Events

The following rules have been developed to help ensure safety, enjoyment, and fairness to all those wishing to participate in hikes and field trips during Wilderness Wildlife Week. TM

1. All participants must register according to the schedule. After the initial sign-up period, hikes and field trips will remain open until filled.
2. Participants must register in person.
3. Participants may only register themselves and three other hikers, not to exceed a total of 4 people, for hikes/field trips.
4. Hikers may only sign up for one hike and one night event.
5. There will be no pre-registration or phone registration.
6. More strenuous hikes/field trips are not recommended for small children or less experienced hikers.
7. Parents are responsible for determining, in advance, children's ability to complete any hike/field trip, including, but not limited to maintaining the hike/field trip pace. A parent or guardian must accompany children 13 and under at all times during hikes/field trips. Children ages 14-17 may participate in hikes, but must have a parent or guardian’s signature on the release form.
8. All hikes/field trips ORIGINATE ONLY from the Music Road Hotel Convention Center.
9. It is essential that participants be at the designated assembly point for each hike on time. The first 15 minutes will consist of a hike orientation and completion of certain administrative requirements. Absence from this orientation may result in the loss of the participant's place on the hike/field trip to an alternate hiker.
10. Participants not present for initial roll call for bus loading will be replaced by an alternate hiker, after the entire list is announced.
11. The hike/field trip leaders and event staff will have the final decision to remove any individual from a hike/field trip prior to departure due to, but not limited to, lack of essential equipment, or for any other reason.
12. It is the participant's responsibility to be prepared for a variety of weather conditions, wear appropriate shoes, carry the proper equipment and supplies (water, trail snacks, poncho, flashlights, etc.)
13. Please respect all hikers and leave cell phones behind or, at least, "off" while hiking.
14. You will be required to sign the Hike/Field Trip release form acknowledging that you have read and understand all rules pertaining to requirements for hikes/field trips during the Wilderness Wildlife Week. TM
15. Please keep these rules!
16. Note: All programs hikes and field trips are subject to rescheduling or cancellation.

HIKE CHECKLIST
Winter weather in the Smokies is unpredictable, to say the least. If you are joining us for one of our day hikes into the mountains, please BE PREPARED. When you strap on a sturdy pair of hiking boots, BE SURE you also include the following items in your backpack:

• Gloves
• Head Cover (hat, toboggan or hooded coat)
• Rain Gear/Poncho
• Lunch or Trail Snacks (fruit, nuts)
• Pocketknife
• Extra pair of socks
• Flashlight
• Water