Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking
What are the different hiking classifications?
Most hikes in Red Rock 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. However, it’s important to be prepared for those climbs.
Most hikes in Red Rock 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. However, it’s important to be prepared for those climbs.
- Class 1 – Relatively well-marked trails that have little exposure and don’t require much specialized equipment besides your hiking shoes 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.
- 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.
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 there 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 the hike.
- 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 severely jeopardize your ability to be added to the "going" list....ever. If you cannot attend the hike, please change your RSVP status. It only takes a minute.
- We love pets, guests and children but please leave them home unless the hike organizer allows them.
- Understand Hiking Etiquette.
- Know and practice Leave No Trace Principles.
- Bring the 10 Essentials and the packing list per the hike posting.