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www.u4wda.orgGuidelines for Leading and Spotting
By Newly Wade Tolf
B
eing a trail guide or trail leader is not for
everyone. What characteristics and skills are
essential to doing it well and safely?
• Confidence is a must. As someone in a
leadership position, you have to be comfortable
taking responsibility for those in a group, sharing
your awareness of the environment, and insisting
that safety be a high priority.
• Cultivate a good sense of humor. Having enough
perspective to pull back and see the funny side of
what happens might be just what you need to be
able to deal more effectively with any problems that
occur.
• The ability to be organized, to delegate, and to follow
through all matter, as well as the ability to focus well
when faced with multiple distractions.
• Outdoor skills are essential, such as reading a map
and planning a route. You might want to think about
getting a GPS and having the best guidebooks you
can find. You should also make an emergency supply
list of indispensable items.
• Driving skills also matter. For example, you should
be able to pick a line when driving that will allow you
to keep traction on all four wheels. Even moving just
a few inches can help you minimize hazards.
• Conflicts will sometimes arise. A trail leader will stay
calm and be assertive when necessary.
• The possibility of injury is very real. As a result, a
trail leader should have community first-aid/CPR
certification, and should know how to use safe
recovery techniques.
• If a vehicle breaks, it is important to have the
mechanical skills necessary to get the vehicle off the
trail and to clean up toxic spills.
Knowing what you are doing is essential; so is
preparation. You will need to have respect for the
challenges you are sure to face, and you should also be
conscious of just how fragile back country can be.