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Hiking Survey Results
Purpose of Club: To promote safe, healthy, and enjoyable hiking and walking
experiences among members through education and sponsorship of both day and multi-day hikes and
walks. To foster a friendly and enjoyable social atmosphere while partaking in club
activities.
Frequency of Meetings and Activities: Club meetings are scheduled at the beginning
of each year and are held at 1:00 on the first Tuesday of January, March, May, September and
November unless notified otherwise by the executive board. Check the Calendar to verify the meeting
schedule. Hikes and social events schedules vary at different times of the year but two hikes per
week are common during peak hiking times. A New Year’s Day event, summer/fall social event and
Holiday Party are held each year.
Membership and dues: Membership is open to all Sun City residents in good
standing. Annual dues are $12 per person. There is an early join rate of $10 per person until
December 31, 2008.
Club Leadership: The Executive Board consists of 6 elected members. There is a
committee of Hike Leaders who are advisors to the Board of Directors on issues related to hike
events and hike activities. There is also a social committee.
Types of Hikes:
Day Hikes: There are hikes in Sun City, at Lake Georgetown, and the near by Austin
area. However, many day hikes are full day events involving travel to city, state and national
parks within about 100 miles of Sun City and hikes 4-10 miles in length. They are scheduled on
various weekdays. Travel is by car pool and these hikes are typically followed by a group
lunch.
Multi-Day Hikes: Usually at least twice per year a trip is scheduled to a more
distant location in Texas or a neighboring state for a two to four night camping or motel stay with
hikes each day.
Basic Hiker Expectations and Responsibilities: It is the personal responsibility
of each hiker to know his own physical capabilities and limitations and participate accordingly.
Personal training is crucial and the suggested preparation is to walk outside at least at 3 times
per week for a distance of 3 miles at a pace fast enough to get heart and respiration rate
elevated. Everyone is expected to prepare and hike in a manner that assures personal safety and the
safety of the group.
The Club assists members in being safe hikers. Hike leaders have basic safety and
first aid supplies at each hike. Safety and first aid classes are periodically offered along with
sessions on hiking education and issues encountered on the trails. To assist members in making
decisions on which hikes to participate, each hike is clearly rated for difficulty using criteria
such as distance, terrain, speed and temperature. Hikes are also classified as Walkers, Exercisers
and Challengers, with a definition for each category. Clothing to be worn and supplies to bring are
set out by each hike leader. Personal discussions with club officers and hike leaders are
available.
Bottom Line: We promote safe, often physically challenging and memorable hikes
with new friends!
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