What's the Mystery??

Well, no-one knows where we are going until we turn up at the meeting point. (Except me that is )

Where do we go?

Our stomping ground here in Co Donegal is anywhere within a 15-minute drive of our meeting point in Stranorlar. We'll cover paths around Barnes Gap to Glenfin, from Raphoe to Castlederg and anywhere in between.

How far do we walk?

Between 5km and 8km in the winter months. So about 1.5 hours of walking time.

Do you really walk in the dark?

YES!!! That's part of the fun. We keep it safe by staying off busy roads. We are often walking on forestry roads, bog tracks or very minor roads.

I don't have anyone to come with me. Is it ok if I come along on my own?

I started the group because I had newly moved back to the area and needed to find some walking buddies, so I know all about turning up on your own. The group is super friendly, and many people find they make friends that they go walking with on other days. Please just message me in advance if you want to come along on your own and need to feel there is a friendly face waiting for you. Otherwise, just show up and we'll look after you.

Where do you meet?

We meet opposite Andies Supermarket in Stranorlar. Leaving there at 6.30pm every week and return by 8.30pm / 9pm approx.

Is there a charge?

Mystery Hike Nights are free and fun. I run it because I love getting out and meeting new people.

I promise - there's no catch!

I haven't done much walking. Will I be able to keep up?

You do need a little fitness to come on our walks, but probably not as much as you think. Personally, I'm quite a slow walker, so everyone has to wait for me anyway. Message me in advance if you are worried and I'll make sure that the route we are doing that week is suitable.

Do you have a fitness plan to follow?

Mystery Hike Nights are not primarily fitness walks. Their main focus is to be a social meet up. If you are new to walking, or haven't been out in a while, they aim to build your confidence and give you a group of people to connect with. If you are a more experienced walker hopefully they will be a nice mid-week addition to your walking experiences.

Do I have to have my own car?

No. You should have your own transport if possible, but we can arrange lifts if you message us beforehand.

What should I wear/ bring?

• Good walking shoes/ boots. Although the route planning always takes into account the weather conditions, this is Donegal and paths often get wet underfoot. Come prepared.
• Walking clothes suitable for the weather.
• Juice or water.
• Snacks if you need them.
• A torch or headtorch
• A high viz jacket (although we have spare if you don't have one already)

Always check the forecast. - you may need your winter coat, or you may need sunscreen... This is Donegal after all

Are there any age limits?

We normally ask for participants to be aged 16 or over. There is no upper limit. We have members who are aged between 18 and 75.

Do I have to sign anything?

On your first hike we will ask you to fill in a standard form. Or you can click on the orange button below this text, to fill it out online. The form will

• ask for your contact information which we will use to keep in touch with you.
• explain how we keep and use any personal data you provide us
• ask you to confirm if you are ok for your photos to be used on our social media
• ask you to provide an emergency contact
• ask you to confirm if you have any medical issues we need to be aware of in case of an emergency
• ask you to read and confirm you understand a short health & safety statement.

Are dogs welcome?

We try to be dog-friendly where possible. First, we will respect the group. If we have hike members who aren't happy with dogs to join us, then we'll rule it out.

Otherwise: Dogs must be well socialised (friendly to people and other dogs), walk well on leads and, if off lead, have great recall. We cannot take responsibility for your dog or its behaviour on the walks. You will be expected to be in control at all times. You must follow the instructions of the walk leader regarding whether dogs should be on or off lead.

If the route is dog friendly we include it in our weekly message.

How do you keep in touch?

We have a WhatsApp group and a Facebook Group. where we regularly share information about the walks and any requirements ahead of the next outing.

If possible, we ask that you join the WhatsApp Group as that is where last-minute changes typically get posted. However, we realise that you may not be comfortable with your phone number being shared with others. If this is the case we can also communicate privately on Whatsapp or a social media channel.

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Disclaimer:

When organising Mystery Hike Nights we do our best to make sure all routes are safe and accessible. However, outdoor walking/ hiking is just like any other outdoor sport and comes with its own risks. In joining a Mystery Hike Night you accept responsibility for your own safety, and to act responsibly towards others. If you have any concern about the suitability of any walk for your ability or fitness levels please contact me.

We are insured under the 'Get Ireland Walking' insurance scheme.