505 Outside

In this group we do weekly cardio hikes to gain fitness for longer weekend hikes, We also have some social events for group participants. Our goals for the group are to develop a sense of community among members centered around hiking and fitness. Our hikes are fairly fast paced. We enjoy athletic hiking. We still appreciate nature. We look forward to having new members in our group. The format of the cardio hikes is intended be accessible to newcomers

Cardio Hikes:

These are hikes of 4 to 5 miles in length with around 1000 feet of elevation gain. Most are out and back. This format allows hikers to do the uphill portion at their own pace. We have a designated turnaround point and time. If you don't reach the turn around point by the designated time, you turn around and head back to the starting point. The faster hikers will catch you on the way down. You may find yourself hiking alone or in smaller groups hiking a similar pace on the uphill. Hiking down as a group is encouraged. This is an opportunity to get in a cardio workout at a pace that works for you and get in some social time as well.

Group Hikes:

These are typically longer - 8 or more miles. How long depends on the wants of the group. We will offer some variety in the distance. We will have some hikes with increasing distance from spring to fall with the goal of hiking the length of the Sandias (26 miles) in the fall. Group hikes are not cardio hikes. We hike as a group. Hikers are no more than a few minutes apart. The pace is reduced to be sustainable over longer distances. Anyone consistently reaching the turnaround point on the weekly cardio hikes should feel comfortable on weekend hikes of 8 to 12 miles. If you do those, maybe you want to go further...

Social Events:

We will have some social events for those participating in our hikes. These include short evening hikes followed by pizza/beer or similar and hiking committee meetings. Hiking committee meetings don't include any hiking. They may or may not include any planning.

My expectations:

You signed up with the intent to go because you value your commitment to yourself and others. You are prepared to hike in changing conditions. You can address your needs around food, water, clothing, and any health needs that are unique to you. You are generally capable of returning to the starting point and going on about your life unassisted, but would rather participate in our community. You have night vision or have brought a source of light. You didn't try to convince me that your cell phone is a source of light because you recognize the utility of having a battery that supports communication should that be necessary.

Why this group:

I've always wanted first and foremost to create an experience where people want to come back. If you need something, let me know.

I would like this group to be a place where we get to know each other while always welcoming the newcomer. I'd like this group to be fitness minded and accessible at the same time. Let's go fast uphill. It's easier to fall uphill really. Let's take our time going downhill. Let's be social. Then we get to do both. We get the fitness thing done. We get community.

With this in mind I'd really like those of you who sign up to mean it. We see new faces on the list and people we'd like to see again. We're disappointed when you don't come. This is a great group! Why are you bailing out at the last minute? The weather? Let's experience it together.

If you're not convinced yet and still reading, please understand that people don't like last minute changes. You making the space available at the last minute does not help. They made other plans. You're not doing anyone a favor. You just didn't show. You gave up the opportunity and denied it to someone else. These are the facts.