The Secret Hiker

Oregon Hikes: He calls himself the "Secret Hiker." Even has a website by the same name. Who could resist trying to secure an interview? Not me, that's for sure! Secret Hiker (we'll call him SH) allowed me to interview him (by email) and ask a few questions about his passion for hiking in southern Oregon.

First, I had to ask, why the Secret Hiker moniker? SH says, "Never grew up, always loved capes...and I have no interest in my real identity becoming known. Famous enough in real life." Nuf said.

Next, I asked, "Hey love the boots, tell me more..." SH replied, "These are my comfy old Stanleys. I just call them 'my comfy old Stanleys!' They are 10 years old this spring, and the soles have thinned in places to conform to and enhance my uneven gait and they've finally developed one hole near the toe. I just glued it closed with super glue. They're about to be retired, after I squeeze one more hiking season out of 'em."

Asked the obvious, "What is your favorite southern Oregon hike?" SH laments, "NOOOOoooo you can't do this to me!!! OK, if I was told today that I could only hike one trail for the rest of my life forever, it would be...it would be...the South Fork Rogue River Trail."

His advice to out-of-state hikers? "Hikes around here offer much diversity in geography, geology, ecology, flora, fauna, and weather can change on a dime, especially in the higher country areas. So prepare yourself by checking out all available info regarding the area(s), projected weather patterns, how to prepare for the unexpected, and what to bring/not bring including do's and don'ts of trail manners."

SH continues, "You are being given a gift and a privilege; you're walking through someone else's home! Please walk with respect. Keep your trash and leave no trace of your presence. Bring your camera and leave your hurries behind! Be journey-oriented more than goal- oriented. Really 'look' at the tiny intricacies of nature, be quiet and soak up the subtle and uniquely beautiful sounds."

Secret Hiker is in the process of updating his website and he wants you to know that it is a simple site created from his desire to share what he loves so much...hiking some of southern Oregon's most unique trails.

Photo credits go to the Secret Hiker....so many trails, too little time....