J. Wayne Reitz Union
Educating Leaders for a Global Community
Backpacking
Imagine yourself reaching the peak of Cold Mountain as the fog of early morning drifts away to reveal the expansive surrounding tracts. Make your way down the ridge and observe the face of Shining Rock or trek a different path to bathe in refreshing waterfalls. Sound like your typical weekend sitting around Gainesville?
TRiP offers many opportunities to experience the wilderness with nothing but what you are carrying on your back. Try one of the most enjoyable and rewarding ways to see the backcountry. TRiP leads a variety of backpacking excursions, but most consist of three days of hiking and primitive camping, carrying 30-40lbs packs over trail for anywhere from 8-20 miles. Our regular destinations include: Shining Rock Wilderness, Pisgah National Forest, Smoky Mountains, Appalachian Trial, Cumberland Island and the Ocala National Forest. TRiP has also conducted week long backpacking trips at Mount Rogers.
In addition to the items on the participant checklist, backpackers should bring:- Backpacks with hip belt (internal or external frame)
- Pack cover
- Sturdy shoes/boots
- Day pack (suggested)
- Plastic bags (suggested)