Yes, I DO have a calendar. Just getting prepared.

I walk to work (I hope). Last year used my cane with one of those gripper attachments, and I wore YakTrax.

My balance isn't nearly as good now, and being in Vermont I tentatively expect ice and snow.

I'm thinking, two canes? Two quad canes with small bases? A walker? Do they make gripper tips for quad canes or walkers?

I really don't want to take my car; it's less than a quarter mile. Sometimes it's actually safer to walk than drive!

Any ideas?

Ski poles with a good grip system will save you a ton of money, be very lightweight, durable, and can take the abuse of winter slush and mush. A big advantage is that they will go into the surface with a good bite, not just on top of the surface.

If you want to try them, visit a used sporting goods store or ask around, I'd bet one of my ears that someone you know has a pair collecting dust. Check the strap, you want a solidly attached, preferably adjustable nylon web, and hand grips in good, solid condition. They're not pretty but highly functional.

Trekking poles are another trendy, pricey option, but for the level of use in your case, ski poles are ideal.

AMN gives good advice. We shop at used Sporting Goods Shop (ours is called Second time Around) for us & kids (their sizes and interests change all the time and stuff is usually like new but cheaper)

Not ski poles, Nordic Walking Poles, it is a set of two. They have a sharp point on the end, coverable with a rubber tip. You can get anything from relatively inexpensive to cost a lot. Check here for reviews: http://www.activemsers.org/.

Yeah, B2, Bill's right, you should definitely go spend upwards of $200 to find out if using two sticks will help you trek 1/4 mile of relatively-groomed terrain.

IMHO....either the ski poles or the trekking poles will help.

The ski poles...you could find cheap at a garage sale.
The trekking poles...

Ok...I have trekking poles...(remains of a past life)

anyhoo....I have tips I can switch out. I have some that converts them into a ski pole and the rubber tips (covering the every so sharp---poke the bear in the eye-- carbide tip).

anyhoo...with the rubber tips on...now I use them for canes.

I would walk my quarter mile to work...but by the time I get all the raingear on and it gets soaking wet, then take it off and your shoes are soaked. It would be time for lunch!

I say go for it!

What's the difference between a hiking pole and a trekking pole??

Spelling and pronunciation.