July 2015: A Note From Diane

July has come and almost gone, but not before I have a chance to say hello!

Because this is prime hiking weather in my neck of the woods, I'll make it short and sweet.

A question.

A piece of gear I've never used, but would like your opinion about.

A hiking vacation discount.

And an update on the hiking courses I'm offering.

Without further ado...

Hiking Cairns - Love 'Em or Hate 'Em?

That's my question to you!

A cairn is a pile o' rocks meant to be helpful: navigational aid, a visual beacon across large distances, a steering post through snow and rock, an obvious human made structure to catch your eye and say "over here".

But lately, everywhere I hike, I see cairns of every size, and can't always figure out the intention behind their construction.

And I'm beginning to wonder - is this a new recreational sport? Competitive cairn construction??

I find myself tempted to dismantle the "artificial" cairns They jangle my sense of immersion in the outdoors.

So imagine my surprise when this article landed in my inbox:

read it here.

Chime in with your opinion, please!

Sun Gloves - Really?

I'm not pushing any particular brand.

Instead, I'm wondering if these gloves are necessary.

I see them more often on the trails than in the past, and wonder how (and why) hiking women are using them.

Any thoughts?

Rants also accepted :)

Hiking Vacation Discounts

The American Hiking Society relies on volunteers to get trail maintenance done on some of the most popular hiking trails in the U.S.

Ever think about being a volunteer?

I can vouch for the fact that spending a week surrounded by like minded folks working on a hiking trail is a blast!

You get to immerse yourself in a new place, save some money on food and shelter, AND walk away with the satisfaction of knowing that you gave back to the hiking community in a very tangible way.

30% discount on some of the trips!

Transitioning Into Solo Hiking Course

Update: This course is no longer offered.

The course begins on September 21, 2015, which is the turn of the season and just the right time to try something new.

And there's a substantial price break if you enroll by August 31, 2105.

This course is for you if you're toying with the idea of trying a solo hike but have some concerns, fears or anxiety.

It's also a great way to prepare for the realities of being responsible for your own comfort and safety on a solo dayhike, an overnight, or a longer adventure.

Built into the course are weekly group Q&A calls, a forum to share information and exchange ideas, and lots of additional resources and materials for you to explore.

But the most exciting part?

It's your opportunity to join a community of hiking women who are ready to expand their horizons - literally!

I've poured lots of love and care (plus my decades of teaching experience) into the course, making it as engaging and worthwhile as I possibly can.

Online learning is fun, convenient, and vastly better than the "4 walls and a white board" world I've spent way too many years in.

So if you're ready to take a long, clear eyed look at how to make solo hiking a reality for you, please consider joining us!

Not ready quite yet to go solo, but wondering "Is solo hiking for me?

I've got you covered!

I just released that very course, with on demand enrollment so you can start (and finish) it whenever you'd like!

That's all for now!

You have my sincere wish for the happiest of trails as July and August roll along.

I love email, so please send me your thoughts, questions, rants and musings.

Take care!

From me to you,

Happy Trails always.

Diane a.k.a. Happy Hiker

diane@hiking-for-her.com