Do you want to learn how to hike faster, lighter, and be more comfortable covering more miles everyday? This intro to lightweight backpacking will teach you how to get started with the gear you already have or how to get started without breaking the bank on new gear.

This class is designed for new and experienced backpackers who want to learn how to be more efficient with their gear. Those that are new to backpacking will gain a better understanding of exactly what lightweight backpacking is and how it compares to more traditional backpacking education. Experienced backpackers will learn how to change their mindset and mentality around their gear and what they take on the trail.

In this class we will cover the core principles of lightweight backpacking and take a look at how they apply to the gear you take on the trail. Once we have a grasp on the core principles, we will talk about the big three pieces of gear; your shelter, pack, and sleeping bag as well as checkout a variety of setups and gear demos. After we have a better understanding of the gear and principles we will go through an activity that is essential to having a better understanding of your own gear and how it can be improved. Now that all your gear will be out and about, we will coved packing methods that challenge everything you have ever heard about how to pack your backpack. Lastly, we will end the day making a few camp kitchen essentials that will lead us into Sundays class, DIY Meals Ready to Eat.

DIY Meals Ready to Eat

Are you someone who likes to be prepared for emergencies? Remember when the COVID lockdown hit and the grocery stores were empty? Why not learn how to make and store meals ready to eat (MRE) that can live on the shelf months or even years?

This class will teach you everything you need to know to get started making your own MRE’s. Our instructors will go over things like nutritional considerations, planning for individuals versus families, packaging options for storing and traveling, the tools need create shelf stable MRE’s and so much more!