Frequently Asked Questions About club Hiking
What are hiking classes?
Most hikes in Red Rock will consist of class 2 & 3 climbs depending on the route taken. A few of the routes have class 4 climbs but only have small sections that are at that level. However, it’s important to be prepared to face those areas.
Most hikes in Red Rock will consist of class 2 & 3 climbs depending on the route taken. A few of the routes have class 4 climbs but only have small sections that are at that level. However, it’s important to be prepared to face those areas.
- Class 1 – Relatively well-marked trails that have little exposure and don’t require much specialized equipment besides your hiking shoes, trekking poles, and the 10 essentials.
- Class 2 – Similar to Class 1 trails but may require the occasional use of your hands for balance or to pull yourself over a small obstacle. May not be very well marked or could require traversing moderately exposed scree slopes or boulder fields.
- Class 3 – More rugged terrain than what you see with Class 2 trails. Usually requires longer sections of scrambling using your hands. There may be substantial exposure on a Class 3 route, so some people choose to climb with a rope to mitigate the risk of a serious fall.
- Class 4 – Similar to Class 3 terrain but with even more exposure. Falling on Class 4 terrain could lead to serious or fatal injuries. Many people opt to use a rope and other climbing protection on Class 4 terrain. Only suitable for very experienced hikers.
- Class 5 – Technical rock climbing. This climbing requires the use of technical rock climbing skills and equipment (e.g., ropes, harnesses, belay device, protection). An unprotected fall on a Class 5 route can lead to serious or fatal injuries. This type of climbing is not allowed in the 52 Peak Club (unless rappelling).
Tips to make the most of your hiking experience
- Almost every hiker worries that they won't be able to complete the hike or don't want to "hold everyone back". PLEASE do not let that be a reason to avoid signing up for a hike! Were all new at one time and I promise their are people on the hike who want/need a slower hiker with them.
- Be on time. In fact, show up at the meetup location a few minutes early. The posted meet time is actually our departure time from the meetup location. We normally carpool to the trailhead to lessen the impact on the parking lots.
- Read and understand the entire hike description and be aware of your skills and abilities to accomplish it.
- Check your email and meetup the day of the hike. Hikes can be cancelled for a number of reasons. We don't want you driving to the meeting place for nothing.
- If you are not feeling well or are nursing an injury, take a rest day...the hike organizor and your fellow hikers will appreciate it!
- We have a zero tolerance policy for hikers who show up intoxicated, bring alcoholic beverages or drugs on the hikes.
- If you RVSP for a hike and no show, you severly jeopardize your ability to be added to the "going" list....ever. If you cannot attend the hike, please change your RSVP status.
- We love pets, guests and children but please leave them home unless the hike organizer allows their participation.
- Understand Hiking Etiquette.
- Know and practice Leave No Trace Principles.
- Bring the 10 Essentials and the packing list per the hike posting.