Mat-Su Hikers growing, getting after the trails weekly

WASILLA — Whether you’re wanting to just get out for a leisurely hike, or you’re up for a more strenuous venture, residents of the Mat-Su and Anchorage can find anywhere from a hiking buddy to a group.

Palmer resident Joe Sylvia, a hiking enthusiast with almost two decades of fire rescue along with search and rescue experience, said he started a closed Facebook page called the Mat-Su Hikers in April, 2015.

“I started watching social media for a hiking group,” said Sylvia. “No one had started one so I did to see what happens. It was 10 of my friends…pretty slow going.”

Since then, membership has swelled to about 2,300. Being a closed group, one must apply for access to the page.

“The purpose is to get people outdoors and active. You don’t have to be (athletically inclined) to get out and enjoy,” said Sylvia. Sylvia posted on the Facebook page “…I can see organizing (micro group hikes)-- slow and low for those that would like to get out but may be not in shape...yet, for a strenuous “up” hike…”

Sylvia said specialized treks for bird watchers; wilderness safety, children friendly, and dog friendly outings are also fair game. He encourages members to make suggestions on what they would like to do or where they might enjoy venturing around the Mat-Su.

Sylvia said his first 100 requests came from predominantly women. Sylvia said he and the page’s co-administrator review every profile from those seeking membership. Members are also allowed to post planned hikes or suggest one.

“There were a lot of moms who wanted to get out but were afraid to hike alone,” Sylvia said. “I spent time showing them the ‘do’s’ and ‘don’t of hiking. It started growing 20-30 people at a time. I get steady five-a-day (member) requests.”

Sylvia said one thing he enjoys focusing on is educating hiking enthusiasts. On a recent outing, Sylvia said about 20 group members attended a hike-discussion where he talked about topics such as safety, what to bring on the hike and different types of hikes. He also encourages members posting pictures of their outings.

People looking for, or selling hiking-related gear may post to the page. Posts relating to hiking such as planned yoga classes are also permitted. Sylvia said there are always questions.

“I had one post from one woman. She said one of her children was sensitive to sunlight and wanted to know where a good, shaded trail could be found,” Sylvia said. “People can post (general) questions about hiking or things related to hiking like a lost dog (on the trail) …the question and answer stuff is what I like best.”

Sylvia said specialty Facebook groups have recently sprung up as off-shoots from the Mat-Su Hikers page. Included is the “Hike it Baby” group out of Anchorage which is dedicated to hiking parents with young children which boasts approximately 3,500 members.

Although the group is closed, membership can be easily made by request. The only caveat is you live in the Mat-Su or Anchorage proper. Sylvia said he and co-administrator Jackie Burns review each separately.

“If your profile is set in a manner I cannot tell where you're from, you will not be added,” Sylvia said. (If that’s the case), message me!

For more information on the group, enter Mat-Su Hikers in the search engine.