by Alexis McAllister, Appalachian Trail (AT) Thru hiker and experienced backpacking teacher and AT Section Maintainer

Alexis McAllister, an AT Thru hiker and experienced backpacking teacher and AT Section Maintainer has graciously offered to host a 6-Week Backpacking 101 Course (Syllabus below) via Google Meet, beginning on Sunday, January 5th, at 7 PM followed by 2 field trips.

Each session will feature a PowerPoint presentation, with a PDF copy provided to participants beforehand. This will allow everyone to follow along during the session and easily reference the material afterwards. By holding sessions on Sunday evenings, the course is designed to be more accessible to those with busy weekday schedules, especially for those who work evenings.

This is a fantastic opportunity for both beginners (like me!) and seasoned hikers to gain valuable backpacking tips, exchange best practices, and contribute to planning exciting backpacking adventures for 2025. You’re welcome to attend all the sessions or just the ones that interest you—there’s no attendance requirement.

To register please email howardnreidjr@gmail.com and registrants will receive the Google Meet link and any course materials. Remember that you can attend as many or as few sessions that interest you. The cost is just your time and interest in backpacking.

Week 2 of 6: Clothing & Accessories Sunday, January 12th
Description: What clothing do we use when? What are all these accessories’ people have for sale and do they work? Gadgets are everywhere! Why are there so many different types of clothing? What do I consider?

Details
Meeting place: via Google Meet (virtual). Please register by emailing to Hike Leader, Howard Reid at howardnreidjr@gmail.com. Registrants will receive the Google Meet link and related course materials.
Posted on meetup.com? NO
Leader: Howard Reid 610-420-8194