Joe and Sara were going to Mammoth for a few days hike and camping. First, what usually takes 4 hours to get to the top, took 7 hours. It was a long, hard climb. Partially due to being very prepared, with enough food, clothing, etc in case of emergency.
While climbing up, they passed a fellow hiker who said the weather was turning, but Joe and Sara had looked and the weather report said sunny and 30 degrees. So, they continued.
The hiker said snow and rain were coming and recommended they sleep in the valley for protection.
But Sara and Joe took a calculated risk. They preferred mountain tops and views and had hiked a long distance. They really did not want to turn back. Plus no bad weather in sight.
They were rewarded with amazing views and set camp right near the lake.
At 10:50 pm, Sara got up for a bathroom break. It was a beautiful night. Then, 45 minutes later, the wind gusts started. They barely slept through the night as the wind howled and the sleet came. But they were glad they were there.
They do like the extremes and were ok through the night, but as the sleet and snow came, they made the decision to cut their outing short and descend that morning. It was beautiful as they made their way back through the new snow and quiet.
So, what is a good risk vs and unhealthy risk? They took the risk of continuing on their climb, with the reward of amazing quiet, views, and nature. But, when do we decide what is a calculated risk vs an unhealthy one?
Joe and Sara’s 4 points to assess:
1. Analysis- Weigh the pros and cons. And have a backup plan.
2. Preparedness- Always be prepared for what goes right and what can go wrong.
3. Motivation- What’s your motivation? Is it worth the slight risk?
4. Potential outcome of taking this risk- Consider others/who it may affect. Is it a healthy risk? What could happen at worst?
In Sara and Joe’s opinion, a calculated risk is better than staying on the couch and missing out on the experience. Here’s to well-calculated adventures!
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