Joe's Hike

Q&A With Joe Christianson

Photos by Mark Garcia

Some might think hiking should be relegated to a one-time trip or an occasional experience. But those who go on regular hiking adventures will tell you: there’s more to it than a physical journey or a breathtaking sunset.

The true power of the trail lies in the life lessons learned when you disconnect from technology, clear your head, and connect with yourself.

Lifestyle: Please share about Paradise Creek and why you like adventuring on this trail.

Joe: The trail offers a beautiful introduction to the Foothills section of Sequoia National Park, with stunning views of the dramatic Castle Rocks, close looks at the powerful Kaweah River, and quiet walks along a beautiful creek that is in the process of re-growth following the KNP Complex Fires. The wildflowers were also stunning along the trail this year!

Lifestyle: What’s your favorite adventure spot and why?

Joe: In our immediate area, my favorite would have to be the Giant Forest. The Giant Forest is truly unparalleled in both beauty and great size of its characteristic Sequoia trees. The Grove is strewn with meadows, a rarity in Sequoia groves, and these afford hikers amazing views of the entire heights of the huge trees. Each time I drive through the Forest, I have the same awestruck expression on my face as I witness the great trees in their cinnamon-hued beauty. Being in that Grove around sunset is absolutely sublime as the Sequoia trunks glow in the deepening sunlight.

Lifestyle: What is the longest hiking adventure you’ve been on?

Joe: As far as individual hikes in one “day” go, the longest by far was hiking to Precipice Lake in Sequoia National Park. That was 43 miles out-and-back as a day hike (well, 25 hours), with no camping. I felt like my feet were gonna fall off in the last three miles.

Lifestyle: How long have you been hiking and what inspired you to start?

Joe: I’ve been hiking since high school, but began in earnest once I was closer to the national parks. I’ve always wanted to explore the national parks more thoroughly, and hiking is the best method to appreciate the parks’ wonders. I was inspired to start hiking as my interest in geology, insects, and botany grew—I wanted to see more of what I read about in books in the real world.

Lifestyle: Do you hike year round or seasonally?

Joe:I hike year round! Spring brings hikes at lower elevations and in coastal areas, while I slowly move uphill as the summer progresses. By late summer, I’m hiking in the high elevations of Sequoia National Park and the Eastern Sierra.

Lifestyle: What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?

Joe: I was never an athlete growing up and dealt with exercise-induced asthma that prevented me from doing most serious physical activity. Being able to hike for 20, 30, or 40 miles is not something I expected to have the good fortune to do, but I’m grateful I’ve been able to and want to keep going as long as I can.

Lifestyle: Can you share any mental challenges and how you overcame them while on a hike?

Joe: The most common challenge is the mental endurance required when you know that there are miles left to go on a hike, especially when you are nearing, say, a high peak at great elevation. The last three miles of the return from the Precipice Lake hike were a major challenge, with seemingly every boulder appearing to be the final landmark before reaching the parking lot, to no avail. The thrill of being able to experience world-class spots in our backyard outweighs any mental challenge or misery, and it’s something that I keep in the back of my mind to safely compete with the toll of physical challenges.

JOE'S TIPS:

1. Always be mindful of your footing and surroundings when close to rivers and waterways, especially in wet years like this past one. Our local rivers in Sequoia and Kings are amazingly but fearsomely powerful.

2. Carry a headlamp or flashlight in case your hike goes longer than expected.

3. Let other people know where you are going before you begin a hike.

4. Time your hikes for the early morning or early evening hours if you’re looking for the best photography light.

5. Sturdy, quality waterproof hiking boots are a game-changer on the trail, as are moisture-wicking socks.

6. Afternoons in the Sierra often bring thunderstorms at high altitudes. Time your hikes for the first part of the day, if possible.