On my many hikes on the AT I come across a diverse bunch of wonderful people that enjoy a great pastime. But I also see some people that make me wonder... will they get into trouble on the trail? As I sat with a group of hikers at the Port Clinton Hotel over a beer I posed the question, "What would you do?" Well here is what really happened and at different times and observations - it happens all the time at the parking lots close to sunset.
What I saw was as best as I can describe, this is a mom with a three year old boy and a 4 year old girl and a chocolate Labrador about 45 minutes in from the lot at 5pm on a Sunday last week. I did not observe a pack, flashlight, no visible water, everyone was in sneakers and by my account 6:30 was sunset and civil twilight was 7pm or total darkness. Nighttime temperatures are 48° which can or may be hypothermic in fall conditions. Clearly no coats, hats or mittens on this trip, and miles from any outlook. This is at the bottom on the east side of Hawk Mountain and the sunset is in the west - so civil twilight would be like a light switch in the woods. Now the deal breaker - the mom has a thick English accent and clearly is not in GB and may not know what she may be getting into.
What would you say?
Concern?
Have a great day?
Have you considered?
Would you reach out or pass?