DAY HIKES

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Day hike typically take place in the El Paso Las Cruces area. Occasionally, we will go to Cloudcroft or Ruidoso. If the hike is planned for a day with expected high temperatures, the hike will start early in the day. If low temperatures are expected, the hike may start as late as 1 PM. Check the event calendar for dates and times.

Each day hike will consist of one recovery meeting and one short sessions of prayer/meditation. After the hike, some will go to a restaurant for a meal.

Here are answers to general questions about day hikes. Please refer to the details of each trip for more specific information.

How much will it cost?

The only cost for the hike may be the park entry fee. You might also bring money in case participants want to have a meal after the hike.

What do I need to bring?

Click here to download a checklist of required and suggested items. 

Who can go on these trips?

Our desire is for every trip to be a safe and sober environment for all who participate. Generally, day hikes are open to men and women who are at least 19 years and old and are active members of any of the 12 Step anonymous programs, such as AA, NA, SA, and Celebrate Recovery. Please refer to the trip details to learn if there are any other limitations.  

How physically fit do I need to be to go on a day hike?

It is important to note that all day hikes are physically demanding and require some degree of physical strength and endurance. With that said, the answer depends on the trip. Trips rated as easy to moderate are usually shorter and less strenuous. Trips rated as moderate to hard are usually longer and more physically challenging. If you have any physical limitation or conditions, or any concerns, please contact the organizer for guidance. Each participant is required to complete a registration form and waiver releasing Step 11 Adventures of any liability. 

Please explain the trip ratings.

Trips are rated as either Easy to Moderate, or Moderate to Hard.  

Easy to Moderate trips can be shorter, less incline, or less technical than the Moderate to Hard day trips. Between 3 to 5 miles.

Moderate to Hard trips are longer, more incline and the terrain is usually more challenging. More than 5 miles.

Please refer to the trip details for the trip rating, distances and other specifics. 

What kind of equipment/gear to I need?

The organizer has created a list of required and recommended items to bring that is based on the specific type of trip. Please refer to the event details to download the list.  

Do I need hiking boots?  

This largely depends on your preference and physical condition. If you have extremely weak ankles, or sensitive feet, you may consider using hiking boots. With that said, hiking boots are not needed for day hikes. In fact, many avid hikers use trail shoes or running shoes.  

What kind of food and fluids should I bring?

On day hikes, participants are responsible for bringing adequate food and fluids for the hike. The hike rating and the expected climate for specific day hikes should be considered when planning food and fluid.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the event organizer.

What clothes should I bring?

Cold weather trips and warm weather trips will require different clothes. With that said, the best clothes to bring on a day hike are quick drying and can be layered to address the changing temperatures.

Do I need to belong to the Christian faith to go on a trip?

No. The step 11 work, such as prayer and meditation, will be led from the Christian perspective. However, all faith beliefs are welcome.  

Is it possible to encounter wildlife?

Yes, it is possible to encounter wildlife, such as snakes, bears, deer, elk, porcupine, rabbits, squirrels, and mountain lion. Although precaution will be taken to prevent risky encounters, your participation is at your own risk. Please refer to the liability waiver for more information.