FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Hiking Classes

Special note for Cabrillo students: If you are looking for information on the status of a class in the event of rain or other adverse conditions, call the hotline at (831) 477-3700 x1529 for daily updates. You can also leave a message for me and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

1. What is the distance of a typical hike?
At the beginning of the semester we average about 5 miles on terrain that is gradual to moderately steep. Toward the end of the semester we average about 7-8 miles on various terrain, including some extended and steep terrain.

The instructor sets the speed of the group on our hikes. It may seem fast to many students at the beginning but as the semester progresses most students find the pace "comfortable" and a good workout. Students must be able to hike at least 5 miles on mountain trails at the beginning of the semester. Since we will have a large group, it is important that everyone can meet the required minimum level of fitness.

2. Where do most hikes take place?
Typically, we hike in the State Parks and greenbelts within 20 minutes driving time of Cabrillo College. Nisene Marks, Henry Cowell, Fall Creek, Upper UCSC, Pogonip, Moore Creek, Wilder Ranch, Gray Whale, Natural Bridges, Medicine Buddha, Santa Cruz Circle Trail, Upper Cabrillo, Elkhorn Slough, Upper Arana Canyon, and Byrne Forest are examples. For previous semester schedules go here. We occasionally hike along the beach shore and through local neighborhoods of special interest.

3. What is the main emphasis of the class?

The class is designed to be fun and challenging. We will learn a little about flora and fauna, history, and other special attributes of an area, but the main emphasis is movement and physical fitness.

4. Where do we meet for the first class meeting?
See current schedule of hikes for Capitola Rec Dept (Summer 2011) or Cabrillo Cabrillo Extension.

5. How do I sign up for the class?
See the Capitola Rec Dept Activity Guide (Summer 2011) or the Cabrillo College Extension schedule of classes.

6. Can I sign up for the class after the semester has started?
Contact the instructor for late adds.

7. What do I need to bring along on our hikes?
Layered clothing, energy snacks, water, sunblock, insect repellent, hat, small back or fanny pack, small plastic bag, and rain gear/small umbrella if variable conditions.

Good footwear is absolutely essential. Running shoes will work, but some trails can be rough, steep and muddy. Boots offer better support and traction. Light and medium weight hiking boots can be found inexpensively at Big 5 Sports and other local stores. Students arriving with unsuitable footwear will not be allowed on the hike. Good hiking socks are also important.

Hiking in the redwoods (the majority of our hikes) often start with cooler (and occasionally downright cold ) temperatures and then warm up as the day goes on. Layers of lightweight clothing are helpful. Heavy coats and non-breathable clothing are not recommended.

8. How do I get in contact with the instructor?
See my contact information or leave a message at 477-5201 X1529.

9. How about things like poison oak (we will be near it on every hike), ticks, bee stings, mountain lions, rattle snakes, and other potentially dangerous situations?
These issues will be discussed thoroughly in class, especially during the orientation. Natural bug sprays typically found at health food stores are advised. Some research indicates that "Deet" type sprays may be dangerous. Click here for more information.

10. What do we do in case of rain?
An updated message is always available on my office hotline phone (477-5201 X1529) if the weather is variable. Significant rain will result in cancellation of the hike but, within reason, we will try to have the hike. It may be necessary to recheck the hotline if weather is extremely variable the morning of a hike. Rain gear and a small umbrella are strongly advised on potentially rainy days.

11. Can dogs, children, friends or family members come along on some of our hikes?
No, since there are liability issues involved.

12. What about going to the restroom?
We will be near very few restrooms. It is important to avoid caffeinated drinks the morning of a hike. Be sure to use the restroom just before we leave for a hike. On the hike itself we will take occasional short "restroom" (behind a tree) breaks. Special note: We will leave no paper in the woods. Bring a small plastic bag to haul out the paper.

13. What if I arrive late for a hike?
Arrival time is 9:30 AM and we leave soon after. If you arrive late, go home! Do not try to catch up with the group as it is too easy to get lost.

14. What about special health issues or other disabilities?
Students with disabilities, including ÒinvisibleÓ disabilities such as chronic diseases, learning, and psychological disabilities, are encouraged to make an appointment with the instructor to explain their needs and appropriate accommodations. Any health or other issues that may influence a hike should be discussed confidentially with the instructor.

15. If I misplace my schedule, where can I find out about the next hike?
Schedules are posted on my web site. Updated information is always available on the instructorÕs hotline phone (477-5201 X1529).

16. What about parking at Cabrillo?
Students may purchase a parking permit for the whole semester during registration or daily permits for $2.00 at machines located in the parking lots. Parking regulations are strictly enforced at Cabrillo.

17. What is the smoking policy?
Smoking is generally prohibited during our hikes.

picture of cutting of giant redwoods

Cutting of the old growth redwoods for the lime industry (circa 1880) by A. R. Moore

We are accepting (working or not plus accessories) cellphones, iPods, MP3 Players, laptops, digital cameras, all small computer accessories, inkjet printer cartridges, energy bar wrappers (foil inside) and corks to help raise funds for the Orangutan Conservancy, Santa Cruz SPCA and Save Our Shores. Over 2500 cell phones, 50,000 corks, and 19,000 energy bar wrappers have been kept out of the landfill and refurbished or recycled in environmentally-safe ways through our program. They can be given to Phil. Read about the increasingly sad plight of the Orangutan (which is Malaysian for "person of the forest").