Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1.   HOW DO I OBTAIN THE CHIEF NOONDAY CHAPTER 'PATCH'?

Patch Information: size about 2" x 4", iron on, at cost of $3.50.   You can purchase one at the chapter meetings or thru the mail.    Or you can route your request through the Webmaster.

2.  HOW DO I JOIN THE CHIEF NOONDAY CHAPTER?

Membership in the Chapter first begins by joining the North Country Trail Association.  Information regarding membership can be obtained by returning to the NCTA Home Page and see 'About the Trail'.  When you join the NCTA among other benefits you will receive the opportunity to indicate with which local Chapter you would like to be associated.  The Chief Noonday Chapter has approximately 200 members and is continuing to grow.  In May of 1996 the Chapter was organized with 12 members present.  A lot has happened since then including the construction of over 40 miles of trail in the three county area (Barry, Calhoun and Kalamazoo) for which the Chapter is responsible.

3.  DOES ANY OF MY NCTA DUES RETURN TO THE LOCAL CHAPTER?

Yes, all local Chapters receive $5.00 for each new member assigned to it as well as a yearly allocation of monies to help in the regular operation of the Chapter.  In addition, Field Grants are available through a simple granting application process that aids the Chapters in funding construction, maintenance and promotion of the NCT.

4.  IS THERE STILL TRAIL TO BE BUILT IN THE CHIEF NOONDAY CHAPTER AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY?

The Chief Noonday Chapter is responsible for the North Country National Scenic Trail passing through the three county area.  When completed, that will be approximately 90-plus miles of trail.  At present we have constructed over 40 miles of trail, and the work continues on a regular basis all year long.  Chapter "trail workdays" are scheduled at least twice each month the year around.  We have yet to cancel a work day because of weather!  Discovering the North Country National Scenic Trail in all of its splendor is exciting, so we take advantage of each Saturday that a workday is scheduled.

5.  DO YOU HAVE TO BE IN TOP PHYSICAL CONDITION?

Physical conditioning is always important, although people of all ages from 8 years old to over 60 actively participate.  Those with physical limitations will also find an important role to play in the Chapter.  For some it is truly a "family outing".  If you cannot work on actual trail construction you may be interested in helping to plan hiking events, Chapter meetings and presentations to community groups.  Everyone can contribute to making the North Country National Scenic Trail a premier hiking trail.

6.  ARE THERE SOCIAL EVENTS PLANNED FOR MEMBERS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR?

All of our social activities occur around the various tasks of building, maintaining and promoting the Trail.  This provides many enjoyable opportunities to meet new people and make new friends, all with a common love for the outdoors.  There is much to see and experience when you are working outside on the Trail.  The magnificent countryside of Barry, Calhoun and Kalamazoo counties provides much to enjoy and experience.  And there is always something new to learn from the varied levels of experience and expertise each member brings to the Trail.   Check out the Events Calendar.

7.  ARE MAPS OF THE TRAIL AVAILABLE?

Maps produced by the North Country Trail Association are available for purchase.  Contact the association office in Lowell, MI -- toll free 1-866-hikeNCT (866-445-3628) or local in Grand Rapids, MI area: 616-897-5987 -- or go on line to the NCTA Trail Shop.  They are also available at at Lee’s Sports & Sportswear in Kalamazoo and at the USFS/NPS Visitor Center in Munising.   You should also check out our chapter Web site's on-line maps.

8.  CAN GUIDED HIKES BE ARRANGED FOR GROUPS WHO WOULD LIKE A PERSONAL PRESENTATION TO THE TRAIL?

The Chief Noonday Chapter would be pleased to discuss with you a guided hike that would meet your groups interest.  Our Activities Coordinator is in charge of this area for the Chapter and has conducted a number of local hikes that have been enjoyed by all age groups.   Check out the Chapter Contacts .

9.  IS SOMEONE FROM THE CHAPTER AVAILABLE TO PRESENT A PROGRAM TO A LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUP?

Yes, arrangements can be made by calling anyone within the chapter, and the latest information is available within our Chapter Contacts web page.
 

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