It must be that time of year again: the leaves are changing, the temps are dropping, the squirrels are scavenging, and the members of the OC have been prancing around in matching jumpsuits labeled ‘OC Guide’ all week! PEAK WEEKEND! 

Peak Weekend is an OC tradition that aims to put Laurentians on all 46 of the Adirondack high peaks, within one weekend. This year the program has been slightly abridged due to COVID19—however we the OC are happy to announce 15 hikes shall take place over the course of this coming long weekend (October 9-11). 

If you are an avid reader of the Boot n’ Paddle column you will remember the lore of Peak Weekend teased within last week’s issue. This week however, instead of recommending readers to ‘rub your lucky rabbit’s foot,’ I present practical advice and (hopefully) helpful tips to help you find success in all your future hiking endeavors. 

Tip number one: Get stoked! No matter the mileage, the first step towards a successful hiking experience is attitude. 

Tip number two: Know yourself and plan. Do you get hungry with exercise? Do you know you will need lots of water to say hydrated throughout the day? Do you know your departure time, and know you won’t be able to hit the pub or gas station last minute? Account for and pack everything you will personally need to feel comfortable the night before your adventure (and maybe a little for your friends).

Number three: Gear. Unfortunately, as with many other outdoor activities, hiking does present a bit of a barrier to entry. However, a pair of sturdy shoes, paired with preferably non-cotton clothes, and some sort of waterproof layer, will have you whistling the tune of success in no time. Last weekend we encountered the first snowflakes of the winter, along with lots of wind and considerably colder temperatures. I am bringing two sweatshirts on my hike—one for me, and one for you when you get cold because you didn’t bring enough layers (but please try to bring enough layers). 

Final thing: Us OC members really aren’t as scary as we look. If you are interested in or have signed up for a trip and are now feeling uncomfortable or uncertain because of past experience, ability, or familiarity with the activity, please reach out! As a community, we the OC are here to facilitate and encourage outdoor recreation to all interested members of the SLU student body, regardless of your positionality. I speak for all when I say we value your participation. Now go crush that hike!