The trails to Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp are famous for thousands of stone steps. Going down them, a pair of poles can save your knees.
Quick answer: Poles are not essential, but we recommend them, especially for descents, river crossings and snow, and for anyone with knee problems. Use two poles, not one. Light telescopic or folding poles can be bought or rented cheaply in Thamel.
Why use poles
- They spread load from the legs to the arms on long descents.
- They add balance on loose rock, ice and stream crossings.
- They help you keep a steady rhythm on long climbs.
Adjusting them
- Flat ground: elbow at about 90 degrees.
- Uphill: shorten by 5–10 cm.
- Downhill: lengthen by 5–10 cm so you don't lean forward.
Put your hand up through the strap and grip over it, so the strap takes some of the weight.
On steps
On descents, plant both poles on the step below before you step down. Take short steps and keep your knees slightly bent.
Folding or telescopic?
Telescopic poles adjust easily for slopes. Folding (Z-type) poles pack smaller for flights. Lever locks are easier than twist locks with cold hands.
Travelling with poles
Pack poles in checked luggage: they are usually not allowed in cabin bags.
See also how fit do you need to be? and trekking over 60.