Hiking the Lake Geneva shore path has been a love of mine since childhood. Summers at the lake, and Wisconsin camping, are dear to my memories. After retiring from our healthcare careers, my wife and I have enjoyed trailer camping and hiking trails. After losing a large Lake Geneva hickory tree my son and I were able to build a live edge dining table from the wood. It was only a matter of time before the wood and walking were joined together and I started carving rustic hiking sticks. Using hickory or found hardwood branches, I often carve an animal on top and then carve or wood burn the shaft with nature themes. I fashion a comfortable handgrip and lanyard from paracord or leather. At least 4 coats of a durable exterior finish then protect the wood. The grain, knots, and curves of each branch or wood slab determines its destiny.
Custom sticks can be made upon request. Sticks can be shortened by the owner to fit them perfectly if necessary. I have my own favorite hiking stick "friends", and I hope that each stick I have carved, wood burned, and finished see many miles of natural beauty on the trail.
