Visitors from the Big Parade blog, these final instructions are copied from the
main Big Parade page. Check there for more info.
STEP ZERO: The Big Parade is a big walk in a big city, and as such, it requires a good amount of self-sufficiency. We walk together, and we walk at a pace that invites everyone. We provide a route, stops, and information along the way, but you’re responsible for keeping up with our reasonable pace, for your health and safety, and your transportation to and from the route. You must read through every one of these steps, and by joining us, you’ve agreed that you understand them and that you’ll follow them. OK?
STEP ONE: Choose your method. You can meet us at our pre-selected join points or anywhere along the route. If you choose the latter, we recommend stairways, because they are numbered on both our maps and timetables.
STEP TWO: Find your join point. Use the maps and the timetable, which have specific join and stairway locations. Print a zoomed copy of the map section you’ll be following, if you can. We stay together as a group, so you don’t have to worry about getting lost or left behind, but you should have a sense of where you’ll be going, since in some cases you may need to find your way back (see Step Four.) DON’T FORGET TO RECHECK THE MAPS AND TIMETABLES ON FRIDAY NIGHT, BECAUSE THEY MIGHT CHANGE!
STEP THREE: Figure out how you’ll get there. The join points have various qualities, including ease of route, scenery, neighborhood, and accessibility. The revised timetables will help you choose which point is best for you and how to get there.
STEP FOUR: Figure out how you’ll get back. You’re completely responsible for returning to wherever you met us. For most of the join points, that’s easy; we’ve set it up so that you’ll either retrace a few of your steps, or have a simple walk of five or ten minutes. If you’re coming along at non-designated join points, you’ll need to get back via other methods. You can arrange a car shuttle with friends, or use mass transit. Check back for a list of nearby bus stops and Metro stations, or visit www.metro.net for a complete route finder.
STEP FIVE: THE SCHEDULE!!!! We will do our best to adhere to the timetables. Unfortunately, there are no guarantees, since this kind of thing has never really been tried. We’ll probably do better early in the day. This is key: We won’t depart any given stop before the scheduled time. If you’re there early, and we’re not there, wait for us and we will be. If you’re late, and we’re not there, you’ve missed us. The absolute best way to figure out where we are is to follow us on Twitter. We will be updating our location every few minutes, and each time we reach a stairway or a designated join-point, so you’ll know in advance when we’re approaching.
STEP SIX: PROTECT YOURSELF. You are responsible for your health and safety. The most important thing for you to remember is that it is going to be hot. Here’s what you need to do (sorry if this sounds ugly, but we’ve to give this kind of advice.)
• Stay hydrated. The revised timetable will mark sections where there are retail locations where water may be available for purchase. However, there are no guarantees.
• Minimize your body temperature. DON’T WEAR DARK CLOTHING OR A DARK HAT. Light-colored garments will keep you cooler.
• Wear a hat. A baseball cap is OK, but it will leave your neck exposed. A full brim is better.
• Use sunscreen. Lots. Reapply frequently.
• Bring snacks or lunch. We’ve got a few designated rest stops, but they’re short. You may not have the opportunity to purchase anything substantial. Bring what you need.
• Have a buddy. If you get tired, feel sick, or otherwise feel like you can’t go on, you’ll need somebody to take care of you.
• Soothe your feet. Wear shoes that you know are comfortable walking in. You might consider rubbing some lotion on your feet before you put your socks on; it can help avoid blisters.
STEP SEVEN: CAMPING. Info on camping - for logistical purposes - will be posted Friday evening. Because of limited space, camping is only open to two-day walkers who have also been pre-approved by the Big Parade Team (sorry, there’s just not enough room for everyone.) Contact us
here if you haven’t already.
BUT REMEMBER THAT THERE’S NO WHIP-CRACKING IN THE PARADE. Though we have a timetable to meet, we’ve set it up for a slow and easy pace. Endurance is required based on the time you want to spend with us, not the speed at which you walk. AND DON’T FORGET TO CHECK BACK ON FRIDAY FOR THE FINAL TIMETABLES!
