Introduction to Backpacking

July 17-19, 2009

$325

Who is this trip for?

Introduction to Backpacking is for the woman who is interested in learning how to backpack. Maybe you love to hike, but want to take your adventuring to the next level, but don't know all the details! We'll spend three days and two nights learning (and putting to good use) important skills and techniques for backpacking - including what to bring, how to pack your pack and wear it correctly, food planning, water purification, sanitation, and more.

What kind of activities will we be doing?

The intent of this weekend retreat is to enjoy making new friends, to spend some time relaxing and getting comfortable with backpacking in a supportive, non-competitive atmosphere. Friday night we will spend time getting to know each other, cooking dinner, and packing for our hike. Saturday we will start our backpack - a moderate, beautiful hike in the Alpine Lakes region wilderness on Ingalls Trail. Sunday we will finish our hike. Depending on the group's desires, we can extend our hike. We'll have lots of time to talk about backpacking basics, as well as have a good time.

What is the fitness level of this course?

We want our trips to be inclusive to all types of women who enjoy the outdoors - especially those who are interested in trying packing packing - no matter what age you are. On this trip, the fitness level is Active - the hike will include some elevation gain. You must be able and willing to hike at least 11 miles in two days, while carrying your backpack of gear (35-45 lbs). We suggest that all participants spend some time walking or hiking several weeks prior to the trip to prevent injuries.

Where are we going and how will we get there?

We will be carpooling from Olympic Outfitters, downtown Olympia on Friday at 9 am. We will camp Friday night at the trail head and Saturday night along the trail. We will be on Ingalls Creek Trail which is located in the Alpine Lakes Region Wilderness. We will be back to Olympia late afternoon on Sunday.

What do I need to bring?

This time of year the weather could be variable. Although it is June, be prepared for rain and cold, and hope for sun!

· Toiletries (tooth brush, small toothpaste, comb, small bottle of lotion, purell, tissues) Be mindful that with backpacking, everything you choose to bring you carry on your back! We suggest leaving things like shampoo, deodorant, makeup, etc at home. There is no place to use such products in the wilderness.

· Medications

· Sleeping bag & Sleeping pad

· Pack

· Hiking poles (optional)

Hiking -

o Comfortable, sturdy boots, 2 pairs well fitting socks

o 2 quart size Water bottle

o Rain coat and/or pants (optional)

o One Fleece or wool sweater

o One pair of Quick dying pants (i.e. Nylon)

o One T Shirt (cotton does not dry quickly so we suggest something synthetic)

o One Long underwear bottom and top (Capilene or synthetic)

o 2 pairs of Underwear, one sports-bra

o Winter hat, gloves, sunglasses

o Camera

o Small notebook and pen

o Bowl, spoon and mug

What will Women Who Wander supply?

We will provide the group with food, cooking supplies, tents, and water filtration system. We'll take care of all the logistics and safety. You don't have to go out and buy all new gear just to give backpacking a try! It's always good to borrow things from friends. Have questions or need to borrow something from us? Just let us know, we are happy to accommodate you. We have some gear to loan participants, if needed.

What will the itinerary look like?

Depending on the needs and desires of the group, our itinerary will change. We plan on the weekend going something along these lines:

Friday -

9am - Carpool meets at Olympic Outfitters, carpool to trailhead

2 pm - Begin Hike 1 mile

6 pm - Dinner

8 pm - Group activities, review of weekend, mini lessons

9 pm - Relaxing … sleep

Saturday -

7 am - Coffee, tea, breakfast

8 am - Mini lessons on backpacking basics

9am - Off we go!

4 pm - Happy Hour

5:30 - Dinner

8 pm - Group activities, relaxing …

Sunday -

7 am - Coffee, tea, breakfast

9 am - Hiking

? pm - Back to trailhead

Late afternoon - Drive home

Payment Schedule and Cancellation Policy

Half the course fee is due as a deposit at time of registering. Full payment is due on the first day of the trip.

Cancellations Prior to Trip

70 % of your deposit will be refunded if you must cancel your reservation 7-30 days before the trip.

25% will be refunded if you cancel 4 - 7 days prior to trip.

0% will be refunded if you cancel 3 days or fewer prior to the trip.

I want to go! How do I sign up?

You can contact Maggie and Leann two ways.

1. Email us at womenwhowander@gmail.com

2. Call us! Leann 360-870-0753 or Maggie 202-222-5334

We will email or send you a registration packet. Please fill out and return to us with your deposit (50% of course fee). Cash and checks payable to Women Who Wander LLC are accepted.