FARMINGTON – A new hiking program organized by the local recreation department is going places.
The One Day Wanderers program launched this summer, with the Farmington Recreation Department organizing guided hikes for people that are 50 or older. Farmington Parks & Rec Department Director Matt Foster and Assistant Director Seth Noonkester, both experienced hikers trained in wilderness safety and first aid, took groups up a number of local hills and mountains.
“They kept an eye on us all, provided us with iced tea at the top and made sure not to go too fast,” participant Mary Flint said. “How lucky we are to have such a great resource.”
The trail-blazing program for mature adults came after a seasonal visitor inquired at the Rec Department if there were any group hikes scheduled.
“She had no one to go up with,” Foster said. “We thought,’why not?’ It’s a good way to connect people who are interested in hiking.”
With many of the Rec Department’s programs geared for youths, Foster and Noonkester wanted to get the more mature set involved.
“We’re a Rec Department and a community center too. The focus should be on the whole community,” Foster said.
The One Day Wanderers tackled Round Top Trail near Belgrade, Bald Mountain in Weld, Piazza Rock in Sandy River Plantation, and visited the Maine Huts and Trails’ Poplar Hut in Carrabassett Valley. The final hike took the group to Bald Mountain in Oquossoc, with an extra stop atop Quill Hill in Rangeley.
The idea of having a cup of tea at the summit of every climb was inspired by Tai Chi instructor Eddie Yuen. Every Friday Yuen leads a class at the Farmington Community Center and mentioned to Foster the tradition of having a cup of tea to celebrate each hike.
It is strongly recommended that anyone who is interested in joining in on a climb to call 778-3464 or stop by the Community Center on Middle Street to sign up. That way, Foster can contact participants in case the weather isn’t cooperating and the hike needs to be rescheduled.
Great program!
We enjoyed great hikes with likable, knowledgeable guides. The locations hiked were well chosen and all the people who participated became fast friends!
I love to see Eddie’s name now on the banner.