U4WDA_Spring_2016

Guidelines for Leading and Spotting

By Newly Wade Tolf

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.