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The Mazamas are the most respected hiking/climbing group in my area. Last year around this time I tried to join their 'rambles', which was mid week city walks to help people keep trail fit. It went super bad and was super awkward. Last year's attempt to join if you are curious.
Last week went fine. It did what it said on the tin. I joined the slowest group which is supposed to be for beginners and those in recovery from injuries.
This week was a bit different. Since last week's had been such an easy stroll, I decidied to carry weight in my pack this time. I also carried my heaviest camera set up because I planned to grab a shot I need for a gallery on my way back. This time the extra slow group did Hoyt Arboretum. Listed pace was 2.65, which is pretty brisk. The hike was done in a 7 mile loop over 2 hours. 7/2=2.65 apparently? Also it was 800 feet of elevation change and we went into a wooded area in complete darkness. This would typically be a very do-able hike for me, but not at the pace we did and not without breaks. I mean, I did it. Afterwards I was halfway to walking to the vantage point for the shot I wanted and just decided I was pooped and headed home.
So, it was a mix. I can keep up and this should be good training for me. It's mid-week after work which is what I want. But 800ft of EG at that pace is not beginner. A good chunk of the group noped out.
This is part of why I am going, though. I can do very long hikes, but I go slow. This means I can't do most meetup hikes and stuff. I lag behind. I am trying to up my speed, or at least be able to so I can hang with other hikers. On my own I go slow.
Last week went fine. It did what it said on the tin. I joined the slowest group which is supposed to be for beginners and those in recovery from injuries.
This week was a bit different. Since last week's had been such an easy stroll, I decidied to carry weight in my pack this time. I also carried my heaviest camera set up because I planned to grab a shot I need for a gallery on my way back. This time the extra slow group did Hoyt Arboretum. Listed pace was 2.65, which is pretty brisk. The hike was done in a 7 mile loop over 2 hours. 7/2=2.65 apparently? Also it was 800 feet of elevation change and we went into a wooded area in complete darkness. This would typically be a very do-able hike for me, but not at the pace we did and not without breaks. I mean, I did it. Afterwards I was halfway to walking to the vantage point for the shot I wanted and just decided I was pooped and headed home.
So, it was a mix. I can keep up and this should be good training for me. It's mid-week after work which is what I want. But 800ft of EG at that pace is not beginner. A good chunk of the group noped out.
This is part of why I am going, though. I can do very long hikes, but I go slow. This means I can't do most meetup hikes and stuff. I lag behind. I am trying to up my speed, or at least be able to so I can hang with other hikers. On my own I go slow.
no subject
Date: 2019-12-08 12:38 pm (UTC)From:no subject
Date: 2019-12-08 08:49 pm (UTC)From:I am sticking with them, unless they piss me off too much, because I've been hearing since I moved here than the outdoors trips I want to are done through them. They own certain remote cabins and other things. If I want access, I need to be in with them.