- Estimated Cost: $25
- Deposit: $10
- Max Trip Size: 6 people
Want to try backpacking for the first time? Maybe you’ve been out once and want to solidify your skills? Then this trip is for you!
We’ll plan this trip together from selecting the route and campsites to figuring out meals and logistics. In the process, you’ll learn how to plan a trip; choose the right gear, clothing and food; pack a backpack, navigate and camp in the backcountry; filter water, hang a bear bag, and cook with a backpacking stove; and train to get in shape for the challenge.
Don’t have the gear? We can probably get what you need from the gear locker!
This trip is open to 5 Rovers who have been on 0 or 1 backpacking trips. If there are still spots available Aug. 1st, the trip will open up to Rovers with more backpacking experience.
Note: “Beginner” here is in terms of backcountry hiking/camping skills and abilities. The Superior Hiking Trail is rugged and more difficult than most state park trails in Minnesota. You should be able to handle 8-10 miles with a 30-lb. pack on state park trails that at least come close to replicating the SHT (e.g., Afton, Banning, Jay Cooke, most parks along the north shore, or Interstate Park, WI.)
The weekend will include driving up to the north shore in the morning and hiking in the afternoon on Friday, 2 full days of hiking Saturday& Sunday, and a morning hike and drive home in the afternoon Monday. We will start early each day so we have the best chance of getting spots in the better campsites on what may be a busy weekend. I estimate we will cover more than 24 but fewer than 30 miles on this trip.
We will have a ~3 hour pre-trip get together in July to plan our route, logistics and sort out what gear to bring; and a training hike with full backpack in August. Be sure to read our policies on communication and participation so you know what’s expected of you.
Once accepted, a deposit of $10 payable to the coordinator will hold your space. Estimated costs include SHT shuttle and/or state park campsite (if needed.) Add to that your food, gas, etc. You must be a member to sign up, and your membership must be current at the time of the trip.
Contact Mike O. for more information, to sign up, and to get access to Google docs for more information (carpooling, tent sharing, etc.)