Hiker Tom's General Pointers

You will arrive at the designated meeting point on time, right? You wouldn't make a very good impression if you didn't, would you?

You need to have your hiking essentials with you (including breakfast in your stomach and gas in your car). The hike leader may make a "before-we-hit-the-road" pit stop for all those with weak bladders and those who just crave that Gas Station Coffee!

You aren't a camel. Bring enough water (and food) for the day. We recommend that you carry two quarts of water. If the weather is hot, you will need even more water. If you forget food, chances are the others will share their crumbs. But don't count on it.

Be prepared for emergencies - expect the unexpected. Your mother won't be coming with us but one mother will...Mother Nature. She can be a difficult and unforgiving adversary!

One item you should leave behind is cologne or perfume. Ladies, the men make fun of you behind your back when you wear it whilst in the woods and guys, the women just gag because you smell like you bathed in it. To all: the bugs will be attracted to it more than the opposite sex and the wildlife will smell you coming miles away.

As for clothes, style takes the backseat when you head into the unforgiving climbs of the North Georgia mountains where function rules over fashion. Summer tempts many to don shorts until their first brush with a bramble, poison ivy, stinging nettle and those amazingly acrobatic ticks. Winter calls for layering - three or four layers that can be "peeled off" as the hike progresses. Remember that you will perspire nearly as much in the winter as in the summer during a strenuous hike. Some type of thermal polyester wicking garment will help minimize the resultant cooling effect.

We strongly recommend hiking boots on all our hikes. If you show up with only flip flops for footwear, we'll wish you an enjoyable ride home (then, after you leave, talk about how dense you are). The hike leader may turn you away, depending on the difficulty of the hike, if you show up in running shoes. The boots should be well broken in (don’t try to do it on your first 7 mile jaunt!), and should preferably be waterproof. Here are some tips for buying new boots: While considering size, remember that feet expand after hiking. You may wear two layers of socks during winter. Try them before buying, with the socks you intend to wear during the hike. And lastly, you don’t have to spend a fortune - a decent pair of boots can be had for around $50.

No, we don't know exactly when we'll be back. Plan on spending the entire day. If you wish to make special dinner arrangements (etc.) you may want to forgo the hike. We cannot promise to get you back in town for a prior commitment (such as the dinner date you're claiming is your first Internet date).

Don’t worry if you are not as fast or experienced and knowledgeable as some of the other hikers are. Go at your own pace, ask questions and learn. Know your limits and don’t exceed them. We haven't lost a hiker on purpose yet.

Stay on the trail. Most trails are marked with blazes, however many are not well marked and can become very confusing to the novice hiker. When hiking, keep track of fellow hikers (we know: it helps if she/he is cute). Try to know who is ahead of you and behind you. For the more adventurous and skilled we have bushwacking hikes to put those compasses and topos to good use.

Follow the “carry-in, carry-out” rule and don’t leave any trash on the trail. Bring a plastic bag and pick up a few souvenirs that you would rather not see on your next hike.

Don’t bring dogs or children unless the hike has been specifically designated to include them ...but do feel free to set up your own doggie or kiddie hikes with others in the group. We will be more than glad to recommend appropriate trails for the activity in mind.

And last of all... Don’t sit at home just because it may be hot, cold, a chance of rain or whatever. The best stories (and the most memorable ones!) often come from some of the most challenging conditions. Get off your duff (or sofa) and be somebody