El Paso Ridgewalkers

I use a single hiking stick. There are other hikers in our group that do use two trekking poles.

Trekking poles, and/or a hiking stick gives additional support when hiking over uneven terrain, crossing streams, and going downhill on loose rock.

Another advantage to trekking poles is the ability to adjust the length of the poles, this makes them an excellent choice for erecting a quick shelter with a tarp or poncho. There are also ultralight tents that utilize trekking poles as tent poles.