GetBackpacking! Everything from Getting Started to Going Ultralight

Eager to learn about backpacking — or to learn more? Our informal information session is just the thing for newbies to find out how to get started backpacking as well as for more experienced hikers to learn how to shed weight — lots of weight — from their packs.

For newbies: We'll talk about how easy it is to get into backpacking, especially with our two introductory programs (Overnight Sampler and the more intensive Intro to Backpacking) geared to those who've never backpacked, or those who haven't backpacked in a really long time. We'll also talk about our 10 favorite places to backpack in the region.

For more experienced hikers: Our favorite backpack trips (derived from presenter Joe Miller's "Backpacking North Carolina" guide book) should shed light on new places to explore. And, GetBackpacking! guide Brandon Hicks will discuss the advantages of going ultralight — and how you can make it happen.

We'll have handouts for both, plus, Winston-Salem-based Fiddlin' Fish Brewing Company will be on hand with offerings of its amber awesomeness.

Beer & Backpacking: the second best way to spend a Saturday afternoon if you can't actually be on the trail.