Local Outdoor Adventures: Trekking Poles - To use them or not to use them when hiking

2/24/10

Trekking Poles - To use them or not to use them when hiking

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EOZZthccXhE

Whether or not you will be hiking something big like the Alps, watch this video, from my friend and international hiking guide, Greg Witt, as he discusses Trekking Poles.

Even on short day hikes, I highly recommend Trekking Poles. In the beginning, they can make you feel awkward but the more you use them, the more they feel like a vital part of your hiking experience.

Watch this video and learn why I love using Trekking Poles so much.

I personally use the same poles for downhill skiing, snowshoeing and year round hiking. I love them. You can purchase a pair of poles at a thrift store for as little as $3 if you keep your eyes open! Also watch for poles at yard sales, garage sales, Play it Again Sports and other used sports equipment locations if you want to save money.

Important info to read BEFORE hiking/snowshoeing with us...

SAFETY IS ALWAYS OUR TOP PRIORITY

When you hike or snowshoe with my group, you agree to obey some basic safety rules which are for your own protection.

I, with the help of my assistants, been leading outdoor adventures in the Wasatch Mountains for nearly 7 years, with more than 650 successful hikes to our credit.

I believe a big part of our success comes from obeying some important safety guidelines. You will be expected to follow these same rules if you join us.

1) Know your own physical limitations and act accordingly.

2) Cut it short IF you are new to the sport or don't feel comfortable, for whatever reason. Snowshoeing works different muscles than any other sport including hiking. It can be a great aerobic workout!

There is a guide at the front AND at the tail of our group. Get acquainted with my assistants and talk to any of us if you have any problems, questions or concerns.

3) Bring plenty of water (2 liters) and make sure you drink often.

4) Dress in thin layers. Stay away from cotton fabrics. Nylon snow pants work best for snowshoeing. Avoid denim since it absorbs and retains water.

5) Pay attention to the weather. We take the weather conditions seriously and adjust our outings accordingly. We are always out there but we may change the location of where we hike.

6) Don't hike or snowshoe alone. When you go with us, you are expected to stay with one of our groups. We work hard to accommodate you whether you hike slower and/or want to stop and take photos OR stay with us at the front of the group and hike faster OR somewhere in between.

About strong snowshoers: When snowshoeing through deep powder, you may be asked to help us "break trail".

7) Get in the habit of telling someone where you are going and when you plan to return. You can always end sooner if you like, just let us know.

8) During the snowshoeing season, some adjustments may be made based on the most current weather and trail conditions. This will happen at our regularly scheduled meeting place. Because SAFETY is my top priority, I may alter our hiking destination BUT we ALWAYS go somewhere. We don't cancel. The posted meeting place and time remains the same. Until the snow goes away, we will be out there having a BLAST snowshoeing EVERY Saturday morning during the season!

We average around 150 hikes per year locally, including snowshoeing in the winter and cover a wide variety of trails along the Wasatch Front. A smaller group of hikers join us during the week but Saturday is our main hike. Check upcoming hikes a day or two in advance since I may not post complete details until then, due to weather conditions.

In the winter months we snowshoe on trails that are familiar to us and we know are safe.

Hiking/snowshoeing with an experienced group is much safer than ever hiking alone or with people who are not familiar with local trails and terrain.

We strive for unity within our group and appreciate your support and loyalty. Our goal each week is to make sure everyone feels welcome, safe and included.

Hiking is NOT a competitive sport so don't feel like you have to compete or "keep up" with more experienced hikers who are stronger and faster. Hike at your own pace. Stop and rest when you need to, even if that means hiking for 15 minutes and calling it a day! We try to keep a guide at the back of the pack with hikers to make sure no one gets lost and always has someone to hike with.

If you are one of the speedy hikers and want to go faster than the guide, please communicate with them and plan to meet up at certain landmarks every so often.
Come often and I can promise you will be GREATLY rewarded!

Questions, comments or Concerns? Email me anytime: sheryl@liveandthrive.com OR call my cell phone: 801-278-5313

2/24/10

Trekking Poles - To use them or not to use them when hiking

About Me

Over 140 short videos I've made on Youtube...

Important info to read BEFORE hiking/snowshoeing with us...

When Hiking with us, get in the habit of carrying 12 Essentials:

Remember, Going up the mountain is optional, coming down is Mandatory!

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