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Becoming a High Peak hiker

Sweat soaked nearly every inch of my cotton shirt as I hauled across several steep ledges lining the ascent of Big Slide Mountain. My old running shoes, now caked with mud, had just enough grip to scale the steep rocks leading to the summit.

I was spent, annoyed beyond belief by bugs and now shirtless with an inevitable sunburn in the works – but that all seemed insignificant as I marveled at the reward.

The Great Range mountains of the Adirondack Park dominated the horizon. Sheets of trees and massive rock slides led up to their jagged peaks, which appeared to flirt with the clouds. I was humbled and speechless, like an insect on an elephant, as I thought, “Why didn’t I start doing this five years ago?”

I was clearly unprepared for long-distance hiking when I started but quickly learned the ins and outs with the help of some 46ers I knew. Don’t make the same mistake I did and just wing it. Listen to people like Bethany Garretson, a three-time 46er who is climbing all 46 Adirondack High Peaks in eight days this month as part of the “Climb it 4 Climate” fundraiser.

Here are some tips she has for beginners.

Should I prepare before I head out to hike my first High Peak?

BG: Yes, certainly do a bit a of investigation or research before you head to the High Peaks. You can get lots of trail updates online just by typing in the mountain’s name. I would suggest, if you’re a beginner, go to EMS or The Mountaineer or a local gear store and talk to the employees. Not only will they have a lot of advice about which hikes to start with, they will also make sure you have the appropriate gear.

What equipment should I invest in for long hikes?

BG: There’s a lot of gear to invest in, and it can certainly be overwhelming. I’d go to a thrift store and check for fleeces and poly layers. You might already have some of the gear, for example a pack and water bottles. Certainly invest in a map and good pair of shoes. Then, if you are hooked by the hiking bug, you’ll probably amass a closet of gear in no time.

What are the necessities for a hike?

BG: I feel the necessities of a hike depend on distance and where you’re going. However, always bring food, water, map, compass, lighter, appropriate layers, a headlamp … I could keep going. (Also, I’m writing this with summertime hiking conditions in mind.)

What’s not necessary but still nice to bring?

BG: Music is a special treat to bring along! Journal, too! Oh, and a camera.

How should I plan my first adventure?

BG: Before you go, I would talk to someone has done the hike, or better yet, find a friend who has done it and go with them. That’s how I did a lot of my first round of the 46, I’d tag along with more experienced hikers and learn the tricks of the trade. (I personally think it’s the best way to do it.) Also, gauge your physical fitness before you embark. There is a Facebook group called Aspiring 46ers … great group to network with and ask about trail conditions.

I’m at the trailhead. Now what?

BG: Know the weather for the day, and do a double-check to make sure you have everything. Then sign in at a trail register.

What are some good beginner hikes?

BG: I feel the best High Peaks for beginners are Cascade and Porter (though they can be crowded, especially on weekends). Phelps and Wright are great, too, and a little less crowded. And if you’re interested in a great hike that isn’t a High Peak, here are a few: Noonmark, Hopkins, Hurricane, Ampersand and St. Regis.

For more information on Garretson’s lofty fundraising campaign, visit www.paulsmiths.edu/climb-it-4-climate.

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