The start of a new year is a great time for area seniors to set new fitness and exercise goals, and to get out and explore the outdoors. Clark County area organizations offer several unique ways for those ages 50 and older to get up, get out and explore.
50-plus Forever Young Hikers
Offered through the Luepke Center in Vancouver, the 50+ Forever Young Hikers program offers year-round adventures throughout the great Northwest, from the Columbia River Gorge to the beaches of the Pacific Ocean. This program is a great way to stay active, meet new people and have fun.
A free hike orientation is held the first Thursday of every month, noon-1 p.m., at the Luepke Center, 1009 E. McLoughlin Blvd., Vancouver. Hikes take place on Tuesdays throughout the year. If you are new to Luepke Center’s hiking programs, an orientation class is mandatory. Discussion includes what to expect, what to bring and what to wear, as well as program requirements. To reserve a spot at an orientation class, call Becky at (360) 487-7084.
All hikes are designed for hikers with experience. Participants must be able to maintain a 20-minute mile pace. Make sure to check the rating on the hike you are attending and pay attention to the distance and elevation gain. Many of these hikes are are located in distant wilderness areas.
Hikes are approximately 4-8 miles, round-trip. All hikes may include a second afternoon hike, time and weather permitting.
Hiking participants should bring hiking boots, a whistle, water bottle, walking stick and layered clothing. Skill levels of different hikes include:
• Easy – 4 miles with an elevation gain of up to 300 feet. Must be able to walk a 20-minute mile on fairly level ground with little elevation gain.
• Moderate – 4-6 miles with an elevation gain of up to 1,500 feet. May include slopes and/or steep areas.
• Difficult – 6-8 miles with an elevation gain of up to 2,500 feet or more. Involves harder climbing, rocky terrain, possible steep and/or narrow paths.
The next upcoming hike in January will be Burnt Bridge Creek on Tue., Jan. 27. Skill level is easy, hike is 6 miles with minimal elevation gain. Transportation is provided for all hikes, departure is from the Luepke Center. Pre-registration is requested two days prior to the hike start date. To register for a hike, call Becky at (360) 487-7084 or register online at https://recconnect.cityofvancouver.us/econnect/Activities/ActivitiesAdvSearch.asp.
50+ Travel Program
Another great way to meet new friends and see things you may have never seen before is through the 50+ Travel Program. If you’re age 50 or better, you could be going on affordable day trips, exploring attractions, events, festivals and culture in the Pacific Northwest. Trips are planned and escorted by trained volunteers and are offered in varying categories of difficulty.
Trip difficulty levels include:
• Easy – No stairs, minimal standing or walking.
• Moderate – Requires ability to stand or walk on uneven surfaces. For the person who can comfortably climb a flight of stairs. Must be able to walk 8-10 blocks and stand for 30 minutes. More than one stop requires getting in and out of a van.
• Difficult – Longer trip, frequent stops requiring getting on and off van. Ability for extended standing, walking and/or stairs, may not include seating. Probably includes uneven terrain and challenging tours requiring endurance.
Here are some trips planned for January:
• Thrift Shop Hop, Wed., Jan. 21, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., moderate difficulty – Shop several thrift stores in Southeast Portland for bargains and treasures you “can’t live without.” Bring money for lunch, $25/$27.
• Red Wind Casino, Thu., Jan. 22, 8 a.m.-6 p.m., moderate difficulty – Head for Red Wind Casino in Yelm for a change in routine and a day off. You will have your choice of many gaming tables and all the newest slots. Lunch can be at the deli, the buffet or the fine dining areas. Bring money for lunch. Van $37/$41.
• Mochitsuki Japanese New Year Celebration, Sun., Jan. 25, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., moderate difficulty – Join others for the 19th annual Japanese American New Year Celebration, The Year of the Sheep. There will be several dining room and food court choices featuring Japanese food, Japanese arts and crafts demonstrations and displays, tea ceremony, Sake samples and bottles for sale. Performances on three stages will include dance, Taiko drummers, folk dance, Hula and more. Bring money for lunch and $9 for senior admission. Van $27/$29.
All trips depart and return to Luepke Center, 1009 E. McLoughlin Blvd., Vancouver. Trips leave promptly at advertised times. To register for a trip, call (360) 487-7100. If registering for a trip and using a wheelchair, motorized scooter, walker, service animal, caregiver, other assistive device or are in need of special assistance, contact Inclusion Services at (360) 487-7060. An accommodation request must be made 10 business days before the trip start date.
For more information on the 50+ Forever Young Hikers program, visit http://www.cityofvancouver.us/messenger/page/50-forever-young-hikers. For more information on the 50+ Travel Program, visit http://www.cityofvancouver.us/messenger/page/50-plus-travel-program.
