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GET READY TO GO HIKING

Blisters and sore muscles can be good for you. This is especially true when those temporary aches and pains lead to the permanent memories of a great hiking vacation.

According to walking tour companies like The Wayfarers, GORPtravel, Country Walkers, Mountain Memory Walks, and many others, hikers are hitting the trails in record numbers, combining fitness, fresh air and first-hand views of destinations from Malibu to the Matterhorn. Those taking these paths less travelled can benefit greatly from the experience of walking tour specialists.

Of course, many independent travellers realize they could probably arrange a hiking adventure on their own. While this may seem to offer great flexibility and lower prices, the advantages of an organized trip can include: saving time, headaches, and hassles by having someone else plan all of the logistics and details; the local experience of the company; several daily options; the services of a guide; baggage shuttles; like-minded hiking companions; and package pricing. Whether you’re hoofing it around the corner or around the world, commercial hiking trips offer the right way to walk.

Choosing the right trip (with the right company) is the most important decision when it comes to a hiking adventure. This is the time to let your fingers do the walking before your feet hit the trail. It’s easy to call or email appropriate companies to request catalogs and also visit their websites (not all information may be included with both resources, so it’s best to peruse both printed catalogs and websites.

Choosing the right trip

The right trip involves many factors, including: destination; level (or lack of) luxury; accommodations; difficulty level; experience or fitness level required; best time of year; number and type of people typically on the trip; and family-orientation. All of these questions should be addressed when analyzing the appropriateness of a trip (again, catalogs and websites typically tackle all of these directly--if they don’t, call the company and ask).

Of course, the location for a hiking idyll is possibly the most important choice. North America options can start with one-day or weekend outings to nearby trails and range up to multi-week and -activity options in wilder regions, including the northeast, the Alleghenies, the Rockies of both the U.S. and Canada, Alaska, Mexico, and more. Some companies, like Virginia-based Mountain Memory Walks, specialize in a relatively small area (the Blue Ridge Mountains). Others, like The Wayfarers, Country Walkers, and GORPtravel, offer trips throughout the U.S.

On the international hoofing horizon, the trails and destinations are virtually infinite. Europe beckons with history, culture, and cuisine (for instance, Wayfarers has 21 options), Central and South America offer more exotic adventures (Country Walkers features adventures in Belize, Costa Rica, Peru, and Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands), and Asia, Africa, and South Pacific offerings are increasing faster than a speeding hiker (the possibilities include hiking safaris, Nepal treks, and much more). It’s really a matter of choosing a place you want to explore at a slower pace (though the terrain you’ll trod may also influence this decision--see below).

The level of luxury (often referred to as the ‘style’) of the trip is another important question to address. This can range from rustic to the loping along in the lap of luxury. The ‘rustic’ trips may require participants sleep in sleeping bags and tents, carry their own gear, share camp duties, and more. The upscale luxury trips require little more of participants than putting one foot in front of the other, lifting their own glass of wine, and pulling their covers up in a luxurious hotel room. Most trips fall somewhere in between, but it’s important to discern what type of trip it will be and what’s right for you.

The difficulty level can include daily mileage (8-10 miles is typical, but this can vary greatly), altitude gain and loss, terrain (e.g., off established trails), mountaineering, and more. Given this, it’s important to match your fitness level and experience with that of the trip (if you’re not sure, ask the company’s advice). Most trips require little or not experience, though they do like to see fit travellers.

The best time of year to take a trip is typically determined by the company. There’s always a perfect time for hiking somewhere in the world, but ‘shoulder season’ trips can often mean smaller groups, discounts, and special opportunities. Of course, it can rain during the ‘wet’ or ‘dry’ season, but most companies continue their hikes as planned (though some participants choose these rainy days to taste wines, go shopping, or take a ride in the support van).

Depending on your personality, the number and type of people typically on the trip may make or break a trip. A typical group has eight to 12 participants, with a 1:4 guide-to-guest ratio. You should expect like-minded people to choose similar trips, so choose carefully. Most groups have no trouble bonding quickly (including singles, who are frequent hiking trip participants).

As for family-orientation (one of the fastest-growing trends in adventure travel), this can be a key question for those who want to bring children, as well as those who don’t want their particular adventure to include them. Both groups should ask the company if the trip is ‘family-focused’ (designed specifically for families), ‘family-friendly’ (kids are welcomed, but the trip is primarily designed for adults), or has some sort of minimum age limit (sometimes 12 or 18).

What to expect

Each trip will have it’s own idiosyncrasies, but the daily routine of most of the adventures is similar. Many questions involving expectations revolve around when the day will start and end and when you’ll eat.

Typical days begin with breakfast around 8am, when the day’s hiking and exploration options are discussed (there are often different mileages and difficulty levels offered). Hiking usually begins around 9am or so, with lunch ‘on the trail’ mid-day and hiking ending around 4pm. Again, commercial trips offer support vans and, thus, many options (like hiking only in the morning and visiting an olive oil operation in the afternoon).

