Hiking Sticks

When out geocaching we like to take our high-tech hiking sticks. Now a days they call them trekking poles. There are a variety of different types ranging from cane-like sticks to ones that look like old time hiking sticks to others that look like ski poles. The new trekking poles are telescopic so that you can adjust them to any height you need. This is usefull when going up or down steep hills or when crossing a brook. When you cross a brook by walking across a downed tree adjust the trekking pole to the highest length so you can use it to steady yourself. The one I use also can be turned into a monopod for your camera or binoculars. Both mine and Barb's have shock absorbers in them which is supposed to be easier on your arms although we really have nothing to judge them against so we can't confirm that theory. The poles are also useful for poking around stone walls or in the snow to here that "thunking" sound we have grown to love as the pole hits an ammo can . Probing around with the poles will also scare away any critters that could be troublesome or for me at least in the case of snakes - VERY SCARY!!

We recommed that you go to a store and try them all out before buying one so you can find the style that suits you best. We got ours at Eastern Mountain Sports. The people there are always friendly and helpful.

So -- Go get a trekking pole(s) and find some geocaches!!