Frequently Asked Questions for the Hiker Challenge
1. When are the hikes? The hikes begin on Saturday morning and end on Sunday afternoon, usually before 5 p.m. This will enable you to be home before it to late on Sunday evening. In even years we hike north to south. Odd years we hike South to North.
2. What are we doing on Friday night? Friday nights are optional. Because most shuttle will depart at dawn on Saturday in order for you to be on the Trace by 7:30, we encourage those participants who live more than 2 hours away, drive in on Friday night and stay at a local hotel or campground we recommend. There may be additional cost per person for camping on Friday night depending on the site. This fee will be noted in the monthly registration.
3. What does it cost? The monthly cost average is $40.00. The fee paid covers, the shuttle, the cost of hosting the Challenge, insurance, and staff cost.
4. Can I switch between teams? Yes. Each team will be hiking the same distance each month so switching is not a problem.
5. Where will we camp? Each Saturday night, the teams will camp at prearranged sites that the STA has been using for the past few years. We ask everyone to camp as a group so we might limit the impact on the Forest.
6. Can I hike ahead? Yes, if you have some time and want to get a head or make up a section you missed we ask you let the Challenge Director know your plans.
7. How much should my pack and gear weigh to be successful? We recommend you take a solid hard look at your pack weight. The lower your pack weight, the better the chance you will get to the end of the Challenge in November. Remember, you are out for basically one night and two days. Most participants over pack food, water and clothing. The pre-hike briefing can help you with gear and food selections. Tip: Try a cold meal plan. Subway works great for lunch and supper on Saturday.
8. Can I bring a friend or family member for one or two sections? Yes. One time hikers are welcome as long as they register, pay the fee, and sign the same documents you sign. Talk with the Challenge Director for more info.
9. What about pets? Dogs are welcome on the Trace. All we ask is that in camp you keep your pet under control, carry a leash on the trail so your pet can be restrained if you come upon another hiker/group. In the Big South Fork, pets are required to be on lease.
10. What do I do if I am directionally confused? What if I can't make it to camp on Saturday night? The Challenge Director will make sure there is an experienced "end-2-ender" or two on the section with you. One will be placed in the front or middle and the other in the rear as a "Sweeper". The thing to remember first and foremost is, if you are unsure about directions, stop and wait for the staff to catch up or discuss with another backpacker who has their map. At no time should you guess the right way. If you are not 100% sure of where the Trace is going, STOP! At camp on Saturday evening, the Challenge staff will take a verbal or mental roll call to make sure everyone has made it to camp. If you are not there, the staff may come looking for you. If there is cell service and you are not going to make camp, stop, set up your shelter, send a text that you are ok. If no cell service and you are done for the day, stop, make camp, get something to eat, get some rest. Staff will not leave the end point until all participants have checked in.
11. Where is a good place to buy maps and guides? The STA sells the maps sets and guidebooks you will need. There are two map sets the North, South, map sets. The set sells for $35.00 which includes postage. Individually the North Map is $15.00 and the South Map $18.00. These are professionally done maps. The Trail Guide is a mile by mile description of the Trace and paired with the maps provide you with an abundance of information on the route. You can purchase Map Sets, the Guide and other unique merchandist by visiting the online store - STA Trading Post. Click the link below to make your purchase through our Square account. If you to prefer to pay by check, make your payment out to STA and send to the office in the Livingston Center. Please allow 7 days for delivery.
12. What if I get injured? In the past 5 years we have had no serious injuries on the Trace during the Challenge. So the chances are marginal but anything can happen on a trail. If you fall, feel you are injured and can't go on, make camp. First get warm, start a fire and wait for the Challenge Staff to come upon you. They will access the situation and either go on for help, call for help or send someone to camp for help. You must be prepared at all times to make camp and ride out an injury or being lost. If your injury is so severe you can't go on, attempt to dial 911 or the Search and Rescue number provided on the card given to you at Orientation.
13. What if I get lost? The Challenge is not a lead hike. While there will be STA staff on each hike, this is an individual hike where you hike your own pace. We strongly suggest that you hike with A FRIEND OR MAKE FRIENDS WITH SOMEONE ON THE HIKE THAT GOES AT YOUR PACE. If you become lost, stop, DON'T PANIC! Look around and attempt to retrace your steps. If you are confused, attempt to text the STA Staff. If the sweeper (the last STA person at the end of the hike each month) gets to camp and you are not there. The Staff will organize a search party to come back and locate you. If it is dark or getting dark, start a fire, be prepared to spend the night. If you are injured, dial 911 and or call the Search and Rescue number on the card provided at orientation. The STA will not leave you out there. WE WILL COME FIND YOU.
