What we’re about
SWAG had its beginning in April 2012 when our original leader, Wendy realized it was time for her and many of us to get in shape. What about walking and hiking?
We started with about 10 people and over the years have had a pleasant journey getting to know many seniors with a similar goal. We are a fun group of people who enjoy getting out walking, hiking or any other adventure anyone can think of. It is a great way to exercise, learn more about the local parks and make friendships along the way. Group motto - No one should have to hike alone.
Please make sure to have a clear picture of yourself as your profile picture before requesting to join. Before you REQUEST TO JOIN be aware that most of our hikes are near Santa Rosa or in Sonoma County.
As you know there are a number of hiking groups in this area. Once you are a member of our group OUR HIKES ARE ALWAYS FREE (not including entrance fees to events). There are a variety of hikes posted, read the hike description or ask questions about the elevation, trail surface and distance. Most hikes are about 3-4 miles but sometimes include hills up to 500 ft (Foothill, Shiloh).
By signing up for this hike, you agree to the following:
There are risks associated with group hikes and you assume full responsibility for personal injury. You agree to release from liability the leaders of this group against all claims, causes of action, damages, judgments, costs or expenses, including attorney fees which may arise.
As with most groups there are rules:
Membership is $5.00 per year and may be paid directly to Nyla. Message Nyla if you'd like to mail the dues. Dues cover the cost of SWAG’s annual subscription to Meetup.
About Attending Events:
1. All events start at the time indicated. We wait 5 minutes, but out of fairness to others we start promptly as we all planned our schedule to be on time. However, if someone knows you have been held up we'll wait a few minutes more.
2. Please make sure that you click “Yes” to RSVP so the leader knows who and how many will be attending.
3. If you find that you will not be able to attend after your RSVP, please change your RSVP to “No” – even if that is at the last minute. On the activity page at the bottom right corner you will see "You're Going - Edit RSVP" This is where you change the info.
4. When you get an invitation that you do not want to attend -- simply delete the email invitation.
5. Please read the descriptions of the hikes. If there are hills you cannot do, it is best to delete the invite.
6. Everyone accepts responsibility for their own safety, actions and capabilities. Wear proper clothing; bring your own water and snacks.
7. Please check the website JUST PRIOR TO THE EVENT in case there are any changes. This is especially important during bad weather or fire season.
8. Note that leaders, organizers and other hikers are unpaid volunteers not experts and they are not liable for any injury that you may sustain while attending or hiking with the group.
As you may know, the regional and state parks required a parking or an entrance fee. Those fees are paid at the park unless you have a park pass.
Now...let's get that SWAG going...