Beginners Winter Backpacking Course

This is a continuation of the "What to pack for a winter trip" course on Jan 22nd. On this trip we will snowshoe 4 KM into the backcountry of Algonquin on a skill building trip. I will be introducing the skills that are needed to travel safely and comfortably in the backcountry in winter while on snowshoes.

This trip has some very rigid requirements unlike most other trips. You must

• Have attended the "What to pack for a winter trip (http://www.meetup.com/KW-Backcountry/events/160775212/)" on Jan 22nd.

• Have proven experience backpacking on a non-guided trip. That means you carried your own kit and managed all your own needs. I will be checking.

• You must be in good physical condition. Winter can be very strenuous. You should be able to run 8K in less than an hour.

• Your packed items must be inspected and approved by me, Tim, during the week before trip.

For the safety of the whole group exceptions will not be permitted. A packing list can be found here

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AlPfqDgNXnDwdFBONkgwVzRYU1k0OHd0SUNkWEhneUE&usp=sharing (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1j260l_iAxgUTmznS4vH_P4p0QTnpmbsLJ04nO2DC-Q8/edit?usp=sharing)

I will be conducting a gear inspection at the Rum Runner Tuesday February 4th between 7-8 PM. Other times can be arranged if you are willing to come to my house (located near King and Victoria.

Expenses

I am collecting $20 to apply towards expenses. Additional funds will be need to cover the remaining expenses. Without doing the math I estimate this will be another $30-50. You also need cash for meals along the way and fuel for driving.

The itinerary

• Friday night drive up to Huntsville and stay at the Best Western

• Saturday we ill have breakfast and start discussing the skill you will need to learn. We will then drive into the park and hike in to Maple Lake. There we will make camp and practice more skills.

• Sunday we will hike out and head home.

Use the comment space below to arrange car pools and gear sharing.