So You Want to Hike? An Introduction to Hiking

Curious about hiking but not sure where to start? Learn the basics, build your confidence in two class sessions and take it to the trail at Goodman Mountain.

This beginner-friendly fall hiking series is designed for people who have always wanted to hike but aren’t quite sure where to start. No need to consider yourself “outdoorsy,” own a bunch of gear or have any previous hiking experience to join.

The course begins with two two-hour classroom sessions at SUNY Potsdam in the Performing Arts Center Seminar Room on Mondays, Sept. 28, and Oct. 5, from 6 to 8 p.m. Participants will learn the essentials for getting started, including what to bring, what to wear, trip planning, trail safety, navigation, the 10 Essentials, Leave No Trace principles and what to expect once they’re actually on the trail.

Then it’s time to put those new skills into practice. On Saturday, Oct. 10, participants will meet at the Goodman Mountain trailhead in Tupper Lake, N.Y., at 10 a.m. for a guided day hike of Goodman Mountain. The small-group hike gives participants the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned in a supportive, beginner-friendly setting while experiencing the Adirondacks together.

The course is led by Jess Heck, a New York State licensed outdoor guide and owner of Adirondack Ascent. She is Adirondack 46er #17,127 and a member of the New York State Outdoor Guides Association. Jess learned to hike as an adult herself, which is exactly why she loves helping beginners get started. She knows what it feels like to look at the outdoors and think, “I have no idea what I’m doing.” Her approach is practical, welcoming and focused on helping people build the skills and confidence to get outside, try something new and realize they’re more capable than they think.

Advance registration is required, and enrollment is limited to 12 participants to maintain a supportive, small-group experience in the classroom and on the trail.