Trail Talk – December 2020
TRAIL TALK
An Interview with Margo Mercier
(KHC member since 2016)
As Interviewed by Lori Rilkoff
December 2020
Margo is one of many who truly fell in love with hiking after a motivating trail experience with KHC. While hiking
as an activity was not new to her, it was the support of fellow KHC members on that one inspiring hike who
motivated Margo to make it an integral part of not only her fitness regime, but of her life. As a reflection of her
appreciation, Margo now contributes back to KHC, leading hikes and acting as Treasurer for the current Board of
Directors.
LR: How did you initially hear about KHC?
MM: I’ve found out about KHC while searching online for dif erent places to hike in the area. I was immediately
interested in joining but every time I looked, the membership was capped. It took a couple of years but I was finally
able to join in July 2016.
LR: What was your hiking experience prior to joining KHC?
MM: I have always been someone who enjoys being physically active and fit. Although I had done several hikes
prior to joining the club, I wasn’t a serious hiker.
LR: Do you recall the first hike you did with KHC that made you think “I want to be a serious hiker”?
MM: My second hike with KHC was very hard and most likely the one that got me hooked to hiking. I had signed
up for one of (hike leader) Doug Smith’s events to Trophy Mountain in August 2016. I recall wondering if I would
be able to make it to the top, pushing myself to get a little further and higher while fighting annoying horse flies
buzzing around my ears. I was grateful to fellow hikers encouraging words and to this day I remember (fellow
KHC member) Sharon Peters cheering me up, telling me I was doing fine and that I wouldn’t regret this climb.
Well, she was right, getting to the top was immensely rewarding and breathtaking.
LR: Having fellow supportive hikers with you makes a big difference in getting up those tough trails! You’re an
experienced hiker now – how else has your life changed since you began hiking with KHC?
MM: KHC has made a huge difference in my life. Not only has it helped me get in even better shape physically
and mentally, I have met great people and made very good friends. Being part of KHC has also brought me to the
most beautiful places I would never have gone to.
LR: Can you tell us about one of those beautiful places?
MM: There are places that fascinate more than others, where a glance is enough to amaze you. Mount Robson is
certainly one of those places. I loved my experience on the Berg Lake Trail. This is without a doubt one of the most
beautiful and spectacular hikes. It’s not every day that you have the opportunity to camp at the foot of a huge
glacier and admire such an exceptional panorama.
LR: What is it about hiking that appeals to you the most?
MM: For me, hiking is associated with escape, freedom, and happiness. It’s a hobby that allows me to come back
to simple things, to forget the stress, the worries and to get out of the daily routine in a life where everything has to
go faster and faster.
LR: Those are inspiring words! What would you say to a new KHC member who may be hesitant to come out for
a first hike with KHC or maybe the first hike they’ve ever done?
MM: Give it a try! Start small and choose the right trail for your fitness level. Wear the right shoes, socks, dress
in layers and leave no trace. The beautiful trails we love will only stay beautiful if we care for them. You will not
be disappointed and you will meet great, happy people that are there for the same reasons you are…the love of
nature and to share the breathtaking moments.
- Trail Talk – March 2021 - March 10, 2021
- Trail Talk – Carole and John Moslin - February 10, 2021
- Trail Talk – January, 2021 - January 9, 2021