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Photo - Trail Leader
In-Person

Trail Leader

$750 / person · 6 hours · In-person

Running a group down a trail is its own skill. This full-day class at Hollister Hills SVRA is about learning to lead: making the calls a trail leader actually makes, not just knowing the vocabulary. We cover the fundamentals of keeping a group safe and organized, including driver's meetings, trip planning, radio communication, responsible land use, and trail etiquette. Then we put it into practice. You'll spot and be spotted, and every participant takes both the lead and tail roles through real obstacles out on the terrain. Groups stay small, so you get plenty of reps. You'll leave ready to keep a group communicating, cohesive, and moving with confidence.

What to bring

  • Driver's license
  • Proof of insurance
  • Water and a packed lunch
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
  • Closed-toe shoes
  • Work gloves - recommended
  • A camp chair (optional)

All participants sign a liability waiver - you'll review and sign it during booking, or read it here first.

Good to know

  • Cell service is limited - save your GPX map offline before you arrive
  • Class runs rain or shine (we only stand down for genuine safety)
  • It's a full day outside
  • Radios are provided for class
  • All needed gear is provided - bring your own recovery gear if you'd like us to look it over

Meeting point & logistics

Hollister Hills SVRA
  • Meet 8:30 AM at Mudstone Ranch (6307 Cienega Rd, Hollister), then caravan to the Main Entrance (7800 Cienega Rd).
  • A $5 Upper Ranch day pass is required - your lead instructor covers it. Ask for a paper map at the gate.
  • Final meet-up point: the Old Oak Tree, Upper Ranch.
  • Been to Hollister before? You can skip the caravan and meet the group directly at the Old Oak Tree in the Upper Ranch - just let us know ahead of time so we aren't waiting for you at Mudstone Ranch.
  • Arrive with at least a half tank of fuel or 50% state of charge (a Tesla Supercharger is about 8 miles away).
  • We wrap up around 3:00-3:30 PM.
  • Plan for about six hours of instruction inside that window - the rest is arrival, air-down, lunch, and wrap-up.
$750 / person

Small groups fill quickly.

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