Joining a club is the best way to start your hiking adventures. Within a club you can benefit from the experience of others, meet new people with the same interest and discover the best trails in Denver. Outdoor enthusiasts are attracted to Denver for its many opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, river rafting and rock climbing, as well as the winter sport of skiing. Beginner hiking clubs in Denver can be found for adults only, adults and kids, all-day hikes, after-work hikes and hikes with your dog, just to name a few. Clubs can have very distinctive personalities, from very competitive and aggressive to laid-back and relaxed. It is important to find a club that fits with your recreational goals.
Women-only Clubs
Denver hosts several women-only hiking clubs. All of these clubs are open to every level of hiker and focus on enjoying the outdoors and camaraderie. There are clubs focused on moms with children under 5 years old, women between the ages of 22 and 42 and women over 40. These clubs do not seem to focus on length or difficulty of hikes but develop different opportunities within each group. Hikers are encouraged to hike at the pace comfortable for them, knowing that at the end of the hike they will not be left behind. One group even sets up other gatherings for its members, including volunteering together, meeting for dinner, movies, and manicure and pedicures.
Hiking With Man's Best Friend
Denver, as a dog-friendly place, of course, has hiking clubs for people who want to hike with their furry friends. As the saying goes, "Dogs don't complete my life, but make my life complete." Taking a daylong hike on the weekend is the ultimate experience for hiking dog lovers. These clubs set up hikes typically ranging from 5 to 10 miles and possibly overnight hike and camping trips. Friendly dogs are welcome and enjoyed by all. Aggressive dogs are not tolerated in these clubs. For the safety of members, the dogs and the environment, each club has strict rules that are expected to be followed and respected.
Older Hikers
Clubs for hikers over 40 are popular in the Denver area. Most of these clubs accept hikers of all levels with the assurance that everyone can hike at their comfort level without the concern of being left behind. Hikes will often have a trail-side lunch or an after-hike picnic or even meeting at a local restaurant. As these groups recognize their members' other interests, some hikes will incorporate birdwatching, photography, spotting for deer and enjoying the magnificence of the trail.
Benefits of Hiking Clubs
Joining a hiking club offers many benefits to someone who is interested in hiking. A club that is open to beginner hikers is even more advantageous. Meeting with others who share the same interest is empowering and can help each individual accomplish more than they thought possible. For beginning hikers, having access to the experience and knowledge of other hikers is invaluable. Not only does this make for safer hikes, it also gives beginners an insight to the most beautiful hikes.
Denver Hiking Tips
Before heading out on your hike, make sure someone else knows where you will be and when you should return. Leaving a map and itinerary in your car is also a good idea. Dressing in layers, wearing a hat and good hiking boots will make all the difference in your hiking enjoyment. Hiking boots one half size larger than your normal shoe size and wearing two pair of socks will take care of your feet throughout the day. Probably the most important tip for any hiker, beginner or experienced, is to never hike alone.
Member Comments