BE PREPARED FOR YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE

---

Updated: September 21, 2021

Stride and Stretch continues to monitor the guidance provided by Canada's and Ontario's public health officers with respect to COVID-19.

Self-Screening: Each hiker registering for a hike must perform a self-screening check before hiking (at least 24 hours in advance).
Covid Ontario's self-assessment tool 

Stay home if you have symptoms: 

If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.

• new or worsening cough
• shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• feeling feverish
• chills
• fatigue or weakness
• muscle or body aches
• new loss of smell or taste
• headache
• gastrointestinal symptoms (abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting)
• feeling very unwell
  

Follow the pandemic protocols along the trail:

• Masks are not necessary outdoors, please respect individual preference to keep their physical distance (approximately 2 metres) from other hikers. 
• Move aside to allow others to pass. (step to the right)
• Pack out everything you bring on your hike. Garbage cans will not always be available.

Personal Protective Equipment:

• Hikers are encouraged to wear face masks when physical distancing is not possible during the hike. 

After the hike
Hikers who experience COVID-19 symptoms following a organized hike must inform their local public health unit. Public Health will be responsible for contact tracing. I will have a contact tracing form available for each hike that I can share with Public Health.
Find your local health unit here.

1. Arrive 10 minutes before the start of the hike.
2. If this is your first hike since September 21, please bring proof of vaccination. 
3. Wear sturdy footwear and appropriate attire for the weather and the terrain.
   Hiking poles are a good idea in any season, especially if the terrain is rocky or slippery. In winter, snowshoes or icers/crampons are needed when conditions dictate. Wearing appropriate clothing and footwear prevents injuries and shows consideration for a safe and positive group hiking experience.
4. Always carry I.D. and your health card.
5. Bring sufficient water and snacks (or lunch if indicated). A minimum of 1L of water is recommended on all hikes, and 3L is recommended for long, challenging hikes in the heat of the summer.
6. Bring sunscreen and insect repellent (for spring and summer hikes).
7. Bring your own first aid kit.
8. Leashed dogs are welcome to join us. 

All hikers are responsible for their own transportation to and from the hike.

Most of our hikes will be loops or in and backs, however carpooling may be necessary for linear hikes. 

Safety is our top priority, we respect and understand that some members may not be comfortable carpooling. 

Linear hikes needed shuttles will be noted in the hike descriptions. (e.g. Grand Valley E2E's)

If you are comfortable sharing your vehicle, facemasks should be worn to protect each member. 

Hikes vary in difficulty. In each hike description, you'll find important pieces of information - about distance, pace, and terrain - to help you determine if that particular hike is right for you.  To participate in an organized hike, you need to be able to complete the specified length of the hike on your own or with your own support person within the time allowed.

Hike Difficulty Ratings have been standardized across most of the hiking clubs:

Pace:

• Leisurely – 3km/hr or less
• Medium – 3 to 4 km/hr
• Brisk – 4 to 5 km/hr

Terrain:

• Easy – Mostly flat and usually good footing.
• Moderate – Some hills and/or some poor footing.
• Challenging – Hilly with steep climbs and some poor footing.

Level:

• Beginner - These hikes are suitable for hikers with little experience who want to have a hiking experience. They are generally short, leisurely or moderate paced hikes over easy terrain.
• Easy - These hikes are suitable for fit beginner hikers, or hikers who want an outing, not a workout.
• Intermediate - Intermediate hikes are for experienced hikers, or very fit beginners.
• Advanced - Only hikers who are very fit and experienced should select these hikes. If you are unsure of your ability, we encourage you to start with an Easy or Intermediate hike.

Thanks to the Bruce Trail Conservancy for their leadership.