Scrambling is a type of hiking that involves going up steep, rough terrain.  At times, hands are needed and more care is required.    KHC has adopted and slightly modified an accepted system – the Yosemite Classification System:

• Class 1- walking on trails with a low chance of injury; hiking boots a good idea.
• Class 2: simple scrambling, with the possibility of occasional use of the hands.   Little potential danger is encountered.   Hiking Boots highly recommended.
• Class 2.5 – Simple scrambling with the occasional more difficult section and mild exposure.
• Class 3: Scrambling with increased exposure. Handholds are necessary.   A rope should be available for learning climbers, or if you just choose to use one that day, but is usually not required. Falls in the wrong place could be serious or even fatal.

Notes:

KHC mostly offers Class 1 and Class 2 events, but some Class 2.5 is also offered by experienced volunteer Hike Leaders    If a Class 3 section is planned, Hike Leaders are expected to inform potential members within the event listing, to directly communicate the risks and expectations with participants, and to take all the necessary steps for safety.  Hike leaders are volunteers, not trained climbing instructors so anyone who participates in scrambling does so at their own risk.   Any participant can refuse to do a section that they find intimidating or unsafe.   Each of us is responsible for our own safety.

Please read the last two sentences again. It doesn’t just refer to level 3 scramble (which will not be planned for) but applies to all hiking/scrambling advantures.

In May, every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday will have a scramble in the Dewdrop range. The tentative plan is to repeat the better weekday scramble on Saturday.

Last year, Paul, Ray, Ernie and I spent many enjoyable scrambles and at no time were ropes considered. The pace is slow and easy. The climb can be steep and exposed. Almost all scrambles are off trail.

If the hike is booked and you have had scrambling experience please call me.