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Frequently asked Questions

What are the hikes like?

Our hikes or activities are generally single day or weekend events and are listed in the regular club newsletter "The Trail Mix" and in the Hike Schedule on this site. Hikes are usually 5 to 13 miles long with variable elevation changes. They are usually on established trails that are well marked and maintained. We try to travel as a group but allow for faster and slower hikers as needed, there are always hikers of differing abilities and walking speed. We wait periodically to gather the group and be sure no one gets left behind or lost ahead. We generally insist that one stays within site of at least one other hiker. We hike in National forests and the desert, large parks, near lakes etc. Past hikes include the Superstitions Mountains, South Mountain and North Mountain near Phoenix, Monument Valley, Mt. Wilson near Sedona, the Mt. Lemmon near Tucson, the Grand Canyon and the Flagstaff area. There are usually great opportunities to take photos of the scenery, wildlife, other hikers, yourself, etc. We bring snacks to eat on the way and stop for lunch in the longer hikes.
We usually meet somewhere in or near town between 5:00am and 8:00am depending on how far away the hike is. We are usually back in town and heading home by dark.

 

Do I have to drive - I don't have a four wheel drive / have and old car / no car?

Participants may drive or ride with others. If you are certain you don't want to drive to a hike, let the hike leader know and they will see if a ride with another driver can be arranged. Generally we arrange carpools at the meeting site so that extra cars can be left behind and no one has to drive alone if they don't want to. Persons who ride with someone else pay 5 cents a mile to the driver for gas and wear and tear. The meeting place is usually a large parking lot in a shopping center. We park far from the stores and it works well. The hike leader will let the participants know if a four wheel drive vehicle is required to get to the trailhead.

What supplies / preparations do I need on a hike?

At the very least you will need water - probably 3 -5 quarts, it varies greatly with the temp and difficulty of the hike. Most people carry water in bottles in a fannypack or a light backpack with a bottle or two stored in the pack and a couple in holders on each side. Realistically, you want to take water, a good hat (one with a brim to provide shade for your ears, face, and neck), some suntan lotion, snacks, good shoes or boots that are broken in.
That should be enough enjoy a hike if there are no problems. There are a multitude of things that are highly recommended - especially if you are hiking a long way or alone - think about the following:

Things good to carry.

1) Whistle.
2) First aid kit with at least some Band-Aids and tweezers.
3) Knife - Swiss army type is good and not too big or heavy.
4) Comb - to pull out pieces of cactus stuck in ones body (not to mention combing your hair).
5) Rain Poncho - a disposable one for 99 cents takes almost no room.
6) Cell phone - if you have one.
7) Matches / lighter - outdoor suppliers sell waterproof matches.
8)Water.
9) Walking stick.
10) Compass.
11) Map.
12) Flashlight - there are very small ones - makes the difference between hiking after dark and not.

Things good to wear.

1) Hat with brim.
2) Suntan lotion.
3) Good shoes or boots, already broken in - and good socks.
4) Sunglasses - theres a lot of sun around here.
5) Fanny pack or backpack to carry snacks and water supplies.

Things to take to do.

1) Camera.
2) Binoculars
3) Snacks!
4) Guide book on identifying birds, trees, cacti, rocks etc.

Does the club do anything besides day hikes?

We have members involved in other sports too. Some are active bicyclists, backpackers, travelers. We also do car camping sometimes. Any of these activities may be put on the schedule as an event by any member.

When do I have to join?

Prospective members may participate in 2 activities before joining. If you're still not sure, Participate in more and then think about it - we're not keeping close count, the dues just cover the newsletters etc. You get a free tee-shirt when you first join - thats worth the $10, right? If you are in town temporarily and hike with us, don't worry about joining if you don't want to.