When people consider carrying narcotics on a hike, “trail beer” is typically the first thing that springs to mind. Yet, according to specialists such as Jesse Crow, manager of Halo Cannabis, it may be preferable to carry something that enhances a climb more than booze.
Crow stated, “Alcohol is a depressant and can have serious effects on coordination and ability.” “While using cannabis, I am free of these bodily restrictions and in a condition of cerebral elevation and euphoria.”
Cannabis is a well-known supplement to sedentary pursuits; yet, some individuals utilize the herb to enhance mobility and exercise. Because of the prevalence of hiking in Tucson, local dispensaries have investigated the notion of “trailblazing,” or hiking high.
Zoe Tsurusaki, manager of Botanica’s retail store, is an ardent hiker who is curious about how hiking and botany might go hand in hand. She stated that not only can the herb improve trekking, but outdoor activities and cannabis share similar qualities.
“Our favorite hiking meals and what we experience when trekking are in cannabis,” explained Tsurusaki. “It is only natural that cannabis use and outdoor activities combine. You bring the outside within.”
She described how terpenes in both the plant and the environment connect the two. Terpenes are naturally occurring chemical compounds found in plants. They are well-known for its health benefits, which include anti-inflammatory, improved blood circulation, and enhanced lung function.
Pinene and limonene are two of the most prevalent terpenes in cannabis; they are also found in pine and citrus foods. Not only is citrus a suggested food for hikers, but it also relieves tension and encourages bliss. Pine increases oxygen intake and supports heart health in general.
Both terpenes are also present in creosote, a common plant on Tucson trails with which hikers are likely to contact. In support with Tsurusaki’s claim, the addition of cannabis to a climb boosts the absorption of these chemicals.
“The ability to utilize cannabis in a manner that promotes greater health is incredible,” said Tsurusaki. “You are already receiving this activation, therefore it intensifies it.”
Cannabis and outdoor exercise have comparable physiological effects. Cannabis use activates the same neurotransmitter that produces the “runner’s high” effect when a person exercises.
In addition to the parallels, Tsurusaki and Crow asserted that cannabis products can provide hikers with a unique viewpoint on the outdoors. Crow, an experienced hiker, compared trailblazing to a familiar dish to emphasize its significance.
“Climbing a mountain is similar to adding salsa to tortilla chips. “Chips are tasty on their own, but when paired with the appropriate salsa, they reach a whole other level,” added Crow. “The same could be said of hiking. When coupled with the appropriate strain, it becomes amazing.”
Depending on what a hiker is seeking for, cannabis might contribute something additional to the path. For higher energy, Crow advised a sativa or hybrid strain. Strawberry apricot, pineapple explosion, and orange eruption, which won the Errl Cup in 2022, are a few of his go-to flavors. Tsurusaki also recommends sativas and hybrids, particularly the farm-to-table sour diesel and fruit spirit strains from Botanica.
Despite the fact that these are often offered in flower form, some hikers choose not to smoke before to exercise. Nonetheless, Tsurusaki emphasized that smoking may have certain advantages.
“I wouldn’t necessarily encourage smoking before a trek, but smoking is an excellent method to preserve energy and keep your blood circulating well,” Tsurusaki said.
She also suggested Camino chews and powders that can be blended with trail food. According to Tsurusaki, edibles can be utilized as an alternative to flower to prolong the effects of cannabis across longer distances.
According to both experts, the most essential consideration is to emphasize safety. Hikers should pack plenty of water in case they encounter a cottonmouth, be aware of their limits, and always select a path they have trekked previously. Crow encouraged hikers to test out gear before to setting foot on a trek.
“Everyone reacts differently to cannabis strains,” stated Crow. “Before deploying a new strain on the trails, I advise trying it in a less stressful environment. Always exercise discretion when ingesting and partaking in physical activity.