Some Of My Favorite Hikes

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Exploring the diverse landscapes of the Pacific Northwest has always been a passion of mine. One of my favorite hikes takes me through the arid deserts of Eastern Washington, where the landscape seems to stretch on endlessly under the blazing sun. Trails wind through rugged terrain dotted with sagebrush and desert wildflowers, offering breathtaking views of the vast expanse below. The silence of the desert is broken only by the occasional call of a bird or the rustle of the wind through the grasses, making it a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Venturing further west, I find myself immersed in the lush wilderness of the Olympic and Cascade Mountain ranges. In the Olympics, dense forests give way to towering peaks and cascading waterfalls, creating a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. One of my most memorable hikes here leads me through old-growth forests teeming with life, up to the rugged coastline where the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean meet the rocky shores.

In the Cascade Mountains, I have had the opportunity to explore a variety of trails, from gentle meadow walks to challenging treks. The trails wind through alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers in the summer months, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. Reaching these areas is a rewarding experience, with panoramic vistas stretching as far as the eye can see.

Beyond the Pacific Northwest, my hiking adventures have taken me to Joshua Tree National Park in California. Here, the unique landscape of twisted Joshua trees and towering rock formations creates a surreal environment for exploration. Hiking trails wind through hidden valleys and past ancient petroglyphs, offering a glimpse into the rich history of the desert Southwest.

My love for hiking has also led me beyond the borders of the United States. During my time in the Air Force, I had the privilege of exploring some of the world's most breathtaking landscapes. In the Philippines, I trekked through dense jungles and along pristine beaches, encountering exotic wildlife and vibrant cultures along the way. In Eastern France, Germany, and Austria, I hiked through picturesque villages and rolling countryside, soaking in the rich history and stunning scenery of the European Alps.

Each of these hikes holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of the beauty and wonder of the natural world, and the joy of exploring it with every step.

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The Ten Essentials for Hiking

Navigation

Map and Compass/GPS: Always carry a map and compass, and know how to use them. GPS devices and apps are helpful but can fail without a backup.

Illumination

Headlamp or Flashlight: Bring a headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries to navigate in the dark.

Sun Protection

Sunscreen, Sunglasses, and Sun-Protective Clothing: Protect your skin and eyes from harmful UV rays.

First Aid

First Aid Kit: Include supplies to treat injuries and illnesses. Consider taking a first aid course to know how to use them effectively.

Knife and Repair Kit

Knife or Multi-Tool: Useful for gear repairs, food preparation, and other emergencies.

Fire

Fire Starters: Carry matches, a lighter, and tinder to start a fire for warmth or signaling.

Shelter

Emergency Shelter: A lightweight emergency bivy or space blanket can protect you from the elements if you need to spend the night outdoors.

Extra Food/Water

High-Energy Snacks: Pack extra food beyond the minimum expectation to keep your energy up.
Water and Purification: Carry enough water and a method to purify more if needed.

Extra Clothing

Clothing: In the back-country, conditions can quickly become wet, windy, or chilly, and an injury might lead to an unexpected overnight stay. Therefore, it’s essential to pack extra clothing beyond what you initially planned for your trip. When choosing what to bring, consider what you would need to endure a prolonged period of inactivity in harsh weather. Typical items include 4-5 layers, with at least one waterproof layer such as a poncho or a lightweight jacket with a hood. Be sure to check the weather forecast for the next 3-4 days, including both daytime and nighttime temperatures. For winter adventures, ensure you have insulation for both your upper body and legs.

Crutch In A Clutch Kit

Crutch In A Clutch Kit: This kit allows you to configure a sturdy, under-arm crutch using simple hiking pole crutch kit components and your own trekking poles in less than 5 minutes. The crutch is adjustable to fit individuals from 4 feet to 6 feet 2 inches in height, with a maximum weight-bearing capacity of 125 pounds. It’s a great emergency tool for unexpected injuries on the trail. They can also be used as leg traction in the event of a fractured femur, tibia or fibula.

24 Uses for Trekking Poles

Clearing Path

Use trekking poles to push aside spider webs, branches, or other obstacles on the trail. This keeps your path clear and prevents you from walking into potentially hazardous situations.

Tent Poles

In an emergency, trekking poles can be used to set up a makeshift shelter. By securing a tarp or emergency blanket between two poles, you can create a quick and effective shelter to protect yourself from the elements, such as rain, wind, or sun. This can be crucial for maintaining body temperature and staying dry.

Camera Mount

Attach a mono-pod screw adapter to the top of one of your trekking poles. Most trekking poles have a threaded screw hole at the top, making it easy to secure the adapter. Once attached, mount your camera onto the adapter. Adjust the height of the trekking pole to your desired level and use the wrist strap for added stability. This setup provides a stable base, reducing camera shake and allowing for clearer shots, especially in uneven terrain.

