The Who-What-When-Where!

The staff geologist will guide registered Friends of the Owyhee along these hiking routes. It should be noted that these are not trails but are exploratory "social trails" some of which we hope to someday see as on-the-ground trails. The hikes will launch from two main 'trailheads', but the group will always meet first at the Owyhee River Watchable Wildlife Area along Owyhee Lake Rd. (43.737056, -117.183647) to introduce the day (see picture below).

Prepare! Please come with adequate water, apparel, and foot ware. It is hot, terrain is steep at times, cheat grass and other noxious plants are abundant, but the fresh air, beautiful scenery, and enjoyable exercise are constant rewards. Please see the list below for recommendations:

• A light backpack to carry supplies
• Two or more liters of water
• Appropriate clothing for conditions
• Sun protection, such as sun hats, bandanas, and SPF sun screen
• Closed-toe shoes; tennis shoes are fine but become full of grass seed, so a type of boot is recommended
• A light snack or lunch for caloric intake
• You should carry your regular prescriptions (such as an EpiPen or migraine medicine)
• Camera, tracking device, notebook, hand lens or any other tools (optional)

The routes are graded from Easy (green) to Strenuous (red) on the accompanying map. The hikes are oriented to the novice but interested hiker. Maybe you are brand new to hiking or maybe you have decades of backpacking experience; all are welcome, though the experience is aimed at inspiring and encouraging new hikers!

You may also request a guided hike for your group in this area, though these experiences are limited. Please email sammyc@owyheefriends.org.

Each hike begins with a general introduction. We will:

• stand in a circle to exchange names
• you must sign waiver form to join the hike
• conduct a Land Acknowledgement ceremony
• the hike leader will show a map of where we area going, discuss Leave-No-Trace Practices, describe the terrain and conditions with safety tips, and describe some of the Natural History of the location
• this is a time to ask questions, either about personal safety, do's / don't, or your let the leader know your interests (plants, geology, human history, etc.) and what you hope to discuss on the hike
• we may drive to the Snively Trailhead or depart from here, but either way we will lead a short stretching session before hiking
• ***you may opt out of any of these activities, but please be mindful of our practices

The route is a considered strenuous, with steep slopes and a few rock scrambles at the top. The hike should take approximately 3-4 hours, but that may depend on group pace and natural history discussion.

The Route features a planned route along animal trails, views of the canyon and Pinnacle Point, hiking on a boulder-landslide, up-close sedimentary formations, and a historic rock stack over 2 meter tall.

FAQs:

What does the hike leader / FOTO provide?

The group leader provides two things: 1) natural history lessons and 2) geographic guidance. The leader is not responsible for your health and safety, you are. We will do our best to be flexible with the comfort level of the group, but ultimately you must know your level of ability. Though we have training in Wilderness First Aid, we rely on you to keep the group out of an emergency situation. The transportation, hiking equipment, and sustenance is all self-supported.

Can I bring other people?

Yes, but they must also register. The group size is limited to 10 (hike leader included) and anyone that had not registered by 8am must be turned away. We are following strict guidance to take the most safe precautions with the rise of coronavirus.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, but please be mindful of other peoples level of comfort with your animal. An additional waiver may be required. Not all people like pets on the trail or in the wilderness, especially when they are loud, obnoxiously close, ill-tempered and aggressive toward people or other dogs, or chase wild animals. We are understanding that these are dog behaviors and we are happy to support your joy with your pet, but the limit is when the pet becomes a problem to other participants.* Make sure to bring water and maybe a snack for them too! :)

Can I bring my child?

Yes, but only children over 7 who are appropriately practiced in hiking or outdoors time, particularly those interested in natural sciences. Parents must also purchase a ticket for them (group size limited) and an additional waiver may be required. We would like to remain encouraging to families to experience nature together, but these hikes may be too intense for a child that is not well prepared or has a very positive attitude about the hike**. You are responsible for your child, and some people may be along for the hike as a retiree, may not have or want children, or may be parent trying to experience their independence from their child/children. Please be aware and attentive of your parenting. Make sure to bring water and maybe a snack for them too! :) The best result for those with children is to come as an adult, but to return with your kids after you have "learned the ropes". Your children will probably also like the experience more of being with you, rather than a group of strangers!

What about snakes, or other dangerous things?

As a group, we will do our best to avoid any life threatening situations. Rattlesnakes are common in the Owyhee, but hardly every cause problems to humans unless the human instigates. It is important to remain vigilant and attentive, when a snake is sited to move on. We do not carry a snake bite kit on these day-hike excursions.