Be a Hike Leader!
It’s often been said that enjoying a hike is increased by the presence of a leader. Not just someone who knows the way, but someone who applies safety, best practices, fun, local knowledge and the ability to work with his or her group to make a successful outing.
Take the next step in your hiking progress and become a leader. Hike Ontario’s introductory hike leadership certification program takes candidates in 1 day from hiker to leader, ready to facilitate great outings for fellow hikers and also to inspire them to become Certified Hike Leaders themselves.
The Certified Hike Leader certification is a sanctioned standard and will assist the candidates in leading club hikes, and developing skills for work in Provincial Parks, Youth Camps, and other community organizations for example, Scouts Canada and Girl Guides.
Cost
$85.00 per person | Refund Policy
Registration
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Prerequisites
To be eligible to take this course and, thereby become a Certified Hike Leader, candidates must:
- Be at least 16 years of age
- Have completed the Safe Hiker Program OR equivalency which is having demonstrated a level of hiking competence and experience, including having completed a minimum of five (5) day hikes in the past 2 years. The Program Certification Chair will make a determination as to the suitability of the equivalency.
- Submit a letter of reference from a recognized authority, for example, Hike Ontario Instructor, hiking club Executive member or school Principal/VP.
- Standard First Aid recommended.
Objectives
- To introduce participants to the skills, knowledge and attitudes of a trained hike leader, including appropriate risk management for day hikes where the hike is no more than 2 km from road access.
- To provide the prerequisite for the Wilderness Day Hike Leader and Wilderness Trip Hike Leader programs.
Content/Topics Covered
Topics will include risk management, leadership, trail guides, navigation, outdoor techniques, environmental protection, hike planning, practical problem solving on a class group hike.
Course Format
There will be small and large group activities and teacher-directed instruction. While much of the emphasis is instructional, as a certification program, a portion of the agenda is assessment and skills evaluation.
Participant Expectations during Course:
- Demonstrate good physical fitness and the ability to move confidently and efficiently when traveling on trail.
- Present a positive and commanding attitude on safety when leading a group.
- Demonstrate a high standard of leadership, problem solving and route finding.
- Show ability to establish effective communication with regard to the hiker’s safety, comfort, and enjoyment.
- Demonstrate a respect and care for the environment.
- Have a proper standard of equipment as required for day hiking trips.
Pre-Course Assignment: Prepare a hike leader’s backpack for a day hike. Come prepared to share your chosen items.
Course Length/Hours: 8 hours including lunch and breaks. The specific timing is at the discretion of the instructor.
Participant Assessment: Methods of assessment include demonstrating the appropriate behaviours of a hike leader throughout the classroom and on-the-trail activities, full attendance, participation in all class activities and discussions and a written test.
Resources Required by Participant: Lunch, water, paper, pen, a leader’s backpack ready for leading a day hike, weather-appropriate clothing
Materials Provided: Student course manual