How to Use a Hiking Stick
Learn how to use your hiking stick effectively for an easier, more pleasant walk through the woods.
Up next in Hiking Equipment & Tips (14 videos)
Take a hike! But don't go before checking out the hiking equipment advice and hiking tips in this Howcast video series.
You Will Need
- Down-slopes and up-slopes
- Stream
- Tarp
- Snakes
- Dogs
- Rocks (optional)
Steps
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Step 1
Brake your descent
Use the hiking stick to brake your descent on steep down-slopes. Alternately, use it to push yourself onward on an up-slope. Balance on uneasy ground by allowing the hiking stick to help bear your weight.
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Step 2
Ford a stream
Maintain your balance as you ford a stream by leaning on the hiking stick, which serves as a stabilizing third leg as you make your way through the water.
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Wedge the stick between rocks to get more support.
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Step 3
Pitch a tarp
Use the stick to pitch a tarp. Place the stick in the center of the tarp, and then secure the corners of the tarp by ropes to trees.
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Step 4
Scare away dogs
Scare away menacing dogs. Just the sight of the stick can be enough to send a growling dog off with its tail between its legs. With your trusty walking stick at your side, get out there and enjoy your hike!
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Hiking sticks are frequently constructed from air-dried tree saplings rather than kiln-dried wood.
