Hike with Friends

Update, Jan. 2021: Friends of the Columbia Gorge Guided Outings Currently Suspended

Friends is committed to operating our guided hikes in a way that puts safety first. That means making sure we have the safety protocols developed to keep hiker leaders, shepherds, hike attendees, and others on the trails all as safe as possible. In light of the ongoing safety challenges posed by the coronavirus crisis, we've decided that suspending our guided outings is the responsible thing to do until vaccines are in wider public circulation and Gorge communities and land managers are prepared to handle an influx of additional people on Gorge trails and recreation areas.

In the interim, Friends will be working to provide virtual offerings and webinars that can bring people together as well as provide suggestions for hikes and other outings that families and households can do safely, with social distancing from other members of the public, on their own. Friends is continuing to monitor health and safety developments and will announce any changes via our website, social channels, and regular e-newsletters.

We look forward to seeing you all again on the trails when safe. And if you have questions or concerns regarding these cancellations please contact Friends Communication Director Burt Edwards at burt@gorgefriends.org. To keep up to date on Friends news and developments, please follow us (see Friends' social channels below) or subscribe to one or more of our eNews.

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Friends’ volunteer hike leaders and shepherds make our guided hike program possible. They enjoy sharing their knowledge, passion, and stewardship ethic for the Gorge on every hike they lead. Because of friends like these, our hike program is set apart from the rest as every outing has an educational focus or theme.

VOLUNTEER CREED:

• I will encourage and demonstrate conservation, outdoor safety, and responsible recreation;
• I will support Friends' mission, regardless of my personal opinions;
• I will share my expertise with those who seek it;
• I understand it's okay to say "I don't know" and can redirect questions to Friends staff.

Questions? Contact Outdoor Programs and Communications Specialist Melissa Gonzalez:

971-634-1265 |	melissa@gorgefriends.org