- Estimated Cost: $20
- Deposit: $20
- Max Trip Size: 6 people
Have you ever wanted to try backpacking? Maybe you’ve been but someone else did all the planning and preparation and provided the gear? This 4-day, 3-night trip is for anyone who wants to learn through participation how to plan, prepare for and safely complete their own backpacking trip.
This trip will be open to up to 5 Rovers with 1 priority space for experienced backpackers who agree to coordinate their own beginner trip within the next year.
Everyone will be expected to fully participate in the planning of this trip from selecting the route and campsites to figuring out meals and logistics. You will also learn how to choose the right gear, clothing and food, pack a backpack, navigate and camp in the backcountry, filter water, hang a bear bag, cook with a backpacking stove and train to get in shape for the challenge. Guidance will be provided as soon as your deposit is received. If you need a pack, tent, bag, mat, stove, etc., we can get it from the gear locker at no cost to you.
The first day of the trip, we will drive up the north shore and hike in the afternoon; then it’s two full days of hiking; the last day we will hike out and drive home in the afternoon. Typically, we hike at least 24 miles but speed and distance will be based on the capabilities and preference of all participants. Camping will be at back-country campsites. The Superior Hiking Trail is rugged and more difficult than most state park trails in Minnesota, so expect to be challenged!
In June, we will have a long get-acquainted day hike at a nearby regional or state park followed by lunch where we will plan our route and talk about gear and logistics.
In July, we will have an 8 to 10-mile training hike with a full pack at Afton State Park where we will set up camp, hang a bear bag, filter water and prepare a meal using backpack stoves. Full participation in the planning hike/meeting and the training hike are absolute conditions of going on this trip. Be sure to read the Minnesota Rovers policies on communication and participation so you know what’s expected of you on a Rovers trip. People who are on the Wait List should also participate in these activities as this will be a requirement if a spot opens up and you want to go on the trip.
Send me an email to sign up. A deposit of $10 payable to the coordinator will hold your space. You will be responsible for your own food and a share of transportation expenses. You must be a member to sign up and your membership must be current at the time of the trip.