Foundations Weighted Training Hike (Week 5)

Saturday, March 14 | 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM

This week’s weighted hike takes us back to Big Ridge State Park for a scenic lake route and steady endurance miles.

Big Ridge State Park
1015 Big Ridge Park Rd
Maynardville, TN

We will meet at the Park Headquarters / Visitor Center parking area, which has restrooms and plenty of parking.

Planned Route
We will start from the Visitor Center and take the Lake Trail toward the recreation dam. After crossing the dam footbridge, we will turn left and follow Dark Hollow Trail along the lake.
This will be an out-and-back route to keep the pace steady and allow flexibility depending on group energy and pack weight.

Estimated stats:
Distance: ~8 miles
Elevation gain: ~600–700 ft
Difficulty: Moderate weighted training hike

The terrain consists of rolling hills, forest trail, and lakeside sections, making it ideal for pacing practice and steady endurance with a pack.

***

### ABOUT THIS EVENT

This standalone weighted hike continues the progression toward longer distances and sustained effort. The focus is on posture, pacing, and maintaining calm, steady movement under load across mixed terrain.

This is not a race, boot camp, or selection event. We move as a group and finish together.

***

### WHO THIS IS FOR

This hike is appropriate for beginner-to-intermediate and intermediate-level participants who can comfortably hike for several hours with breaks.

This is not intended for trail runners, speed hikers, or anyone unwilling to move at a group pace or follow safety guidance.

***

### DISTANCE, PACE & TIME

• 7–8 miles
• Average pace: ~2.5–3.0 mph
• Planned breaks for hydration, refueling, and regrouping
• Total duration includes buffer time for terrain and group needs

***

### PACK WEIGHT GUIDANCE

This is a weighted hike.

• ~15 lbs non-consumable weight
• Does not include water, food, or essential gear

Examples of non-consumable weight:

• Weight plate or dumbbell
• Sand or gravel in a secure stuff sack
• Commercial ruck plate

Safe loading and carry will be reviewed at the start.

***

### GEAR & PREP

• Backpack with secure fit
• 2+ liters of water
• Trail snacks / calories for sustained effort
• Personal first-aid and foot-care supplies
• Weather-appropriate layers

Specialized rucking gear is not required.

***

### EVENT SUPPORT

Optional donations help support Meetup costs and event logistics.
Donations are not required.

***

### SAFETY & PARTICIPATION

Participants are responsible for their own gear, pacing, decisions, and safety.
Please review the Fierce Planet Adventures Safety & Terms of Participation

Participants who complete 4 weighted hikes in the 2026 series earn one limited “Earned Not Given” sticker (choice of available design).