Whether you’re planning your first-ever backpacking trip or are looking to refresh your backcountry skills, this hands-on demonstration of essential backpacking gear and skills will prepare you to backpack more comfortably, safely, and responsibly!
Join licensed guide Chris Varian for an information-packed session covering:
Planning & preparation for a backpacking trip
10 essentials & gear considerations for individuals and groups
Tent site selection
Bear hangs & proper backcountry food storage
Water treatment
Personal hygiene & waste disposal
Leave No Trace principles
This session will include a variety of gear demonstrations as well as hands-on skill practice. No backpacking gear is required; however, if participants would like to bring personal gear to practice with, they are welcome to do so.
We will meet at the Bradley Road entrance to Trout Brook Valley (drive through the open gate just to the right of the main parking lot and go to the interior Hunter's parking lot). Please, no dogs. Also, there is little or no internet connection in area and no bathroom facilities.
Event is open to the public.
Priority to members. Maximum 12 people. RSVP required.
13 yrs and up
Chris is a professional guide and outdoor educator devoted to sharing the skills people need to experience and enjoy the outdoors more safely and responsibly in all four seasons. He leads backpacking and wilderness skills programs, instructs technical climbing skills courses, teaches beginner and intermediate kayak skills, and guides kayak tours on waterways from Hudson River to Long Island Sound.
His certifications include Wilderness First Responder, Adult/Child/Infant CPR, AMGA Single Pitch Instructor, ACA Coastal Kayak Instructor (L2 Continued), and NY State Licensed Guide: Tier 1 Rock, Hiking, Camping. Chris is also Leave No Trace certified. He currently lives in Brookfield, CT, and guides programs from New Jersey to New Hampshire.