Frequent “sweeps” Szentirmai (left) and Davis (right) (photo by Ruth Caldwell)
Heather Davis and Maria Szentirmai
In hiking lingo, a “sweep” is the person at the end of the line of trekkers on a hike—the caboose. A sweep has the duty to stay alert and be observant. Since the leader has many things to study in order to “stay on course” and cannot see what is going on at the tail of the group, the sweep is his/her eyes and ears at the back.
Working in tandem with the leader, this person can send an alert if someone, or a group of people, is not moving at the same pace as the guide or other hikers. This is an easy adjustment to make so that everyone has a stellar experience.
Sweeps encourage drinking water at every stop. Even if you are not thirsty, drink! If he/she sees fresh water on the trail, they know that someone’s water bladder may be leaking. They stop and make sure that the person’s problem is repaired and that they have enough water for the remaining journey.
They pick up lost articles—hair ornaments, sunglasses, keys, caps, lost baskets from hiking poles, gloves, or anything dropped or slipped from a hiker’s grasp.
A good sweep will notice untied shoelaces and notify the person before a fall can occur.
When a bathroom stop is needed, they notice who is missing, and as we reconvene, we do a non-verbal head count so as not to leave anyone behind. As the hike is ready to resume, they will check to make sure that everyone is properly suited up and ready to begin again. They then give another non-verbal “thumbs up” to the guide to assure them that all is well at the rear of the pack and ready for forward motion.
Sweeps also alert the group when bicycles or runners are coming up behind us so all can clear the trail.
So, now you know that sweeps are not just pretty faces following you. They are working with the guide to ensure a great and safe experience for all. If you are asked to sweep on a hike in the future, you are now aware of what to do to help the guide keep everyone safe and happy!