Dinners are usually a group affair and the gourmet offerings can vary greatly. Most groups tend to gather for a ‘social hour’ around 6pm or so and then enjoy supper around 7pm. Active days on two feet typically lead to tired participants and early bedtimes.

Of course, the style of the trip can change the daily routine a bit. Some of the trips further afield may require breaking down camp, fixing your own lunch, or hiking more than six hours a day.

Getting ready

The key to preparation is knowing your current fitness level and learning if this needs to change, based on the requirements of the trip. Your chosen company can help analyze this and provide a plan if you need to make some progress before the trip.

Most companies cover this in their catalog, on their website, or in pre-trip materials, but typical suggestions include: hiking similar mileages and elevation changes several times before the trip; making sure hiking boots (above the ankle) fit and are broken-in adequately; and staying hydrated and fit with a well-balanced diet.

Stuff to bring

Again, companies will probably provide a comprehensive ‘packing’ list, but don’t forget suitable, comfortable, and sturdy boots, several pairs of appropriate hiking socks, moleskin, a good two-piece rainsuit, and layers of fast-drying lightweight clothing. Typically, food, water, and other necessities will be provided by the company.

TIPS FOR THE TRAIL (courtesy of The Wayfarers)

Whether making the grade up an Alpine slope, traveling over Tuscan Hills and Yorkshire Dales, or following the footpaths of France, The Wayfarers offers this advice for walkers who want to maximize enjoyment and minimize problems on the trail.

WALK & WEAR

KEEP BREATHING. Spring and fall walks usually require warmer clothing and The Wayfarers recommends dressing in several layers of thin clothing rather than one heavy jacket. This provides both warmth and ventilation and layers can be removed or added according to the weather.

A waterproof jacket that doubles as a wind-breaker works best. Jackets made of Gore-Tex, preferably with air vents, keep out the rain and "breathe" to prevent condensation caused by body heat.

KEEP IT LIGHT. Lightweight polyester pants are preferable to jeans or heavy cottons, which can be uncomfortable in wet or warm weather.

WHAT'S AFOOT

FIRM FOOTING. Just do it--but not in jogging gear. Sneakers and running shoes won't provide enough support or sufficient traction. Heavy leather boots can be a drag. Instead, hit the road in lightweight, over-the-ankle boots with a lining that lets your foot breathe. Get a grip on that slippery slope with grooved soles that are also thick enough to provide a cushion. Boots should support the ankle and be water-resistant. New footwear should be broken in before you take a hike.

SOCK IT TO ME. The secret of successful foot care is keeping the foot dry. The Wayfarers recommends thin cotton socks worn under another, thicker pair .

TOTES ON THE TRAIL

IN THE BAG. On a Wayfarers walk, there's no need to carry heavy luggage or even a backpack--all baggage is sent ahead in a special van. However, most walkers like to bring a few things in a lightweight backpack

The Wayfarers recommend sunscreen, an extra pair of socks, a small water bottle and wet weather gear. Another option--the traveler's versatile friend, a Swiss Army Knife.

BE PREPARED

LET THE SUN SHINE. Given the current state of the ozone layer, a sunscreen is essential and sunglasses are recommended, even in cloudier climes. A hat will protect against sun and rain, a lightweight rain jacket or poncho should be kept on hand for sudden showers.

FOOTLOOSE AND PAIN FREE. Moleskin, available at any drug store, will keep blisters at bay.

WORK IT OUT. While a Wayfarers walk can be enjoyed by anyone in good health, walkers who exercise in advance will make the most of the walking tour. Head for the hills as part of the regimen--walks usually include some gentle climbs. However, those in need of a rest, can always hop aboard The Wayfarers' support vehicle and ride the rest of the way.

THE WAYFARERS

A leading operator of walking tours in the British Isles, France, Italy, Switzerland, The Wayfarers have expanded this year into New Zealand and the U.S. The Wayfarers offers 25 walking tours for the 2000 season (January - October). Prices range from $1990- $3200, depending on the program chosen. Each walk focuses on the history , culture, food, wine and spectacular natural beauty of each destination. The price includes all accommodations in charming and comfortable country inns; breakfast, pub lunch or picnic, and dinner with wine daily; transportation of baggage and the full-time services of an experienced and expert Walk Leader and Walk Manager. City add-on stays are available for London, Paris and Rome starting at $375 per person.

Groups are limited to 12-16 participants. Walks provide gentle exercise--approximately 10 miles a day and transportation is always available for travelers who wish to walk only part of the way. The Wayfarers leaders are experts in the history, literature, art and culture of the region and can provide an in-depth and inside view of Europe's most memorable countryside.