“There will always be trails to follow, mountains to climb, and valleys to explore. Eighteen years ago, I began attending the monthly meetings of TWHC whose members simply love being in the out of doors. It is a very diverse group of people who pursue a wide variety of occupations and other interests; yet the common need finds us planning with real anticipation the day hikes, once-a-month weekend campouts, and the really big trips.
We look forward to weekends in a tent, cooking on a small stove or over the open fire, and adjusting to whatever the weather might be. We form groups, hike the trails, eat our meals together, and have long story times around the campfire before crawling into a sleeping bag, then drive home to be at work on Monday morning.
During my eighteen years of membership, I have had the fun of being in twenty Texas state parks, traveled to Yellowstone National Park participating in two backpacking trips, visited Glacier National Park, Banff, and Waterton in Canada, traveled twice to Arkansas, and hiked in Big Bend National Park. The past four years I have been hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park plus past family trips to the Trappers Lake area in Colorado.
Other trips by members include England and traveling by canal boats, Peru, Grand Canyon, touring in France, and Copper Canyon in Mexico. Being a friend to those in the club has been a pleasure and a privilege.”
– Barbara E.
“I am not sure when I joined the Woodlands Hiking Club; it has been at least 10 years ago. I was reading the local newspaper when I saw an article written by the club. I read the article and then I called Sandy Feldman. We both agreed we would like to hike. Joining the club was a good way to hike and meet new friends.
The club was much smaller when we joined. We went on several weekend hikes; we really enjoyed the hiking. Later, we decided to go on some of the longer trips that the club had to offer. Having the opportunity to meet new friends was really nice. Word got out about the club through articles that were written in the local newspapers.
Currently, members pass information on to their friends and families about the club. I really enjoyed meeting new friends through the club. I love hiking, and getting away is a good way to relax.”
– Sally G.
“My life in the Woodlands Hiking Club began with the first meeting in 1981. It started out as a backpacking club, so I didn’t go back until May 1982. They were planning a car camping (tents) trip to Lost Maples State Park. I signed up and traveled with Monis Smith, and we hiked in 105 degree heat. We slept out because it was too hot to sleep in a tent. I was hooked and have been in the club ever since except for the 3 years when I was in North Carolina.
I have been in the club a total of 29 years and counting. I have been to 34 state parks all over Texas with some being state natural areas, state historical sites, etc. I have been to the Tetons, Yellowstone, and the Smoky Mountains. I have tried to get a patch from each place I’ve been. I have met so many wonderful people through the years and enjoyed every minute of the outings. I was trail chairman for close to 15 years.
We have hiked, canoed, rafted, went to a rose garden, zoo, rode a train, and had many more great adventures; I’m sure I am forgetting a lot we did. I plan to re-read all the old newsletters and re-live all the great memories. I love the outdoors and camping in the woods with all the animals, birds, and flowers. I especially enjoy sitting around the campfire with great friends and conversation.
I hope to continue for a few more years and go to more places that I haven’t been to yet and meet more people.”
– Sherry T.