A great chance to gain confidence and skills for your next backpacking adventure.

This Beginner's Backpacking Weekend is tailored for AHC beginner backpackers led by Alexis McCallister, an experienced AT thru-hiker, Appalachian Trail Section Maintainer, and recent instructor at the Treksylvania’s Backpacking Essentials event. Limited to just 8 participants, this weekend offers a unique opportunity to learn essential backpacking skills and the basics of safe outdoor travel in a small, supportive group. This is a chance to gain confidence and skills for your next backpacking adventure. The cost is just your time, food and gear. To register please email or text Howard N. Reid Jr. at howardnreidjr@gmail.com, or cell 610-420-8194.

Start: 9am Saturday Dec 7th
End: 10am Sunday Dec 8th
Location: Appalachian Trailhead on Ashfield Rd.
Route: AT Northbound, from Ashfield Rd to SR-873. Campsite 4 mile in from Ashfield Rd.

Weather permitting. If there is rain or the temperature drops below 30 we will postpone until the spring.

Agenda for Trip:
I. Meet at trailhead Campsite on Ashfield Road.
II. Review Leave No Trace.
III. Dig an adequate cat hole.
IV. Hike along the AT, practicing navigation, stop for lunch and continuing to designated Campsite (Campsite can support tents or hammocks).
V. Enjoy evening at site with support as needed to use gear, ask questions etc. Make and eat dinner.
VI. Next morning breakfast then break down camp. Hike down last mile to parking lot.

Basic Packing List:
Sleep System: hammock or tent setup, sleep pad, sleeping bag.
Clothes: warm layers. Change for bed. Wool socks. Hat/beanie for sleeping.
Food: lunch, dinner, breakfast.
Cook System. Bear bag or canister (have some for sign out if needed).
Water bottles with a Filtration system. No water at campsite. Water is 0.5 mile from Campsite. So 1 mile round-trip.
Electronics: recharging, Headlamp, in-reach/solo/spot, etc. (Will help you learn to use if you need assistance)
Other: Sitting pad, first aid kit, compass, privy kit. (Shovel. Toilet paper, etc.)

We will have a Virtual Shakedown Zoom Meeting on Tuesday Dec 3rd at 7pm. You will receive a link to Zoom Meeting after registration.

Details
Hike / bike / on-water distance: 8 miles
Hike rating: B
Meeting place: To register please email Howard N. Reid Jr. at howardnreidjr@gmail.com, or text to 610-420-8194 cell.

Posted on meetup.com? NO
Leader: Howard Reid 610-420-8194