We are doing a series of walks of varying degrees of difficulty over the coming months. While these are being used as training by those who have already volunteered to take part in the Ethiopia Trek this year, anyone can take part. Why not come along and join in? These are not fundraisers, just an opportunity to get out and about and enjoy some of the hills and countryside in company.

Details of some of the past walks are listed below. Please be sure to read the section detailing required basic equipment requirements for participating in any walks. If you would like to be kept informed of future walks or would like to find out more about them, send an email with your contact details to skerrieswalkers@skerriessodo.org

Walks During Autumn 2009

Basic Equipment Requirements

In order to participate in any of the hill walks, the basic requirements are:

• Walking Boots – Boots must be sturdy with proper ankle support and a rigid non-slip sole such as Vibram
• No jeans or cotton teashirts
• Waterproof jacket and pull-ups(pants) – Gore tex or breathable fabric best
• Fleece jacket (or equivalent)
• Glooves and warm/fleece hat
• Plastic liner(bag) inside rucksack (to keep contents dry)
• Food for hike( should also include extra/emergency ration) if in doubt bring too much – you get hungry on the hills
• Bivvy bag – safety bag in case one has ever to spend a night on the mountains
• Water minimum 1 and half litres
• Flask for hot drink
• First Aid: Blister treatment(although prevention through boots you are used to is best), or anything you might need etc.

It’s a matter for personal preference but a change of clothes after a walk is no harm before you go for that well earned coffee (drink) or back home.

You may wish to check if any existing insurance you may have covers you for this type of activity. If it does not, we would suggest joining the MCI as membership of that organisation includes personal insurance. For more information, take a look at the Mountaineering Ireland website.