Intro Backpacking - A first trip

This trip is an introduction to those who are new and/or uncomfortable with self supported backcountry travel. The focus will be on choosing appropriate equipment and the gaining the skills for backcountry living. We will do this in the format of a backpacking trip but these skills are also transferable to any other trip that requires one to carry one’s needs for multiple days in a backcountry setting. The distances being covered will be small to permit more time for skill building. Participants will need to need to provided or arrange for all of the equipment or gear they will need. Post to the message board here (http://www.meetup.com/KW-Backcountry/messages/boards/) (http://www.meetup.com/KW-Backcountry/messages/boards/) if you lack something and someone may be able to help you find a loaner. This is especially true of expensive items which you may want to borrow before you buy. People are encouraged to use the message board to arrange to share tents and stoves to lessen the amount one has to carry in their packs.

Participants are expected to be in good physical fitness. Backpacking is a strenuous sport involving carrying weight on ones back over uneven and unpredictable terrain. Participants are required to respond to the email address they have registered with Meetup.com in a timely manner. To find a packing list for this trip look in the "Files" section (http://www.meetup.com/KW-Backcountry/files/) (http://www.meetup.com/KW-Backcountry/files/) of the KW Backcountry Meetup site[/url] (More -> Files). Look for "Backpackers Bootcamp Packing list (http://files.meetup.com/1606190/Backpackers%20Bootcamp%20Packing%20list.pdf)". There is a charge for camping in the park which will be partially based on the number of people who turnout. Expect to pay $10-$15 in camping fees. Additionally participants are expected to evenly share, with their fellow passengers, the expense of the fuel for whichever vehicle they come in.

This trip will take place in Bruce Peninsula National Park hiking along the Bruce Trail. This will be a repeat of the "Backpacking Bootcamp" trip from last year which was well received. The Bruce Trail in these parts run along the coast with wide views of the Georgian Bay. The trail runs on top of the Niagara Escarpment which provides a very good path that is well marked.

Friday May 6th at 6PM carpools will head out to the Cyprus Lake campground where we will spend the night.
Saturday morning there will be a review of everyone's gear and introduction into some of the basic skills needed for backpacking.
Saturday afternoon we will set out from Cyprus Lake and hike along the Bruce Trail to the High Dump Campground.
Sunday we will return he same way. We aim to be home by 10PM.