Planning Your Route
Select a good meeting place. It might be a landmark or interesting location that is easy to find, has seating, parking for cars and bikes, or shelter. Make sure attendees can clearly identify the meeting point and that an address or detailed directions can be included in the walk listing. A sign might also be helpful.
Plan an interesting and practical route. Quiet streets and paths make conversation easier. Also consider safe crossings, and barriers to accessibility. If you have accessibility issues (e.g. stairs, uneven ground), mentioning it in your walk description will be helpful.
Keep distance and timing manageable. A route of less than 3 km is recommended. Loop routes, or routes that finish close to the starting point (within a 15 min walk), work best.
Walk the route in advance. This will allow you to identify opportunities and potential issues.
Identify places to stop that can comfortably accommodate everyone in your group. If possible, consider scenic or interesting places. Plan for an appropriate number of stops, as each stop will allow the group to reassemble…
Helpful tool for planning route: https://onthegomap.com/#/create
Making your Walk Accessible
Consider a co-leader or assistant. This might be of particular value if you are anticipating a large number of attendees (20+). The role of the co-leader is to make sure that the group stays together, that they gather in close and uniformly so everyone can hear the leader, and to make the leader aware if they cannot be heard.
Consider amplification. For larger groups (20+) or noisy environments, a portable speaker and microphone can greatly improve the experience. (We have one if you would like to borrow it)
Identify potential accessibility issues. Consider barriers such as uneven terrain, stairs, or limited seating. If issues cannot be avoided, include this information in the walk description so participants can plan accordingly.
Prepare for unexpected situations. Develop contingency plans for weather, construction, route changes, or other potential disruptions.
Making your Walk Interesting and Meaningful
Start with introductions – share who you are and why you have decided to lead this walk. Maybe you bring expertise or a different perspective.
Encourage participants to connect. Consider asking where people are from and what brought them to the walk.
Create opportunities for participation. Invite attendees to ask questions, share observations, and contribute their own stories and perspectives. Be sure to account for discussion time when planning your schedule.Bring supporting materials. Notes, photographs, maps, or artifacts can help enrich the experience and support your storytelling.
