Introduction Backpacking Trip and Shakedown - Overnight at Loop 4 Campsite

Introduction Backpacking Trip and Shakedown
Public / Moderate
This will be a joint Big Cypress - Loxahatchee chapters event!
Activity Leaders: Wayne Vassello and Lorraine Thomas (Big Cypress)

The purpose of this trip is to give the hikers an opportunity to try out their gear and work out through experience and some guidance what they may or may not need to carry on their next trip.

Miles per day about 2.5 Total of about 5 miles.

Campsite has shade, a couple of picnic tables and a fire pit/grill. Also, a water source to filter water.

We will have a short "shake-down" of packs before we leave to confirm everyone has what they will need and answer any questions ahead of the hike to camp. Once in camp, as a group or individually, we will have an opportunity to "lay it all out" to go over not only what you may/may not need. And sometimes more importantly, where things are best placed in your pack.

The hike will begin at 1:00 PM Saturday November 22nd and will end as we exit on Sunday the 23rd. For all who sign up everyone should plan to arrive at the Boardwalk trailhead by 12:15 PM. There is no entry fee into the park.

Both days total miles will be about 5 miles. 2.5 miles per day. The hiking portion of the trip is more about feeling how the pack weighs on our shoulders and hips. This is an opportunity to make some pack adjustments as we move.

As rain is common this time of year, I would expect to encounter water on the trail. Please DO NOT bring any type of waterproof shoe or boot. A second pair of dry socks and camp shoes of some sort will be essential.

Please keep an eye on the weather and be prepared for rain and cooler temps.

Depending on when we decide to leave camp in the morning on the second day, some hikers opt to skip breakfast in camp and meet at a local diner for a group meal afterwards. Details on this will be discussed as we get closer to the event.

There is NO water drop for this location. You will need to filter water.
Minimum Hiking Gear List:
Backpack
Tent
Sleeping pad
Sleeping bag
Insect repellent
Flashlight
Whistle
Food for one dinner and one breakfast (We will be in camp for these meals, so it is a good time to test out your trail cooking. However, you could always bring food that does not need to be cooked and cut out cookware/ stove/ etc.)
Snacks
Stove
Cookware
Eating utensils
Toilet paper and lightweight trowel to bury waste there will be no outhouse/ privy)
Water filtration/ treatment
*If you do not own this equipment and you plan on buying, please remember to buy the lightest weight equipment you can afford. The more weight you have to carry the harder it will be. I do have some extra gear just in case you forget something.
**Keep your gear to a bare minimum. Clothes worn day one can be worn second day. You may want to have a couple pairs of socks and maybe a change of underwear.

If you have any questions please let me know.
Wayne Vassello
Message through Meetup or wvassello@gmail.com