If you have an interest in taking urban kids on a day hike or want the challenges and rewards of leading a group on their first overnight camping trip, read on. Generally, our new volunteers go on several trips before they consider taking on a leadership role. We have two levels of leaders: Day Hike, which includes car camping, and Backpack.
Outings Leader Training (OLT 101 and 201) may not be offered by Sierra Club National in 2018. (This 2-day training covers outdoor skills and concepts (including low-impact camping), trip planning, interpersonal problem-solving skills, environmental education, and ICO policies and procedures.) An alternate Fast Track training is offered by SF Bay ICO for prospective leaders with extensive outdoor and youth leadership experience. The Fast Track training is held once a year, usually in January. Child Abuse Recognition and Prevention training, which can be done on-line in less than an hour, is also required.
Standard First Aid (one day course) is required for Day Hike/Car Camp Leaders
Wilderness First Aid (two day course) is required for Backpack Leaders.
Training expenses for active leader candidates are reimbursed by ICO. After the OLT (or Fast Track) training, the volunteer becomes a provisional leader and must take an active leadership role on several trips with a mentor before becoming certified and able to lead a trip on their own.
