By Debbie Gardner
debbieg@thereminder.com
Geraldine Morgan hasn’t always been a hiker. But when she reconnected with what she called “a love for all types of trees,” some years back, there was no stopping her. For the past six years Morgan has been one of the hike leaders for the Wilbraham Hiking Club.
“Jay Taylor started the Wilbraham Hiking Club shortly after my retirement. We became friends from the first hike I attended to the present. It took awhile to convince me to start leading hikes, but I haven't looked back.”
Prime asked Morgan about the benefits of hiking, and how a novice might get started. Here are her answers:
Q: There are lots of ways for individuals to reap the health benefits of being outdoors. Why would you recommend someone try out hiking?
“Here’s my story as an example: I've had a love for all types of trees my entire life, but let extra weight, and work stand in the way of getting into the woods. Starting with one girlfriend who shared this feeling, we got a hiking guidebook for Western Mass and took it on the trail at the Notch, reading the book as we walked along.
“Of course, we had to stop frequently to look at the surroundings, but as we talked to others, and stopped at the ranger station we became less reliant on the text and noticed trail markers to guide us. It was thrilling to learn the stories of Shea's rebellion and the part the Horse Caves played in Revolutionary history.
“Hiking has given me confidence. Now, leading hikes [for the Wilbraham Hiking Club] allows me to pass my knowledge of our local trails and stories to new friends. It's very cool to finish the hike and realize how, step by step, we climbed hundreds of feet, traversed boulders and navigated streams.
“Honestly I don't remember having a cold or flu since being outdoors part of every day.
“And then there’s the proven health benefits. Scientific studies in Japan show reduction in stress hormone Cortisol after a walk in the woods.”
Q: What are the important things a beginner hiker needs to know – and equipment he or she needs on hand – before setting out?
“Beginning hikers require a few items, but these last a long time and wear well. Hiking boots, above or below ankle will provide traction. Hiking or ski poles aid balance and take pressure off knees on downhills. A small pack for water, snack, Band-Aids, bug spray, etc. keeps arms free. Layered clothing works best. Hiking pants have multiple zippered pockets and are made of fabric that doesn't snag on pricker bushes.
“Ticks are endemic in our area, tuck pants into socks and thoroughly spray areas where they may find a place to crawl on you. I also spray my hat and visor. Remember, they want your blood!!!”
“Also, I never hike alone, choosing sidewalks in my neighborhood if I can't find a partner to walk in the woods.”
Q: Can you recommend one or two local trails that would best suit a beginning hiker? Is it advisable to join a group hike the first few times out?
“We are blessed with many trails in [Wilbraham]. Some of my favorites are Rice Preserve, Crane Hill Summit, Goat Rock in Hampden, and Conant Brook Dam in Monson.
“I strongly advise joining a group, hikers are some of the best folks on earth. Meetup.com has hundreds of groups both locally and globally, for almost anything you want to do. Check it out!
“See you in the woods.”
The Wilbraham Hiking Club hikes all year long, from two to three times a week. Hikes vary in degree of difficulty. For more info visit meetup.com. or wilbraham-ma.gov/hiking. The town web site redirects visitors to the club’s list of monthly hikes.
