Hiking 4 (otherwise known as HG4) is an active, friendly outgoing group for those who enjoy the healthy benefits of a moderately paced walk in the countryside in good company. The group began as an offshoot of Hiking 3 and several members walk with both groups.

WALKS

We offer a walk on the THIRD WEDNESDAY of the month starting in the morning at about 10.00 am. Details are circulated by the convenor or leader about a fortnight ahead. We usually head out into the countryside but occasionally we do city walks. After going for a while we customarily stop for a coffee/snack for 10 minutes or so. In the colder months we walk from a pub or cafe and congregate for an optional meal at the end. During the warmer months of April, through to October, we bring our own picnic meal and eat it in a break during the course of the walk. It is up to the leader of each walk to offer what they prefer and to make the final decision to cancel the walk if weather conditions are atrocious.  Every member should offer to lead  a walk at some time, though anyone with doubts about leading will find help from other group members. They will assist with pre-walking the route and giving support on the day.

Walks are generally 6 to 8 miles long. A reasonable level of fitness is required because some of the walks can be fairly challenging with stiles, ascents and descents of varying levels of difficulty, and terrain can be muddy and slippery. The pace is usually moderate.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED
●  Walking Boots or suitable shoes giving good ankle support and with a good grip.
●  Waterproof jacket and trousers
●  Backpack
●  Summer hat and sunscreen, insect spray
●  Warm hat for winter, scarf and gloves
●  Walking poles (optional) for use on hilly or slippery ground
●  Bottle/flask for cold/hot drinks, snacks, picnic (in summer)

MEMBERSHIP

 Only current u3a members are allowed on walks for insurance reasons, but guests are welcome to join a couple of walks if the leader on the day and the Convenor have been advised beforehand. Even though the u3a has insurance cover for members it is nonetheless important to realise that we all walk at our own risk. Children and dogs are not allowed on our walks.

If you would like more information, Bath u3a members can contact the Group Convenor via the Enquiry link at the top of this page. Non-members should contact the Groups Advisers for more information.