Backpacking for Beginners

“Wilderness is not a luxury but a necessity of the human spirit.”

Oregon has it ALL!

Backpacking Basics:

Bathroom and trail etiquette

Essential backpacking items

Basic safety rules to follow at ALL times!

Leave No Trace (LNT)1. Plan ahead and prepare

2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces

3. Leave what you find

4. Minimize campfire impacts

5. Respect wildlife

6. Be considerate of other travelers

7. Dispose of waste properly

http://www.lnt.org/programs/principles.php

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare

Plan your meals to avoid excessive weight

Plan mileage

Trip plan! Have a list of all the things and check them off as you go.

2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

Walk on designated trails

Try not to camp on vegetation (instead camp on moss or dirt)

3. Leave What You Find

Leave the rocks and sticks for the critters – it is all a part of their home!

4. Minimize Campfire Impacts

Have a fire in designated areas!

Make a fire ring/re-use others fire rings

Keep fires small and manageable

Put out the fire all the way and clean up!

5. Respect the Wildlife

Observe creatures from a distance

Don't feed them! (They'll start to expect humans to feed them)

Hug a tree!

6. Be Considerate of Other Hikers

Have fun on the trail but be aware of your noise level

Pick up after yourself

7. Dispose of Waste Properly

PACK IT IN PACK IT OUT!

Wash your dishes, hair, whatever 200ft away from water

Biodegradable doesn't mean you can wash into a water source

Pottying in the Woods 101200ft away from water

(and trail if possible)

Dig a cathole 6-8in deep

Use natural TP- bury it

Use your own TP – pack it out!

Use a stick and swirl it!

Blend the evidence!

Safety First!

Prepare for your trips beforehand (take a class, do map and compass work)

Travel with a buddy!

Check out weather reports of the place you are traveling

Leave a detailed plan with someone you trust – give them a freak out time

Get Outside and Have Fun!

Remember the things you have learned today about:

Travel and bathroom etiquette

What to pack

Basic safety guidelines

AND GET OUTSIDE!