2. What are we doing on Friday night? Friday nights are optional. Because most shuttle will depart at dawn on Saturday in order for you to be on the Trace by 7:30, we encourage those participants who live more than 2 hours away, drive in on Friday night and stay at a local hotel or campground we recommend. There may be additional cost per person for camping on Friday night depending on the site. This fee will be noted in the monthly registration.
3. What does it cost? The monthly cost average is $40.00. The fee paid covers, the shuttle, the cost of hosting the Challenge, insurance, and staff cost.
4. Can I switch between teams? Yes. Each team will be hiking the same distance each month so switching is not a problem.
5. Where will we camp? Each Saturday night, the teams will camp at prearranged sites that the STA has been using for the past few years. We ask everyone to camp as a group so we might limit the impact on the Forest.
6. Can I hike ahead? Yes, if you have some time and want to get a head or make up a section you missed we ask you let the Challenge Director know your plans.
7. How much should my pack and gear weigh to be successful? We recommend you take a solid hard look at your pack weight. The lower your pack weight, the better the chance you will get to the end of the Challenge in November. Remember, you are out for basically one night and two days. Most participants over pack food, water and clothing. The pre-hike briefing can help you with gear and food selections. Tip: Try a cold meal plan. Subway works great for lunch and supper on Saturday.
8. Can I bring a friend or family member for one or two sections? Yes. One time hikers are welcome as long as they register, pay the fee, and sign the same documents you sign. Talk with the Challenge Director for more info.
9. What about pets? Dogs are welcome on the Trace. All we ask is that in camp you keep your pet under control, carry a leash on the trail so your pet can be restrained if you come upon another hiker/group. In the Big South Fork, pets are required to be on lease.
10. What do I do if I am directionally confused? What if I can't make it to camp on Saturday night? The Challenge Director will make sure there is an experienced "end-2-ender" or two on the section with you. One will be placed in the front or middle and the other in the rear as a "Sweeper". The thing to remember first and foremost is, if you are unsure about directions, stop and wait for the staff to catch up or discuss with another backpacker who has their map. At no time should you guess the right way. If you are not 100% sure of where the Trace is going, STOP! At camp on Saturday evening, the Challenge staff will take a verbal or mental roll call to make sure everyone has made it to camp. If you are not there, the staff may come looking for you. If there is cell service and you are not going to make camp, stop, set up your shelter, send a text that you are ok. If no cell service and you are done for the day, stop, make camp, get something to eat, get some rest. Staff will not leave the end point until all participants have checked in.
11. Where is a good place to buy maps and guides? The STA sells the maps sets and guidebooks you will need. There are two map sets the North, South, map sets. The set sells for $35.00 which includes postage. Individually the North Map is $15.00 and the South Map $18.00. These are professionally done maps. The Trail Guide is a mile by mile description of the Trace and paired with the maps provide you with an abundance of information on the route. You can purchase Map Sets, the Guide and other unique merchandist by visiting the online store - STA Trading Post. Click the link below to make your purchase through our Square account. If you to prefer to pay by check, make your payment out to STA and send to the office in the Livingston Center. Please allow 7 days for delivery.
12. What if I get injured? In the past 5 years we have had no serious injuries on the Trace during the Challenge. So the chances are marginal but anything can happen on a trail. If you fall, feel you are injured and can't go on, make camp. First get warm, start a fire and wait for the Challenge Staff to come upon you. They will access the situation and either go on for help, call for help or send someone to camp for help. You must be prepared at all times to make camp and ride out an injury or being lost. If your injury is so severe you can't go on, attempt to dial 911 or the Search and Rescue number provided on the card given to you at Orientation.
13. What if I get lost? The Challenge is not a lead hike. While there will be STA staff on each hike, this is an individual hike where you hike your own pace. We strongly suggest that you hike with A FRIEND OR MAKE FRIENDS WITH SOMEONE ON THE HIKE THAT GOES AT YOUR PACE. If you become lost, stop, DON'T PANIC! Look around and attempt to retrace your steps. If you are confused, attempt to text the STA Staff. If the sweeper (the last STA person at the end of the hike each month) gets to camp and you are not there. The Staff will organize a search party to come back and locate you. If it is dark or getting dark, start a fire, be prepared to spend the night. If you are injured, dial 911 and or call the Search and Rescue number on the card provided at orientation. The STA will not leave you out there. WE WILL COME FIND YOU.
