Club Policies

1. Acknowledgment of Risk

All hikers acknowledge and accept the inherent risks associated with hiking. The trails selected may involve steep terrain, uneven surfaces, and exposure to natural hazards. Participants assume full responsibility for their safety, and the club bears no liability for any injury, accident, or death occurring during hikes or associated carpooling.

2. Membership and Participation Fee

All participants must be registered members of the hiking club and must confirm their intent to join a hike by submitting the required hiking fee at least 24 hours before the scheduled hike. The standard fee is typically around $10, but may vary depending on parking, pass, or special access fees related to specific trails or parks.

Fees are used to cover group expenses such as shared permits, equipment, or food. Refunds will not be issued within 24 hours of the hike, as pre-hike planning and shared purchases are already made by that time.

2A. Participation of Minors

All minors below the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or by a legal guardian with the parent’s written permission. The accompanying adult is fully responsible for the minor’s safety and conduct during the hike and any related activities.

3. Carpooling and Gas Allowance

Carpooling is coordinated to reduce costs and environmental impact. A gas allowance is provided to the designated driver(s) who transport hikers from the meetup location to the trailhead and back. When multiple vehicles are available, priority is assigned as follows:

1. Vehicles that already possess the required park pass (e.g., Parks Canada or Kananaskis).

2. Vehicles that can accommodate the most passengers.

3. Extra carpooling vehicles are designated only if the current ones cannot accommodate all participants.

4. Meetup Time and Departure

All hikers must arrive at the designated meetup point by the scheduled time. Carpooling vehicles may wait up to 10 minutes before departing for the trailhead.

Exceptions may be made if a hiker communicates in advance that they are running late and the delay is reasonable. Hikers meeting directly at the trailhead should arrive by the agreed-upon time; the group will wait for a maximum of 10 minutes, unless further delay has been communicated. Waiting beyond this period is at the group’s discretion and not an obligation.

5. Hike Scheduling and Trail Selection

Hike dates are determined through a poll of member availability. The final date is chosen based on majority preference. In case of a close vote, priority is given to members who regularly participate in hikes and contribute to the group through experience and involvement. The trail selection is made at the discretion of the admin and core hikers, often based on difficulty, safety, weather, and member readiness. While member input is welcome, the administrators reserve the right to make the final decision on trail and date selection.

6. Group Values and Conduct

Our club welcomes hikers of all skill levels who share a love for the outdoors and a commitment to group safety and respect. Members are encouraged to:

• Participate regularly and support fellow hikers.

• Share their knowledge, experience, and enthusiasm to enhance the group experience.

• Communicate clearly and courteously during planning, carpooling, and on the trail.

• Disruptive, disrespectful, or unsafe behavior may result in removal from the group at the admins’ discretion.

7. Financial Transparency

Our club is a non-profit community group. All fees go directly toward supporting our activities — including hikes, shared expenses, and social gatherings that bring our members together. A summary of expenses and collections is shared with members after each hike, as well as during our end-of-season meet-ups. Transparency and trust are key values of our community.

8. Food and Beverages:

We do our best to provide food and beverages during hikes and social gatherings. However, we cannot guarantee their freshness, quality, or suitability for all individuals. Please consume any provided items at your own risk. The club will not be held responsible for any illness, allergic reaction, or discomfort arising from consumption.

9. Legal Disclaimer

By joining or participating in any hike organized by the club, each member agrees to the following:

• I understand and accept that participation is voluntary and at my own risk.

• I release and hold harmless the Hiking Club, its organizers, and volunteers from any and all liability for personal injury, property damage, or death that may occur before, during, or after the activity.

• I am physically capable of completing the selected hike and will bring appropriate gear, clothing, and supplies.

• Participation constitutes acceptance of these terms and acknowledgment of the associated risks.  

10. Policy Updates:

These policies are subject to change at the discretion of the club organizers. Members will be notified of any updates or revisions to ensure transparency and continued safety.

Version 1  - Posted on October 27, 2025