Skoki Mountain, carrying a 42lb backpack, scrambling, blisters and taking in the raw beauty of the mountains…this was my first backcountry adventure!A few things I learned along the way:
Ensure the new hiking boots are well worked in! Hikes around the Meawasin Trail in Saskatoon will not do the job…as Alicia, one of our leaders said “the words City and Hike don’t really go together!”
Bring lots of blister bandages and tape to keep the feet in good shape! Luckily our group was well prepared and willing to share with me.
Two hiking poles are better than one! I didn’t realize the importance of the poles and thought I’d just bring one in case I needed it…I know better for next time!
Preparing dehydrated ‘gourmet’ meals is the way to go…it’s one thing I did right! No need to settle for processed packaged noodles!
Scrambling means climbing to the PEAK of the mountain….I’m not sure what exactly I thought it meant, but was excited and leery to realize (while climbing) that I really was going to the top of a mountain! It was very cool! We enjoyed a break for lunch and took in the incredible sights from the top of Skoki Mountain!
Scree….is fun! Coming down the mountain on the back of my heels, flying through the scree definitely made the climb worth it!
A 2-person tent can actually fit 7 people in it for a game of cards!!
You can’t bring enough bug spray! The bear spray on the other hand didn’t get used, even though we did see a cub, luckily from a distance. He looked friendly to me?!
It’s important to have good leaders who are knowledgeable and patient and are happy to share all that they have learned from their own experiences….I was happy to have Alicia and Eric lead the way!
All in all, it was a great experience - challenging, inspiring, peaceful and breathtaking too! I am happy I found this group through the ACC and was able to take part in the adventure! Hopefully I can take away what I learned and encourage my friends to join me next time!
Lana Stark
