Types of Hikers
We all have that crew with whom we share adventures, incidents, and mishaps at high altitudes. The composition of our team is more or less always the same, so each participant has their ‘role’. We tried to describe the composition of a hiking team. Regardless of how different they are, one thing is common to all types: love for the mountains.
Leader
The leader of the ascent/tour/excursion is usually the organizer of the whole story. They lead the group, determine the direction of movement, maintain the pace, and also interact with locals. They are the first to react in crisis situations. With such individuals, we feel safe, entrust them with key decisions, and simply trust them.
The Funny Member
This person is responsible for the overall atmosphere. They know what to say and how to make us laugh even in the worst situations, even when crossing dangerous cliffs or struggling to catch our breath due to a steep ascent. Everything is easier and more enjoyable when we have someone like this in the team.
Photographer
Without photographers, we wouldn’t bother to claim that we went on a tour because we wouldn’t have evidence! Hiking photographers are a treasure because, thanks to them, we can enjoy the beauty of nature even after the tour is over, and the memories stay with us for a lifetime. You can recognize them as they are usually separated from the others, lag behind the team, often run to catch everything in their lens, and occasionally stumble.
The “Why Did I Sign Up for This?” Person
“How much longer? – When is the break? – Is it over? – Never again!” There’s no need to describe anything further; we’ll just mention that it’s interesting that, despite complaining throughout the entire tour, they will inevitably show up on the next one!
Selfie Expert
Selfie experts have a mission: the perfect selfie with mountains in the background. Their goal is to find their best angle while showcasing the natural beauty behind them.
The Runner
If someone finds fault on the tour, it will almost always be the runner who claims we’re slow and don’t need a break. These types never tire, are never satisfied, and simply never rest. Their energy and fitness levels are unmatched!
The Gentle One
This type only comes in the female version. They are lovely ladies who appear fragile and delicate, everyone takes care of them, but they easily conquer altitudes over 2000 meters! You will never see them tired, sweaty, with a ruined hairstyle, or without a smile!
The “Prepared for Everything” Person
Everyone loves them! They are the ones in the team who bring even what you would never think of. They have everything in their backpack: first aid, food, clothing, tools, and everything else you can’t remember.
Minimalist
Totally opposite to the previous type. They carry only what is necessary and will surely be needed. Luckily, they don’t hike alone!
The Loner
Their peace is the most important to them. These hikers don’t like much communication during the tour, usually sit apart from the others during breaks, and enjoy nature and silence more than anything else.
The Inquirer
The person who wants to know everything: which peaks we see in the distance, how this peak got its name, when this mountain was formed, composition of the terrain’s flora and fauna… Without them, we would learn very little during the tour because we wouldn’t remember to ask!
Flower Child
Flower children are those hikers who always wear invisible pink glasses. Everything is so wonderful and beautiful to them; they admire the grass, flower, cloud, inhale love, exhale unrest, fill themselves with positive energy, but completely freak out if you accidentally throw away a piece of paper!
Unbelievably Nice Type
Hiking with such individuals is the most enjoyable. They are gentle, kind, smiling, always ready to help. They’ll give you a hand, carry your bag, wait for you, encourage and motivate you. Don’t misinterpret their kindness.
Can you recognize them in your team? Did we forget anyone?