What we’re about
I hope you'll come out and enjoy some of the world's most amazing natural environments with a group of community minded, active individuals of all ages and backgrounds in a safe and enjoyable space.
Please read the waiver and other documents in this folder https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1owOHa6FCpR9Mgh3A7CJBPQ3YVKjx839-. If you're new to Meetup, take the time to learn about the site on mobile and browser; global, group, and event-specific actions; notification settings, etc.
This group is focused on sharing the natural environment with group-minded people for year-round activities from walks to scrambles, to enjoy the scenery, take pictures, appreciate the company, and occasionally socialize off-trail. As of end of 2020, I've organized about 320 trips through Meetup and enjoyed/led hundreds more outside of Meetup, plus other organizers have also organized some trips.
Every group, organizer, and trip is independent and different. Read carefully and ask questions. Please provide feedback, first, directly to your organizer, and then to me. Often there may be a misunderstanding underlying a concern.
The group is a benign dictatorship. I have opened up to a few organizers to see how it goes (see Organizer Expectations), and always want to hear about any issues related to trip, group, or individual safety.
We encourage our members to learn about conservation issues and provide your input into issues affecting our natural places. We are loving our natural spaces to death.
Our trips tend to be smaller groups and slower-paced (but of course pace is relative). No-shows are bad!
I'm trying to keep it informal and friendly. At the same time, I'm trying to create a certain kind of group: there are a bunch of rules, guidelines, and a waiver. Read the whole trip description please.
Be prepared, be safe, and care for yourself, each other, and the environment.
I encourage you to have a profile with a photo of yourself, and a unique name so we can find you and remember you better.
Only people who are listed as "Organizer" or "Co-organizer" can speak on behalf of the Group.
If that all sounds good to you, then welcome, and I hope to meet you on a trip soon.
Nitin
A note about the History
This group was started in 2006. Over time it grew to 600 members and organized more than 100 trips through 2010. After a brief hiatus, I resurrected the group.
Upcoming events (2)
See all- South Lawson Peak Sun Jul 6 8:00 a.m.6969 17 Ave SW, Calgary, AB
I believe it is the same as Little Lawson. Short and steep, this one is 8km return and 700 m elevation gain. Some difficult bits including a creek crossing and near-scrambling but exposure is all avoidable. Weather may be rainy so we may have to change the target or go to the first viewpoint, but I want to get out and do something! Join waitlist if it's full - I may add a couple of spots, preference to previous attendees.
** I may send you a meetup message - be sure you can receive (Settings/Email updates and Settings/Privacy), and respond within 24h. Also keep up with the Comments
Event 202514-slow/medium pace
Don't rely on AllTrails(AllFails) app.
Equipment
-outdoor basics for a longer day: water, food, Summer sun, water, and wind-resistant gear
-gaiters if muddy and poles for the steepness and creek crossing
-emergency and safety essentials
-No bear bells, no jeans (very cold when wet)-Consider these items
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Bp_mSt5iSPf_ThRFeRzjRCowjfW_4hyx/
-Kindness, preparation, quietRead the entire description before asking questions
Rating: D4
https://docs.google.com/document/d/191se0NGIaEEhZZZfsAbdksKHnH0bbqiF/*NOT a guided trip - organizers aren't trained guides and don't accept any responsibility/liability. Safety & navigation are everyone's responsibility. You need to research & be prepared with physical ability, clothing, & equipment for expected & unexpected conditions.
*We may turn away unprepared participants for the safety of all-Strong level of fitness (cardio/stamina) needed
-About 5-6h +/- on the trail including lunch, lazing, photos depending on conditions and contingencies
-Don't plan on being back for a specific time
-No alcohol or drugs. Sometimes we stop for one drink after a trip
**Waiver of liability form to print/sign/scan or at the meetup: provide an emergency contact and acknowledge as a driver
-Read in advance. It's found with other important files here https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1owOHa6FCpR9Mgh3A7CJBPQ3YVKjx839-?usp=sharing*We're a group - hike together, friendly, enjoy scenery, take pictures, bask. Allow the slowest members to catch up & have a breather. Enjoy some silent time.
*If you don't stay with the group during the hike you will be banned from this meetup.Attendance/Late
-Cancel as early as possible even if you're on the waiting list; late drop out for a different meetup is a no-show
-Check your notification settings for this group to receive confirms of being added from waitlist
-Last minute update? Call or text (as well as meetup update) the organizer (Nitin at 403 612 7129) as soon as you know. Not email!-Do not rely on cell service
Transport
Meet at 69 St SW LRT station, park and ride lot on east side oas shown by the pin on the map. If taking transit always check their website for service disruptionsUsually most people want to carpool: make a comment here whether you can offer a ride or need one, and meet us at the meetup point (usually in the city). Otherwise let us know that you'll meet us at the trailhead parking lot as described.
Don't leave valuables in the car at the meetup or trailhead. Let someone know where you're goingDirections
Drive west on Hwy 1 to Hwy 40. South on Hwy 40 to Kananaskis Lakes Trail. South to Smith-Dorrien/Spray Lakes Trail. 2.9 km to a pullout on the right. No outhouses. Driving time ~1h 30m one way. Get an idea of where we're going. Don't rely on live GPS - use maps such as GemTrek, and/or download map dataWeather: Windy: Alberta, compare forecastsnamConus,50.324,-114.616,12
(ignore GFS) Usually cooler, windier, & subject to change quickly. Be prepared for any conditions - cold, hot, snow, rain, hail, sun, wind. A 20C change is possible & forecasts are flakyConditions: Dry, muddy.
Specific hazards partial list
-Other people, weather, ticks, hypothermia, wild animals, rockfall, slip and fall, being lost, injury, auto travel, etc
-Hiking is inherently risky as is getting to the trailheadCosts
-Gas $ for drivers - suggest $20
-Park fees - Kananaskis
-Requested meetup contribution $3+ toward $550 meetup feePets/Kids
-Fit and active adult-accompanied hiker kids 12+
-Well-behaved quiet dogs, on leash at all times + your transportationEtiquette
-Don't post (anywhere) your GPS track for uncommon or off-trail trips
-No music with speakers
-Texting, cell calls, and other electronics (other than GPS) aren't welcome beyond the trailhead. Phones silent - not vibrate; flight mode to save battery
-Leave no trace ethic
-Pack out all garbage including organics
-Watch what you step on - things grow slowly
-More Tips, Safety, and Etiquette https://docs.google.com/document/d/15Ep-FCzAdJUv1QZskDWz2MJIysNsLyxn/Photo and Video
-Expect to be in pictures/videos that may be shared
-Ongoing video of more than ~1 min at a time is NOT welcome to preserve privacy and atmosphere
-Do post SOME highlight photos
-I may delete photos, but edit your ownI acknowledge that we are participating in activities on traditional lands of indigenous people who have lived here since long before European settlers arrived.
Why so many rules? Group mindedness - help everyone to have a good day.
