some things to think about:

Reasons you'd like to start up a Trailside Chapter in your area..they could be anything from convenience to location to the desire to be in leadership. There are several to think about and consider, if you'd like to become a Chapter Coordinator.  Perhaps electing a coordinator is something you are thinking about.  Being a participant requires no significant leadership skills, but this can slightly change if you'd like to lead hikes from time to time once asking the team leader in your local jurisdiction.  Here are some guidelines to consider before training to be a Chapter Coordinator:

>A considerable amount of energy and time will be spent coordinating and leading hikes/events in your district;

>You must employ a great deal of safety knowledge when venturing out into the wilds;

>You want to lead a group of people with varied abilities and interests, as many of your activities will come from the suggestions/ideas of others;

>You must be open to all people, accepting all and not turn anyone away;

>Be able to perform minimal, but highly effective tasks, such as email correspondence (BCC is highly recommended!), reminder/cancellation notices, share hike reports and photos, build a website after 2 years of operation and communicate effectively;

>Being aware of weather threats, trail/road conditions as well as personal health, and not placing anyone at risk, including yourself;

>Acknowledging that the well-being of your group is in your best interests, and never be afraid to ask questions, ask for help, or request a rest break during a hike;

>Conducting 12 or more hikes/events per calendar year for continued Chapter recognition;

>The responsibility for reminding your group of what they are to bring with them on all hikes and sending out this reminder ahead of time;

>Being prepared for sudden changes in weather, lack of hiker preparedness, animal confrontations, and any disruptions in nature and other environments;

>Always be careful in nature, be kind to the environment, and continually practice Leave No Trace ethics.  Look up Trail Etiquette on this website;

>Be able to accept ideas from participants and consider their side of the story, even if it's not in the schedule. Be a good listener, and then respond intuitively;

>You are fully responsible for your group's safety on each outing, having participants sign liability waivers only when risks are apparent and on a higher scale - use your wisdom wisely!

The application process only takes 1-2 weeks, then you're well on your way!  You must be out of the Seattle-Lakewood-Olympia zone to apply. The current Washington Chapter encompasses the entire Puget Sound region, bordered by;

>Hood Canal to the West; 

>Lewis Co. line to the South;

>Bellingham to the North;  

>Snoqualmie Pass to the East.

Once you are ready to become a Chapter Coordinator in your region (outside of the current one), you are welcome to design your own district website, administer assistants who can cover you when necessary, among other things. There is no fine print to this process, but there are the basics to adhere to, for the safety of you and your chapter participants.

To further this exciting process, fill out the form below and submit it. A reply and/or approval will be given within the 2 week processing period.

NOTE: Your submission is completely confidential and travels directly to the Trailside communications box.  

Chapter Coordinator Application Form:↓