Beginner Backpacking Seminar
by
Mike Juskelis & Betty Steil
Tips, rules and gear for 3-season, weekend
backpacking in the Mid-Atlantic States
This slide show and a summary can be found at
www.midatlantichikes.com and may be used by nonprofit organizations as an introduction to backpacking
with no fee as long as proper attribution is given to the
authors and website and the contents are not modified.
Definitions
Backpacking - is an extension of the past time of
hiking. A friend once told me it's pretty much the
same except you're required to carry everything you
need to exist for the allotted time ... on your back!!!
3-season Backpacking – When the night time
temperatures are above freezing, for this region, MidApril through the first week of November. Colder
temperatures require heavier gear.
Weekend Backpacking – 2 to 3 day trips, sometimes
4. Longer trips require larger, more robust packs,
more food, better logistics.
Why Backpack?
Exercise with no gym fees
Explore far away places
Find solitude
Enjoy the “wilderness” experience
Witness greater vistas than found close to home
such as ………
The Lion’s Head, Dolly Sods, MNF, VA
Otter Creek Wilderness, MNF, WV
Roaring Plains, MNF, WV
High Meadows, Seneca Creek Backcountry, MNF, WV
Seneca Falls, Seneca Creek Backcountry, MNF, WV
Pine Creek from the Black Forest Trail, PA
Black Moshannon Lake, PA
North View from Black Rocks, SNP, VA
Mount Pleasant from Cole Mountain, GWNF, VA
Rock Run Drainage from the Old Loggers Path, PA
The Roaring Plains,MNF, WV
View from Spy Rock, GWNF, VA
Summit Lake, MNF, WV
View from Table Rock, Canaan Mt, MNF, WV
View of The Priest from Three Ridges, GWNF, VA
LET’S GET GEARED UP!!!!
• Think light, small and compressible.
• Comparison shop.
• Read reviews or check out forums before
purchasing an item, e.g. REI, Backpacker magazine.
• Ask an experienced Backpacker.
• Try borrowing before buying (But make sure it
fits!).
• Buy quality. Remember “You pay for what you
get.”
Footwear
• Consider mid-weight, medium top, waterproof
boots from a reputable manufacturer for long treks
over rocky terrain. F F
• Use an incline for testing proper fit. When going up
the incline your heel should not slide on the back of
the boot. When descending your toes should not jam
into the front of the "toe box" of the boot.
• Wear light weight wool or Smart-wool® socks
designed specifically for hiking. If blistering occurs,
add wicking liners (polypropylene, silk, other
wicking fabrics) under your socks. These “wick”
dampness and transfer the rubbing action to the
outer sock instead of your skin.. Cotton stays damp.
• Consider sandals or light sneakers for stream
crossings and relaxing by the campfire at night.
Clothing*
• For all seasons your undergarments should be made
of a wicking fabric such as polypropylene or polyamide.
These materials carry moisture away from your body
and dry quickly.
• Warm weather outerwear should also possess
wicking properties and “breath”.
• Cotton (Denim) and cotton blends are heavy and hot.
Once they get wet they stay wet longer. “Cotton Kills.”
Nylon and polypropylene shirts and trousers are better
alternatives.
• Trousers with "zip-off" legs come in handy when
temperature vary through the course of an outing or
when trails are overgrown with stinging nettles or
thorns.
• In colder temperatures, layer. The space between
the layers of clothing holds your body warmth.
Synthetic fleece, wool and combinations of both work
well for the cold months.
Head & Hands
• Don't forget your head and hands. A large
percentage of body heat is lost through the
extremities!
• In the summer or when you're overheated, vent this
heat, but consider a hat to keep the sun off your head.
Wear a hat (or bandana) that will protect, but also
vent.
• In the winter or when you're cold, trap it. Choose a
wool or fleece cap. Wind proof is a plus.
• Gloves: Consider light weight synthetic gloves even
in spring and fall if your hands get cold easily. Use
these as a liner for a more waterproof glove in very
cold weather. Consider that, cold or not, you have to
use your hands to set up and take down camp.
Rain Gear
• For the occasional hiker a disposable poncho
might be sufficient. Heavier ponchos and heavy rain
gear trap your body heat, a disadvantage in warm
weather. They may also limit your view of obstacles
in the trail.
• Consider a light weight, breathable rain suit. This
can also double as outerwear around camp on chilly
nights, thereby reducing your trail wardrobe (and
kit weight).
• Prices range greatly from water resistant, water
proof (coated fabric), water proof (Gortex®). Look
for taped seams, and flaps over zippers or water
proof zips.
• This can be an important purchase, so compare,
borrow, and talk to experienced backpackers before
making this purchase.
