Hiking Sticks

The one-pole method, as demonstrated by Karen Berger

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Hiking sticks are a traditional part of the walker's uniform. As long ago as the Middle Ages, pilgrims on their way to the Spanish shrine of Santiago da Compostela could be identified by their garb and gear, which included a staff. Today, some hikers still use the traditional wooden staff, but more and more backpackers are going high-tech.

The newest trend: using two trekking poles.

I'll admit I was suspicious at first: It seemed to me that here was yet another opportunity to spend money on stuff that maybe wasn't all that necessary.

But then I carried a pair of Leki poles on a winter trip, when I was snowshoeing and hiking. I used the sticks even when my snowshoes were strapped to my pack and I was hiking on dirt. I found that they helped take pressure off my knees, especially on a steep downhill.

I especially like telescoping poles (because they are easier to travel with) and the kind with little shock-absorbing springs (which take even more stress off your joints, especially when you have to take a BIG step down).

Here are some other ways to use them:

• For balance when crossing streams.
• To pitch your tarp.
• For checking to see if there are snakes in the underbrush.
• To wave threateningly at barking dogs.
• As aids to help you get some uphill momentum going.
• To poke a bear-bag into place.
• As a third (and fourth) leg when picking your way through boulder fields.