Beloved by locals and admired by adventurers nation wide, Indiana Dunes National Park offers seclusion, invigorating hiking, and an escape from city life. On this two-day backpacking trip through this newly minted National Park, we'll explore the lakeshore and surrounding forest while keeping an eye out for the critters that call this area home. We'll traverse 6 miles the first day to a peaceful campsite where we'll cook dinner and settle in for a tranquil night under the stars. In the morning, we'll continue on with 3 more miles out of the park. Before setting out, we'll get you set up with much of the gear you need, and all food is provided, but please show up with your own personal sleeping bag and sleeping pad. We hope you'll join us!
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 setting-up 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