Saturday, January 02, 2010

Group hiking etiquette for the new year

I went for a hike today. I had to lead other people.

I don't think it is fair to the others to show up for a hike listed as strenuous if you are not able to maintain a 3mph pace yourself.

I don't think it is fair to the others to show up for a hike listed as strenuous and then stroll along like you are window shopping at the mall even though you are capable of walking faster and can plainly see that everyone has vanished up ahead of you.

And I definitely think if you have decided to take up hiking because it's the New Year and you have a resolution to lose weight you should stay home if the hike is rated as strenuous.

So please, everyone out there. If you see a group hike listed somewhere and it says the hike is strenuous or that there is 2000+ feet of elevation gain or that the pace is going to be fast, please, please stay home if you are new to hiking, or if your doctor said to get some moderate exercise or if you don't have proper gear for hiking. The gear does not have to be elaborate or expensive, but the things you have with you should indicate that you understand what is required to hike for 4-6 hours comfortably.

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