HikeArizona.COM

I am newbie as far as hiking goes and am also a type 1 diabetic. I was wondering if anyone else in this group is diabetic and how they deal with the longer hikes. My limit now seems to be 3 hours. Also, I like to hike the trail that starts at the corner of thompson peak and bell road, and was wondering if anyone has hiked this and how far the trail goes. Currently I have only made it about a 1/4 mile past the three mine shafts. jb

Hi mriguy66 welcome aboard!

If you are refering to the dixie mine, then that trail should join up with the utility road that actually summits thompson peak. ( closed to the public )

For more info on that area, see this place:
http://www.fountainhillsguide.com/rec_h ... _thom.html

I'm also a Type 1. The longest hike we've done is 5 hours (7.0 miles, up hill 3.5 and back 3.5) because we're just day-hikers and I'm a late riser ;). We've also done the Peralta/Cave Trail loop in 5 hours (over 7.0 miles). The Cave Trail is rated "Difficult" in the Hiker's Guide to the Superstition Wilderness.

My endurance has nothing to do with being diabetic, it has to do with being in shape (or not as the case may be).

You didn't say why your limit is 3 hours. Is it because your blood sugar drops too low at that point? You're just starting out and not in shape?

Bill

I have had Type 2 for five years now. One I was first informed, I spent time at a track with my test kit to determine my needs (carb snacks etc.) and capabilities. I still use my test kit several times a day, no matter where I am at or doing. Just as I determine tracks on the ground or what flora and fauna I may observe on an outdoor excursion (natural science studies), I incorporate testing of my blood glucose levels (bio-medical studies) and incorporate them in my outdoor excurscions.

I am Type II Diabetic and am both a hiker and a long distance runner. The key for me is knowing what my blood suger is at all times and how much carbohydrates I need when doing long runs or hikes. I would always be sure to keep carbohydrate gels, fruit, nutrition bars and water with you at all times. A cell phone and directions on what to do if you get ill don't hurt either. My advice is to slowly get yourself into shape and experiment with different foods that affect your blood sugers....

i think the trail you are talkin about dead ends after while, but if you take a lower trail i believe it joins with a wash that goes all the way to the ridge between McDowell Peak and Thompson peak, someone correct me if im way off