High Country Hikers

Come Hike With Us!

Appreciate the outdoors firsthand

Welcome to the High Country Hikers' Web Site.  One of the advantages of being in Western North Carolina is being able to experience the marvelous hiking in the area.  Another is socializing with the fascinating people who live and visit here.  Our club attempts to capitalize on both of these things by scheduling organized group hikes near Hendersonville, NC.  Weather permitting, we hike twice a week on Mondays and Thursdays.  Hikes vary from easy 4 or 5-mile events to strenuous 12 or 13-mile treks.  Some days more than one hike is offered.

All that we ask of participants is that they join us in following a few common sense guidelines designed to ensure that every one has a fun and safe hike.

  1. Know and conform to your physical capabilities. Hiiking on mountain trails is not the same as walking in a subdivision or on a track.  Footing is sometimes difficult and ascents may be steep.
2.  Wear hiking boots that are well broken in; they
     should have heavy tread and good ankle
     support.  Wear socks that absorb moisture.  A
     name tag is desirable so that we can learn your
     name faster.  Carry a day pack or fanny pack
     for accessory items.

3.  Dress in layers so you can add or subtract as
     needed.

4.  Bring rain gear, a trail lunch, adequate liquids
     (at least 1 quart), insect repellent, and
     medication if allergic to insect bites.  You
     should also carry a signal whistle.  A hiking
     stick is another option that you might want to
     consider.

5.  Bring an aluminized/mylar hypothermic
     emergency blanket.

6.  Have information with you regarding who
     should  be contacted, and how, in case of
     emergency.  Also have the Club's medical
     form completed and with you on each hike.
     (These are short forms available from the
     leader at the start of each hike.  Their purpose
     is to alert medical teams to any special
     allergies, medications or conditions that might
     affect your treatment in case of an accident.)

7.  At the start of a hike, read and sign the
     attendance and disclaimer record.

8.  On the trail, stay between the leader and the
     sweep.  Keep the person ahead of you in sight
     at all times.  If they do get out of sight, whistle
     once to signal the group to wait for you.  If you
     have a serious problem blow three times.

9.  Pack out what you pack in.

10. Reimburse the club or individual for any
     medical, or other supplies, which you use.

11. Bring a change of shoes for after the hike so that
     you don't bring mud into the car.