Backpacks
• Good strap/support system
• Women’s vs. Men’s – They are different.
• Some manufacturers can interchange harness and
belt.
• 3500 - 4500 cui volume depending on duration of
trips, season, and type of gear to be carried
• Weigh less than 5 lbs
• Optional: separate sleeping bag compartment
•Optional: lid convertible to fanny pack, Side pockets
for bottles and/or hydration bladder compatible
•A rain cover and internal packing in plastic bags is
often worthwhile too.
Backpack Size and Adjusting
• Backpacks come in different sizes and these may
not be uniform between manufacturers.
• Go to a reputable outfitter and get sized for a
pack (even if buying the same pack on-line). Try
other outfitters.
• When adjusting your pack, most of the load
should be carried on top of your hips (not around
or below). An internal pack should be flush against
your back. There should be a slight triangle of
space between the pack and your shoulders.
•There should be no space between the top of the
shoulder straps and your shoulders but there
should be little, if any, load on them.
•When climbing prolonged, steep hills you may
want to temporarily take some of the load off of
your hips and put it on your shoulders by adjusting
the load shifting straps.
Tent*
• Your tent is your shelter in a storm, so be
sure it will work that way if you need it.
• Think light. You have to carry it.
• Most tents have overrated capacities.
• Consider stand-alone tents.
• Non-free-standing tents are usually lighter
than stand-alones.
• Double-walled tents (separate body and rain
fly) have less of a condensation problem.
• Vestibule and door for each occupant is nice
but not necessary. Depends on your
relationship.
• Use a footprint to protect the bottom of your
tent.
Sleeping Bag
• Synthetic or down filling
• Warmth rating typically overrated.
• 20-25+ good for April-May and Sept-Nov
• 45+ good for summer
• Down is the lightest and most compressible.
• Down does not insulate when wet.
• Down requires a little more care to launder.
• There are excellent, light-weight synthetics on the
market these days but they typically pack larger.
Mattress
• Most youngsters can go without. Adults prefer.
• Types – closed cell and open cell. Always get
closed cell for backpacking.
• There are full length and ¾ lengths, women’s
padding, and variations of widths and thicknesses
• Some of these have an R rating.
• Examples Soft foam mats
Therm-a-Rest® Z-Lite solid mattress
Inflatables
- Therm-a-Rest®, Slumberjack®
Hydration System
• Use a 2 liter bladder (or carry 2 - 1 liter bottles) for
backpacking trips when there are several water
sources through the course of a day.
• Carry 3 liters for very long hiking days or when
water is at a premium.
• Avoid putting other beverages in the bladders as
this leads to cleaning issues and may impact your
ability to purify water in these containers if using
chemical treatment
• Consider empty polypropylene bottles for collecting
water to facilitate refilling a hydration bladder or for
other purposes.
• Dehydration is probably the most common, and
easily prevented “ailment” on backpacking trips, even
in cold weather. Headaches and muscle spasms are
symptoms.
How to Prevent Dehydration
Consume at least one liter of water or sports drink
before each day of hiking.
Drink frequently during the day even when you’re
not thirsty. You should drink at least 2 liters
during a day’s hike.
After arriving at camp drink one liter of water or
sports drink within the first hour.
Mix sports drink as directed.
Water Purification
Never drink from an untreated water source!!!
• Bacteria, viruses, parasites inhabit the streams of
what appears to be the most pristine forests.
• Giardia is a microscopic parasite that causes
diarrhea 2-20 days after ingestion. It can be safely
destroyed or removed by:
1. Boiling water for 1 minute (requires extra fuel)
2. Chemical treatment with iodine, chlorine, chlorine
dioxide (light, easy, but requires wait time)
3. Filtration (weight and maintenance of filter. Can
drink immediately.)
• All filters require maintenance between trips.
Disposable cartridge type filters should be flushed with
one liter of water containing about ¼ tsp of bleach.
Flush out the bleach with a liter of clean tap water.
Remove the cartridge and allow it to air dry.
Stove*
• White Gas – most versatile, most dependable, takes
some practice and requires periodic maintenance.
Stoves tend to be heavier. They have the best fuel to
burn time ratio. Cylinders are refillable.
• Propane/Iso-butane – easiest, but have to carry
canisters in and out. (Only efficient at temperatures
above 45 degrees.)
• Alcohol – Easiest. Lightest. Efficient. No moving
parts to maintain. Little control over flame. Low BTU
output. Good for boiling water.
• Others – Wood?
• SAFETY NOTES: Before cooking make sure the area is
free of all flammable debris. It's best to do your
cooking on top of a nice flat rock whenever possible.
