What we’re about
We charge $8 monthly for this group. Hike leaders are exempt as long as they run at least two hikes monthly. This group does moderate hikes usually about 4-6 miles unless we happen to miss a turn. This is mainly a socialization group. Harder Hikes and challenging events can be found on Trail Shrinks EXTREME meetup https://www.meetup.com/trailshrinksextreme-com/
Trails Shrinks are people that like exercise, want to meet people, and believe in fairness. Trail Shrinks always have their hand out to help and never ostracize or ridicule others. In this complicated world where people have strong beliefs and deep fears, Trail Shrinks come to you to help you participate in the absolutely fake world of hiking. No one in this group will ever get a badge that says, Hiker! No, You will be considered a Trail Shrink because you are a really nice person possibly with colorful hiking clothing and enough energy to climb up mountains or to walk through cities. Occasionally there will be other events like parties, concerts, theatre, travel and THE Hikers Ball which will indeed be held yearly. This group is for everyone, all genders, whether single, divorced, married, or just not interested. Our goal as Trail Shrinks is to listen, on each hike and to also share what we may want to discuss. Every hike we cover some sort of current event or news. I like intellectuals even pseudo-intellectuals like me. The purpose is to stimulate important conversations and to elevate the differences between people that have formed holding just one opinion. Yes, Trail Shrinks is about relationships and everyone's relationship with the rest of the world. There will be many people you like that come to the Trail Shrink Hikes and some that you do not like but that is just life and we ask that you refrain from insulting or gathering around them to burn them at the stake. That just smells really bad.
Now I am going to tell you that we will meet at the time announced but we will always wait as a courtesy up to 10 or 15 minutes if we know someone is on their way. If no one is coming and they have not informed us in some way we will start promptly.
All subjects may be discussed and these include. Religion, politics, sex, drugs, and rock and roll. Lighten up if you hear something you do not like. This group is for everyone to remember and it's even okay to disagree with everyone because that is what makes the world go around.
You agree to hold Trail Shrinks harmless by joining this group. You also take full responsibility for your own safety. Please be sure that you practice common sense when traveling or dining after events. Please do not ask how to prepare for an event. That is your responsibility. You can find reviews from other hikers online regarding the difficulty of a hike and there is plenty of advice about how to prepare and what gear to wear. One thing we will say is to bring plenty of water always and aspirin and a first aid kit are definitely helpful. Good luck with our group. Be ready to be nice and we hope you make some true friends and meaningful connections.
I have seen how Trail Shrinks transform some peoples lives. I want to do more of that. I will be reaching out to therapists, marriage counselors, and more. Married couples and newly divorced. I am glad to report that as of November 10, 2023 there have been 68 couples formed here at trail shrinks and I hope I never see them again. :)
Always a rule with Trail Shrinks if you are married please no cheating. Safety in relationships is always a concern and you can bring all concerns to the organizers. I think Trails Shrinks is one of the best things I have done in my life. I hope you will move this effort forward with me. This ain't your mommas' hiking group/.
Thanks,
Mark Nejmeh
732-995-3914
