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FAQ's
At Under Sea, Over Stone (USOS), our hikes are designed to get you out of the everyday and into the outdoors - to connect with nature, with others, and with yourself. We keep things simple, safe, and enjoyable, with carefully chosen trails, a balance of company, and a focus on shared experience. Below, you’ll find answers to the most common questions about how our hikes work, what to expect, and how to prepare.
What hikes do you run?
We choose from a list of USOS Official Hikes - pre-selected walks that are safe, enjoyable, and easy to get to. You can check out the full list in the Blog section of our site.
How do you decide which hike we’re doing?
It’s a group decision! Before each event, attendees vote for their preferred trail. We make sure to cover all directions - north, south, east, and west of Sydney - and go with the majority choice.
How long are the hikes?
Most of our walks are between 5–10 km. Just enough to stretch the legs, soak in the scenery, and still have time for a chat (or a coffee afterwards).
Who comes along?
Richard leads the hikes, and his wife Renee always comes too - making sure we’ve got a good balance of men and women in the group.
Is it safe?
Yes. Safety is a big priority for us:
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Richard holds remote first aid qualifications.
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He’s been trained in navigation by mountaineer Allie Pepper.
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We stick to recognised trails and carry a first aid kit.
What should I bring?
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Water: at least 1–2 litres (more if it’s warm).
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Snacks or lunch: something light and easy to carry.
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Comfortable shoes: hiking boots or sturdy runners.
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Weather gear: hat, sunscreen, and a rain jacket if the forecast looks dodgy.
What happens if the weather’s bad?
We only head out in safe and enjoyable conditions. If it’s going to pour, storm, or hit temps above 28–30°C, we’ll reschedule or postpone. You’ll always be told in advance.
What if I’ve never hiked before?
No worries - we try to make hikes as welcoming as possible, and choose only easy or moderate trails. If you can comfortably walk 5–10 km, you’ll be fine. And the group is always welcoming.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes please. It helps us manage group sizes and make sure everything runs smoothly.
Can I bring kids or pets?
At the moment, these hikes are just for adults. Most of the trails are in national parks where dogs aren’t allowed, and the vibe works best when it’s grown-ups only.