Double Birthday 🎂🎉 Hike - OT4

Please answer all the questions when joining the waitlist.

Come celebrate a double birthday (Riddhika and Gabriel) and a return to the trails! This is a slow-and-steady team hike followed by a festive potluck picnic.

🧺 Picnic and potluck , fire🔥: You don't have to make anything fancy for potluck, any snacks are fine unless you want to be creative. We’ll be hanging out after the hike.
If you can bring some firewood, please post in the comments!

⚠️ Important: Read Before Signing Up ⚠️
This is my very first hike back after surgery, so I will be moving at a "slow poke" pace (~1.5 – 2 km/h).
Time Commitment: Do not make any plans for later in the day. We will need the entire day for the hike and the picnic. Only sign up if you can commit to the whole day.

Team First: We move as a team, navigate as a team, and finish as a team.
No Trail Runners: If you prefer to push a fast pace or split from the group, this event is not for you. We are here to embrace the challenge of the terrain and the company of the group at a relaxed, steady rhythm.

🏔️ The Challenge & Trail Stats
Please be aware that this can be challenging, technical, off-trail hike. We will be deviating from marked paths into uncleared terrain. Expect some bushwhacking (navigating through thick brush and potentially deep snow).
Trail: Jumpingpound ridge
Difficulty: Challenging / Technical Off-Trail
Distance: ~15 km
Elevation Gain: ~700 m
Pace: Slow pace , Strictly Group-Focused
Total Time: 7 hours hiking + 3 hours
round-trip driving + 2 hours picnic.( Approximate)
🕒 Logistics & Meeting Point
Meetup Time: 8:30 AM
Location: Somerset LRT Station, East Parking Lot (Opposite Tim Hortons).
No Trailhead Meets: Do not ask to meet at the trailhead. There is no cell service there, making coordination impossible.
Carpooling: Suggested contribution is $20 per person. Note: This route requires driving on a gravel road for a fair distance.
👥 Attendance Policy
Priority will be given to group regulars and those with a consistent record of reliable attendance.
Past no-shows on my hikes will not be allowed to join. If you are new, you will get a lower priority as this is a big hike so history matters.
⚙️ Mandatory Gear & Safety
Winter conditions are still in full effect. Because we are bushwhacking, specific gear is required for your safety and comfort.
🐻 Bear Spray: Absolutely mandatory. No spray, no hike.
🦯 Hiking Poles: Highly recommended for stability on uneven, off-trail slopes.
🥾 Traction: Microspikes are optional, but recommended.
🚫 Clothing: Technical layers or wool only. Absolutely no cotton or jeans.
🎒 Supplies: Personal first aid kit, plenty of water, a hearty lunch, snacks, and your potluck contribution.
⚠️ Disclaimer
Your Hosts are volunteers, not trained guides. All participants are responsible for assessing their own physical fitness, the weather, road conditions, and avalanche risks. By joining, you acknowledge that you are fully prepared with the proper gear and are entirely responsible for your own safety and well-being throughout the duration of the trip.