Fishing Rod

In a survival situation, finding food is crucial. Trekking poles can be improvised as fishing rods by attaching a line and hook. This can help you catch fish from streams or lakes, providing a valuable source of nutrition.

Self-Defense

Trekking poles can be used as a means of self-defense against aggressive animals or potential threats. Their sturdy construction and length allow you to keep a safe distance while defending yourself, giving you time to escape or deter the threat.

Snake Removal

If you encounter a snake on your path while hiking, a trekking pole can be a useful tool to safely encourage it to move away. First, maintain a safe distance from the snake to avoid startling it. Using the trekking pole, gently tap the ground near the snake to create vibrations, which will usually prompt the snake to retreat. If the snake doesn’t move, you can carefully use the pole to nudge it from the side, guiding it off the trail. Always be cautious and avoid direct contact with the snake to prevent any aggressive reactions.

Clothesline

Drying wet clothes is important to prevent hypothermia and maintain comfort. Trekking poles can be used to string a line between two points, allowing you to hang wet clothes and gear to dry in the sun or wind.

Measuring Stick

Knowing distances or depths can be important for navigation and safety. Trekking poles can be used as measuring sticks to gauge distances, depths, or heights, helping you make informed decisions.

Splint

If someone suffers a broken or sprained limb, trekking poles can be used to create a splint. By securing the poles alongside the injured limb with bandages, cloth, or even shoelaces, you can immobilize the injury, reducing pain and preventing further damage until professional medical help is available.

Walking Stick

Assist someone who needs support.

Emergency Stretcher

In situations where an injured person needs to be transported, trekking poles can be combined with a tarp or sturdy fabric to create an emergency stretcher. By placing the poles along the sides of the tarp and securing them, you can create a makeshift stretcher to carry the injured person to safety.

Trail Markers

Wrap fluorescent tape around your trekking pole to easily tear off pieces for marking the trail for others to follow. Marking your trail can be important if you need to backtrack or if rescuers are looking for you. Trekking poles can be used to create markers along your path, making it easier to find your way or be found by others.

Flagpole

Hoisting a distress flag or signal can be vital in an emergency. By attaching a brightly colored cloth or flag to a trekking pole and raising it high, you can increase your visibility to rescuers or passing aircraft, improving your chances of being found.

Anchor

In windy conditions, securing your shelter is essential. Trekking poles can be used as anchors to hold down tarps or tents, preventing them from being blown away. By driving the poles into the ground and tying the shelter to them, you can create a stable and secure setup.

Support for Stretching

To keep yourself limber, extend a trekking pole and hook it under your arms behind your back to stretch your back and shoulders before and after hikes.

Leg Massage

Massaging your leg with a trekking pole can be a great way to relieve muscle tension and improve circulation after a long hike. To start, find a comfortable seated position and extend your leg. Hold the trekking pole with both hands, positioning it horizontally across your thigh. Apply gentle pressure and roll the pole up and down your leg, focusing on areas that feel particularly tight or sore. You can also use the pole to target specific muscle groups by pressing it into the muscle and making small, circular motions. Adjust the pressure based on your comfort level, and be sure to breathe deeply and relax as you massage. This technique can help alleviate muscle fatigue and promote recovery, making it a useful addition to your post-hike routine.

Noise Maker

While walking, clack your trekking poles together to create noise and scare away animals you’d prefer not to encounter.

Digging Tool

A trekking pole can be an effective digging tool in various outdoor scenarios. Its sturdy construction and pointed tip make it ideal for digging small holes, whether for setting up a campfire, creating a latrine, or planting a tent stake. By gripping the handle firmly and using the pole’s length for leverage, you can easily break through soft soil or sand. The pole’s versatility allows you to dig without carrying additional tools, making it a practical choice for lightweight backpacking. Additionally, the pole can help clear debris or create drainage channels around your campsite, ensuring a more comfortable and safe outdoor experience.

Balance Aid

Slippery or uneven surfaces can be hazardous, especially if you are injured or carrying a heavy load. Trekking poles can provide extra stability and balance, helping you navigate safely through challenging terrain.

Dry Out Wet Socks/Shoes

Place your trekking poles in the ground and hang your wet socks or shoes on top to dry.

Cooking Utensil

Trekking poles can be used to stir a campfire or cooking pot, keeping your hands at a safe distance from the heat. This can be useful for preparing food or boiling water in an emergency situation.

Exercise

Staying fit and maintaining strength is important in a survival situation. Trekking poles can be used for upper body workouts, such as resistance exercises, to keep your muscles active and strong.

Fire Poker

Managing a campfire safely is important to prevent accidents. Trekking poles can be used to poke and adjust the firewood, ensuring the fire burns efficiently and safely. This can also help in cooking food or keeping warm.

Probe

When navigating through unknown terrain, trekking poles can be used to check for hidden obstacles in water, snow, or dense vegetation. By probing the ground ahead, you can avoid potential hazards such as deep water, unstable snow, or hidden holes.