Let us help you with your first backpacking experience. Join our instructors on an overnight trip to a nearby scenic camp. Our instructors explain how to choose and use equipment (including how to load and carry your backpack) to maximize your comfort and fun. You'll also learn about campsite selection, camp cooking, water treatment and Leave No Trace etiquette. Course includes all required gear (backpack, tent, sleeping bag, pad, stove, all cookware, trekking poles, and water filters) and food.
Learn how to pack a backpack for fit, balance and accessibility
Learn techniques of how to properly wear and hike with a backpack for ultimate comfort on the trail
Learn additional camp skills such as choosing a camp site, camp cooking, water treatment, sanitation, and Leave No Trace principles
Discover local areas where overnight backpacking is available.
What to bring with you
Gear list
A list of required and optional gear items to bring to class, as well as gear provided by REI.
Bring to class:
(Required)
2 Liters of Water - At least two one-liter water bottles, such as a Nalgene bottle, or a large hydration bladder.
Hiking Boots
Hiking Socks - Mositure wicking socks to help keep your feet cool and dry.
Personal Prescription Medications - Including, but not limited to, epinephrine auto-injectors for anaphylactic allergies.
Personal Toiletries
Rain Gear - Waterproof/resistant jacket, pants and hat.
Sun Protection - Lip balm, sunscreen, wide-brim hats, etc.
Three Season Sleeping Bag - A bag rated 15 degrees plus.
Weather Appropriate Clothing - Moisture wicking synthetic or wool layers to help keep you comfortable and/or dry.
(Optional)
Change of clothes
Energy Snacks
Lip Balm/Protection
Personal Backpacking Equipment - Lightweight tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, etc.
Personal Headlamp/Flashlight
Pillow - Bring a camp pillow (or stuff sack that you can fill with clothing)
Sunglasses
Water Shoes/Sandals - Foot attire that will protect your feet and is okay to get wet. (e.g. Teva, Chaco, Keen (not flip-flops)
Wide Brim Hat w/ Retainer - Sun protective & safe in case of wind
Provided by REI:
Backpack - Internal frame 45-65 liter pack.
Backpacking Stove
Breakfast
Dinner - Food supplied for dinner
Group First Aid Kit - Contents include wound care items and over the counter medications for minor injuries and illnesses
Headlamp/Flashlight
Lunch
Mug
Plate/Bowl
Sleeping Pad - Closed cell foam or self inflatable.
Three Season Backpacking Tent
Trekking Poles
Utensils - A good choice is the REI Campware Utensil Set
From the Blue Ridge Parkway, turn onto Black Balsam Knob Rd. (just past milepost 420) and follow it until the road ends. Park in the large lot and look for your REI guide. There is a pit toilet at the trailhead, but no running water.
