about losing weight, it’s about feeling good about yourself and having FUN. The size of your body does not determine the size of your journey. San Antonio Plus Size Women's Hiking Group has been in existence since March 2, 2019 and has been offering hikes on a regular basis since that time. We currently have a fun, supportive and diverse group of active members involved in the hikes. This group is for women of any age, shape, size, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation and gender identity who enjoy hiking but might feel a bit intimidated or uncomfortable in a more traditional hiking group. This group is focused on being active outdoors, trying new things and creating a community of empowered women. Probably the most common advantage of an all-women’s group is the camaraderie, atmosphere of support, and personal sharing that happens. There is also a lot more laughter! And when it includes building specific skills, women are much more likely to try new things in a single-sex group. Our hikes vary in length and level of difficulty. We will hike at a comfortable pace for everyone and NO WOMAN WILL BE LEFT BEHIND. Our approach is simple – we start as a group, stay as a group, and finish as a group.

The Legal Stuff: Your hike leaders, organizers, and hosts are just fellow member volunteers. By participating in our hikes, you assume all risks of liability and injury inherent in hiking activities. You are responsible for your own safety and for determining if you are in a condition fit to participate. By becoming a member or participating in events, you agree the description of these risks is not complete, and that these risks and unknown or unanticipated risks, may result in injury, illness or death.

GROUP GUIDELINES:

• Women Only. Men are not allowed. This is a hiking group for people who identify as women (ages 15+).
• NO WOMAN LEFT BEHIND is not just our group motto, it should be your mindset when you join us on a hike.
• Leave No Trace. When we're out in nature, please practice "Leave No Trace" principles so that we make a minimal impact on the places we explore.
• Be Kind and Courteous. Let's treat everyone with respect. Healthy debates are natural but kindness is required. Honor and value other each other even if you do not agree with their views or actions. Even when you disagree with someone, you can still talk to them and treat them with respect.
• No hate speech, bullying or body shaming. Our group is full of different body shapes, sizes, and colors. Make sure everyone feels safe. Bullying of any kind is not allowed and degrading comments about things like race, religion, culture, sexual orientation or gender identity will not be tolerated.
• Respect everyone's privacy. Being part of this group requires mutual trust. Authentic, expressive discussions make this group great, but may also be sensitive and private. What's shared in the group should stay in the group.
• Please stay with the group. If you insist on leaving the group for whatever reason, please let the group leader know. You will then be on your own. You will no longer be considered as part of the hike group and you assume all risk for a safe return to the parking lot.
• Please know your physical limits. If you are in distress please communicate your concerns to the group and/or group leader. If it is apparent that you cannot keep up, you will be sent back with someone. We are not professional guides and while we do try to keep everyone safe, your safety is your responsibility.
• Please bring water to all hikes. If you are doing a longer hike, it would be wise to bring a snack along too.
• Please arrive on time. It is important that we respect each other's time.

GROUNDS FOR REMOVAL:
- Intentionally violating any of the group guidelines.
- More than 3 "no shows" to events and/or constantly holding a spot and canceling at the last minute.
- Non-payment of Membership Dues (removal happens automatically once your FREE trial period is over)

Life is better in groups and I hope our group will encourage you and empower you to be the woman you were created to be in all areas of your life. Happy trails!