Introduction to Backpacking Course

October 06, 2023 through October 11, 2023

Community, Downtown, Festivals, Naturalist Programs, Outdoor, Tours

Enjoy a beautiful section of the Buckeye trail while taking part in your 1st or your 21st backpacking adventure. Participants will learn all necessary skills to complete a backpacking trip, and will leave empowered to hit the trail again soon. This is a good first backpacking trip for people with hiking experiences or a regular fitness routine. It is also a fun time for people with backpack experiences to share the love of the trail with others. This is a fully supported course providing food, rentable gear, and hands-on instruction on all beginner topics. Weekend itinerary: Friday October 6th Meet at Tecumseh Theater for gear shakedown at 11 AM. Expert backpacking guides will go over participants' gear to ensure everyone is prepared for the adventure. Hit the trail by 2:30 PM to hike a three to six mile backpacking route with a camping option at mile marker three at the Upstream Rock Run Restoration Area. Participants will have the option to continue hiking for up to three more miles or stay at the campsite to learn survival skills and various camping activities and skills. All participants will receive a Leave No Trace(LNT) certification while hiking with a LNT instructor and learning the various LNT principles throughout the Backpacking Course Locally sourced dinner will be provided Saturday October 7st Participants will be provided a locally sourced backcountry breakfast Three mile hike back to trail head Debrief & LNT Certifications at Tecumseh Theater Participants are invited and encouraged to stay and enjoy the festivities of the Blue Blaze Festival