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Trailhead Talk
All Sierra Club Outings should begin with a trailhead talk. While some elements of this list
might require more detail on an overnight outing and less on a short day hike, it is
important that you cover each element. You can cover some of this information during a
pre-outing meeting as well.
1. Welcome and Introductions
- Gather the group together.
- Introduce yourself and other outings staff.
- Ask participant to introduce themselves and/or play an ice-breaker name game.
2. Roles and Expectations
- Explain the leader's role and responsibility to the group.
- Set or reaffirm the leader's expectations for the outing
- Ask participants for their expectations and concerns.
3. Complete Paperwork and Sign Waivers
Note: In most cases, the waiver should be signed at the initial meeting point, not the
trailhead.
- Present the liability waiver and ensure all participants understand it.
- Have all participants read and sign a liability waiver.
- Ensure you have medical authorization forms for all unaccompanied minors.
4. Introduce the Conservation Message
- Introduce the issue you plan to discuss, materials you plan to hand out, etc.
5. Route Plan and Trail Conduct
- Describe the route and travel plan.
- Designate a "point" and "sweep" and set rules for group travel
- Explain "pack it in/pack it out" and other Leave No Trace highlights that apply to
your outing.
6. Safety Issues
- Explain what to do if separated from the group (see Conducting an Outing: Lost
Participants for Sierra Club procedures).
- Describe the inherent risks involved in this activity.
- Describe the environmental risks the group might encounter (i.e., river crossings,
snow, etc.).
- Briefly describe your safety management plan
- Make sure all participants are comfortable with the risks.
- Explain why hydration is important.
7. First Aid
- Inform participants which leader is in charge of first aid and point out the location
of the first aid kit.
- Ask if anyone has medical issues you should know about.
- Describe proper foot and blister care.
8. Equipment and Food
- Ensure all participants have proper gear, food, and clothing.
9. Are you ready to go?
- Answer any last minute questions.
- Go for it!
On overnight trips, or when necessary, make sure to cover these
additional topics during the first day:
1. Health and Hygiene
- Ensure participants know that water must be purified and demonstrate the proper
techniques.
- Describe proper Leave No Trace etiquette for disposal of human wastes.
- Explain the importance of hand washing, particularly before food preparation.
2. Campsite Selection and Conduct
- Discuss proper Leave No Trace techniques for campsite selection.
- Explain campsite safety issues (use of flashlights, etc.).
- Describe techniques for reducing impact on the campsite.
- Discuss the impacts of campfires and (if applicable) demonstrate Leave No Trace
techniques for building a fire.
Source: Sierra Club Outing Nuts and Bolts
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last updated 4 Sep 2006
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