Practice at home, outside and on the ground.
“The Kitchen”
Pots, lid
Mug
Utensils
P-38 can opener
Scrubbing pad/pot
holder
Biodegradable soap
Cord
Empty Zip-lock bag for
trash
Fire Starter sticks
(opt)
Waterless hand
cleaner
Cigarette lighter
Waterproof matches
Compass
• Smallest , yet the most valuable piece of hiking
equipment. You need not buy an expensive one nor is
it necessary to be an expert in its use. However, at
the minimum, be able to orient your map to true
north.
• Instruction available on the Internet, REI classes
(free), books such as “Essential Map and Compass.”
• The best topographical map on the planet is useless
if you don't know what direction you're walking.
First Aid
• The size of your kit will vary depending on the length
and difficulty of your outings.
• At the minimum it should consist of band-aids, sterile
wipes, gauze, antiseptic ointment, mole skin and/or
duct tape (for blisters) and perhaps an ace bandage.
• Don’t forget personal medications and antiinflammatory medications.
• Longer backpacking trips require a larger, more
complex kit, especially if you are responsible for
others. You can build your own or purchase them at a
health care store or outfitter.
• Whatever you do, inspect it several times a year and
replace any components that have deteriorated or have
been expended.
Wilderness First Aid
Remember that you will be several miles or days from civilization.
If going out by yourself or leading others consider taking a wilderness
first aid course through your local American Red Cross. Cost = $125.00.
Lighting:
Pack a small, light weight but powerful
flashlight or headlamp for the evenings at campsite or for
those times you might still be out on the trail at night. Keep
the batteries fresh and consider carrying spares.
Scoop or Shovel:
Nature is our bathroom while we are
backpacking. Use a scoop or small shovel to dig a cat hole for
fecal matter and TP. Bury at least 6” deep. Otherwise, the
animals and weather will surface the paper.
Urine does not have to be buried. Consider a flat rock or
rotting branch to create a salt lick. Mother Nature and the
bacteria containing earth will take care of the rest. Please do
this far away from the trail and any water source.
Knife:
It doesn't have to be anything fancy. A simple pen
knife will do. Use it to cut cord, make repairs, prepare food or
trim a marshmallow roasting stick. A knife with a scissors is
nice.
Food*
Unlimited possibilities
Need all food groups but focus on carbs.
• Freeze Dried meals
from Mountain House,
etc.
• Esskay Pouch Meals:
Chili, Cream Chip Beef,
BBQed Pulled Pork ..
• Foil packaged seafood
and chicken
• Pudding and fruit cups
• Pasta and noodles
• Breads
• Gorp, trail mix
• Dried fruit
• Coffee, Tea
• Granola
• Oatmeal
• Powdered seasonings
and dry milk
• Power Bars, Snickers
• Jerky
• Dehydrated food
• Frozen meals from
home for first night
• Uncle Ben’s Precooked rice in a pouch
Prepare
1. If you are a novice, travel with an experienced
backpacker(s).
2. Assemble your gear and inventory it. Have a list of
what you need while you are getting ready.
3. Research. Collect the necessary maps (Topos are
the best!) and trail guides. Plot your route.
Sometimes having more then one reference is
preferred. Have one or more bail-out routes.
4. If you are just getting started, begin short and
easy. Increase the length and difficulty of your trips
as you gain experience.
5. ALWAYS let others know your plans, route and
when you should be home. Stick with these plans.
DO NOT GO SOMEWHERE ELSE. When possible,
leave emergency contact numbers for the local
Rangers and police.
Trailhead Security
There are always risks when leaving your vehicle
unattended.
If unfamiliar with the area contact the Forest or
Park service and ask them about frequencies of
vandalism and/or break ins.
Contact other hikers familiar with the area.
Do not leave anything in the vehicle that you don’t
want stolen. This includes keys, wallets, cell
phones, etc.
Do not leave items in plain site.
Do not leave bags of any kind in the open.
Bear Safety
…. On the trail
• Do not make eye contact.
• Stand tall, shout and clap your hands.
• If the bear does not leave, back away slowly.
• Sometimes Black Bears will charge. This is
usually a bluff.
• Do not run. (They will easily catch you.)
• Do not feint death. (Only works on Grizzlies …
sometimes).
• Do not climb a tree. (They are better, faster
climbers then you.)
• If there are cubs, look for the sow. Do not get
between a sow and her cub(s)! Back away and
let them reunite and move on.
• Don’t take flash photos. Bears are light
sensitive.
