Alpenstocks

An alpenstock is the German word for a long wooden walking staff - usually six to ten feet in length, and tipped on one end with an iron spike. Though it’s not exactly clear as to when this multi-functional tool was first used, we do know that alpenstocks were used by shepherds and hunters while travelling across snowfields and glaciers in the Alps during the Middle Ages. In fact, travel across the Swiss Alps was so common by the mid-to-late 1500s that Josias Simler wrote a book about the topic in 1574. In one of the chapters, “Concerning the Difficulties of Alpine Travel and the Means by which they may be Overcome,” Simler provided practical advice for travelers wishing to cross the highlands. In this section, he described the use of alpenstocks to help with balance and support on steep slopes and icy terrain. By the late 18th century, alpenstocks had become standard equipment for early mountaineers during excursions in the Alps and other mountainous regions.

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Virtually no one went hiking before the 19th century. What occurred that inspired ordinary people to take a walk through the woods for pleasure? Ramble On: A History of Hiking explores the rich history of hiking, and how it evolved into one of the most popular pastimes in the world.