Hikers react to Bob's choice of outfit accessories . . .
We are a group of "mature" male hikers (there is a parallel women's group) who meet thrice weekly to walk somewhere in the greater Bellingham area. Virtually all are retired, but some participants continue to work -- this aberration is welcomed by the group, who believe someone needs to be paying into Social Security and Medicare so we can continue to enjoy our dotage. More "experienced" hikers have established a secondary group named "Ten Flat" that does shorter, less challenging walks.
Our walks typically last 75 to 120 minutes and cover a distance of from 3 to 5 miles (on occasion 6 miles). Our pace on flat terrain with a good trail surface is typically about 3 MPH. However the group often breaks into faster/slower components during the outing. No special equipment is required (some hikers use poles for the climbs some routes entail), but decent shoes and an available rain garment are often useful.
In summer months we organize weekly trips to hike in the mountains, on a flexible schedule based on weather forecasts.
In town hikes are followed by lively and notionally informed discussion at a nearby coffee shop. Mountain hikes require a brief beer stop on the return journey.
Our walks typically last 75 to 120 minutes and cover a distance of from 3 to 5 miles (on occasion 6 miles). Our pace on flat terrain with a good trail surface is typically about 3 MPH. However the group often breaks into faster/slower components during the outing. No special equipment is required (some hikers use poles for the climbs some routes entail), but decent shoes and an available rain garment are often useful.
In summer months we organize weekly trips to hike in the mountains, on a flexible schedule based on weather forecasts.
In town hikes are followed by lively and notionally informed discussion at a nearby coffee shop. Mountain hikes require a brief beer stop on the return journey.