That %*&#@& Waitlist!
It's very frustrating to sign up for a hike and find yourself on a waitlist! Why does that happen??
Each of our volunteer hike leaders decides the details of their hike - the place, the meeting time, the length of the hike and pace. They also decide how many hikers they want on each hike.
Leaders limit the number of hikers for various reasons. Some locations have limited parking, some leaders prefer a smaller group. Some are new leaders and want to get comfortable before they host more hikers. It is 100% up to each leader how many they allow on their hike, and whether they allow guests, children or dogs.
If the limit for a specific hike is 10, anyone signing up for that hike after number 10 will automatically go on the waitlist. When someone cancels their reservation, the first person on the waitlist will automatically be moved to the attendee list and will be notified via email. This is a feature of Meet Up software.
If you can't go on a hike, please cancel your reservation as soon as possible. 'No shows' are a problem as that keeps other members from attending so we ask that people who change their minds cancel, preferably 2 days in advance. We track 'no shows' and repeat offenders may find themselves barred from future hikes. People on the waitlist should cancel if they decide they don't want to go on that hike. People sometimes move up the waitlist quickly, as the date of a hike nears. If you are on the 'attending' list for a hike that includes a waitlist, be aware you won't be able to add anyone to the list, even a family member who's part of your membership.
Thanks to our volunteer leaders who create such a variety of interesting hikes and thanks to our members who make the hikes fun!
Becky Strickland, Hiking Chair
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An Ode to the Franklin Parker Red Trail by Hike Leader David Hecker
(To the tune of “Wouldn't It Be Loverly,” from “My Fair Lady”)
All I want is a trail somewhere
In the woods in the cool fresh air
With two enormous chairs
Oh, isn’t so lovely
Lots of trail mix for me to eat
Boots with Gore-Tex upon my feet
New friends I’m gonna meet
Oh, isn’t it so lovely
Climb up onto the deck to look way out across the bog
Crossing streams on bridges; Hope I don’t trip over a log
Got two braces upon my knees
As I wander among the trees
Warm clothes so I don’t freeze
Oh, isn’t it so lovely
