Go take a hikeGo take a hikeMay 2, 2003
Now that spring is here it is time to get outdoors and go out looking for some fun in the sun. For those looking for something to do, why not follow Allen Tatomer's example and spend some time hiking?
Tatomer is part of the Diablo Trekkers, an East County group of residents who enjoy hiking. Now don't shy away, Tatomer said that you don't have to be an avid hiker to participate in this program. Novices are welcome. The idea is to go out and see what the East Bay Regional Parks have to offer.
Tatomer said that an example of a hike with the Diablo Trekkers would be like their Singles Gourmet Hike in Round Valley. They took a morning hike and then stopped for a gourmet lunch and then hiked back down. It was a picnic-style lunch where everyone brought something to share. They have these types of trips throughout the summer.
The Singles Gourmet Hike was open to adult singles only, but the group also runs quite a few hikes for families, as well. They also host overnight hikes like the one they are hosting in Yosemite this weekend which is planned to be an overnighter at Curry Village.
Usually a hike will consist of 30 people in a group and each will walk at his or her own pace, according to Tatomer. Most of the walks are leisurely. While they are not bird-watching or nature-hunting walks, the hikes will give people some great views of nature, and people do stop on occasion to check out the sights. He recommends that people bring binoculars if they want to check out the wildlife.
The hikes are generally two-and-a-half to four miles long. Tatomer said that all that is required is comfortable walking shoes. Running shoes or hiking boots will do. He also said that it is important to bring lots of water.
"So many times people just bring one small bottle and they need a lot more than that for a walk this long," Tatomer said.
Hikers are asked to meet at the trailhead before each hike. A hiker's schedule can be obtained by calling Tatomer at his daytime number at 925-439-0434.
For the most part the hikes usually are free. The only costs are for entrance and parking fees, unless the walk is part of another organized group.
The group's big event this year is to Ruby Mountain, which is scheduled for June 7-15. Participants are welcome to stay for part of the trip or all of it. In this case, ride-share programs are being put together, according to Tatomer.
This hike will include special campfire entertainment by up-and-coming local area cowgirl poet and humorist Merrily Wright, and acoustic folk and blues musician Jay Ericson and Friends. They will also be doing things like having nightly campfire humor contests and progressively challenging acclimating day hikes to various high mountain trails.
The fee for the trip, which will be $70 and will cover costs for camping and a few of the meals, must be submitted to the group by May 15. This will be the third annual trip to the Ruby Mountains.
Tatomer got involved in the Diablo Trekkers because he was an avid hiking enthusiast and wanted to share his hikes with other people. The group started out small and has been growing considerably over the past few years. For day hikes, e-mail Tatomer at a.tatomer@attbi.com for a calendar.
Roni Gehlke's column on life in Oakley appears each week in the Brentwood News.
Distributed by the Contra Costa Times