…. In Camp
• Use the “Bearmuda Triangle”: Fire and food prep in
one corner, clean-up in the second corner and the
bear bag in the third corner. Tents are outside of the
triangle or smellable area.
• Bear bag all food, food waste and packaging and
smellables (medicines, toothpaste, etc).
• No food or smellables in the tent!!! This includes
clothing that you have prepared food in. Leave it in a
waterproof bag OUTSIDE your tent in the triangle.
This also includes your pack.
• Deodorants, perfumes and colognes should be left
in your vehicle. (You’ll need them at the end of the
trek but bears are really attracted to them.)
• Hang the bear bag at least 30 yards from camp.
It should be on a limb that a bear cannot climb
out on. A man of average height should not be
able to reach up and touch the bottom of the
bag. If using a rope between 2 trees, the trees
should be 12 feet apart and the bag(s) should be
in the middle of the rope.
• Secure your pack for inclement weather and
hang it or place it within the smellable area of
camp away from your tent .
•Do not leave refuse of any sort in the fire ring.
Other Hazards to Look Out for …
Timber Rattlesnake (photos by Tony Van Vugt)
Copperhead Snake
Brown Recluse Spider
Black Widow Spider
Deer Tick
Wood/Dog Tick
Male Female
Route for Lyme’s Disease
Deer Tick Bite
Poison Ivy
Stinging Nettle
Trail Safety – Other Hazards
Red Creek – Dolly Sods
< 05-28-04
6:00 P.M.
05-29-04 >
10:00 A.M.
Leave No Trace*
Principles of Outdoor Ethics
http://www.lnt.org/programs/lnt7/plan.html
1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
3.
Dispose of Waste Properly
4.
Leave What You Find
5.
Minimize Campfire Impacts
6.
Respect Wildlife
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors
1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
Know the regulations and special concerns for
the area you’ll visit.
Prepare for extreme weather, hazards, and
emergencies
Schedule your trip to avoid times of high use.
Visit in small groups. Split large parties into
groups of 4-6.
Repackage food to minimize waste.
Use a map and compass to eliminate the use of
marking paint, rock cairns or flagging.
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
Durable surfaces include established trails and
campsites, rock, gravel, dry grasses or snow.
Protect riparian areas by camping at least 200 feet
from lakes and streams.
Good campsites are found, not made. Altering a
site is not necessary.
In popular areas:
Concentrate use on existing trails and campsites.
Walk single file in the middle of the trail, even
when wet or muddy.
Keep campsites small. Focus activity in areas
where vegetation is absent.
In pristine areas:
Disperse use to prevent the creation of campsites
and trails.
Avoid places where impacts are just beginning.
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
Pack it in, pack it out. Inspect your campsite and
rest areas for trash or spilled foods. Pack out all
trash, leftover food, and litter.
Deposit solid human waste in cat holes dug 6 to 8
inches deep at least 200 feet from water, camp,
and trails. Cover and disguise the cat hole when
finished.
Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products.
To wash yourself or your dishes, carry water 200
feet away from streams or lakes and use small
amounts of biodegradable soap. Scatter strained
dishwater. Carry out or consume any particles.
4. Leave What You Find
Preserve the past: Examine, but do not touch,
cultural or historic structures and artifacts.
Leave rocks, plants, and other natural objects as
you find them.
Avoid introducing or transporting non-native
species
Do not build structures, furniture, or dig trenches.
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
Campfires can cause lasting impacts to
the backcountry. Use a lightweight stove
for cooking and enjoy a candle lantern for
light.
Where fires are permitted, use
established fire rings, fire pans, or mound
fires.
PLEASE DO NOT CREATE A NEW FIRE
RING!!
Keep fires small. Only use sticks from the
ground that can be broken by hand.
Burn all wood and coals to ash, put out
campfires completely, then scatter cool
ashes.
6. Respect Wildlife
Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not
follow or approach them.
Never feed animals. Feeding wildlife
damages their health, alters natural
behaviors and exposes them to predators
and other dangers.
Protect wildlife and your food by storing
rations and trash securely.
Control pets at all times or leave them at
home.
Avoid wildlife during sensitive times:
mating, nesting, raising young, or winter.
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors
Respect other visitors and protect the
quality of their experience.
Be courteous. Yield to other users on the
trail.
Step to the downhill side of the trail when
encountering pack stock.
Take breaks and camp away from trails
and other visitors.
Let nature’s sounds prevail. Avoid loud
voices and noises.
Enjoy your trip to the fullest!
References for Beginners
• The Complete Hiker, Colin Fletcher
• Hiking and Backing, A Trailside Guide, Karen Berger
• Leave No Trace –
http://www.lnt.org/programs/lnt7/plan.html