Love the wilderness and connecting with others? Join our professional Outdoor School instructors for an overnight backpack into one of the most stunning areas of Shenandoah National Park. We'll cover 9 miles over two days in this loop over Knob Mountain and up along the beautiful streamside trail and campsites of Jeremy's Run. You can count on great views from Knob Mountain and there's a great chance you'll see some wildlife in the tumbling valley along Jeremy's Run. On day one, you'll meet your instructors early at REI Fairfax to review your gear and make sure you have all you'll need, and then head out for the trailhead. On the trip we'll 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, navigation/route finding, camp cooking, water treatment, wildlife precautions and Leave No Trace etiquette. REI provides transportation and the following gear: backpack, tent, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, stoves, all cookware, trekking poles, water filter and food. Please note; at just over 9 miles roundtrip with over 2600 feet of elevation gain and loss, this trip does involve strenuous exercise.
You will 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 backcountry navigation
Additional camp skills such as choosing a camp site, camp cooking, water treatment, sanitation, and Leave No Trace principles will also be taught.
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
We will meet at the REI Fairfax store to assess student gear, pack our packs, pick up meals and any last minute items you may need (like an extra pair of socks or a base layer). We will then caravan to the trail head in Shenandoah National to begin our hike and overnight adventure. On Sunday afternoon we'll end the trip at the trailhead, de-issue gear and then depart for home.
