Outdoor Club of South Jersey - Hiking/Camping/Backpacking

Any questions ahead of time, email theteppers@comcast.net. Problems the day of, you can text 609-742-8803.

Constant rain, heat index above 85 degrees, wind chill below 30 degrees or other nasty weather of the same ilk may cancel. If above 60 degrees and only isolated showers or mist, hike will be on but may be modified.

The nitty gritty:

• As anyone who has hiked with me in the past knows, I have Multiple Sclerosis. MS is a chronic disease of the central nervous system. It is an autoimmune disorder, a condition in which the body attacks itself by mistake. MS is an unpredictable disease that affects people differently depending on which nerves are being attacked. I am blessed to still be able to walk and get out in nature. The location, types of hikes, distance, and pace that I choose are generally based on my current symptoms. Occasionally, I will need to adjust a route or take more frequent breaks. If appropriate, I may use hiking sticks or a rollator. (The rollator provides balance and a convenient seat if I need to give my leg a break.)
• On November 16, 2025 I had a relapse which was brought on mainly by stress and doing too much. I had to take it easy for a few weeks but now I’m back. I will be taking it easy.
• One of the more prominent side effects/symptoms of my MS is heat intolerance. And for me, depending on humidity levels, it can start around 80 degrees. I will be slow and taking frequent breaks.
• I have developed ataxia on my left leg associated with my MS. This is causing some knee/ankle pain since my gait is being altered and they are trying to compensate.
• My pace will vary on how I’m feeling and the makeup of the group that day. I like to look at nature, take time for photos, spot interesting things and don’t mind stopping for comfort breaks. If you want to go fast, you picked the wrong leader/hike. If I title my hike as slow and I’m going faster than ‘advertised’. Please let me know and I’ll slow down.
• If a hike is titled as a family hike expect at least one of my elementary school aged children to be accompanying me.
• Dogs: I’m neutral. The OCSJ has recently enacted rules concerning dogs. Your well behaved, leashed dog is welcome to hike with me at the back of the group. It is YOUR responsibility to determine/confirm that dogs are permitted on a specific trail. If you plan to bring your dog, please note it in the comments such that people who prefer not to hike with dogs are aware. In addition, the OCSJ has recently enacted rules concerning dogs:
• • It is up to each leader whether dogs are allowed on an event. Members should assume dogs are not allowed unless they have express permission from the leader, each time.
• - Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet
• - Dogs must be under owner's control at all times.
• - Dogs must stay at the back of the group
• - Owners must clean up after their dog
• - Dogs must not be allowed near wildlife
• - Dogs must not be allowed to jump on anyone
• - To protect our leaders from pressure, these rules are not negotiable. If the leader allows dogs, these rules must be enforced.