Backpacking 201 Clinic – Field Skills - Brown’s Gap to Roaring Fork Shelter

*** PLEASE READ THE WHOLE POST BEFORE SIGNING UP ***

RSVP INFORMATION

RSVPs are now open for sign-up to be added to the Wait List.

*** While this event is open to anyone with basic prior backpacking experience, first preference will be given to those who have completed any of my prior BP 101 - Beginning Backpacking clinics. **

*** You must answer all 4 questions at RSVP, in order to be moved off the Wait List. ***

Be advised : I'm no longer willing to chase folks down for the information.

THE BASICS
This event is a learning hike intended for newer backpackers who have basic skills who want to become more proficient in their gear selection and packing, more comfortable in their abilities, safer in the backcountry, and learn some new skills.

The total hike is 10+ miles round trip, with @1100 feet of elevation change. The overall hike is rated Moderate due to the moderate daily length, good trail conditions, and moderate total elevation gain. There is one tough section with 800 feet of elevation gain over less than a mile at the start.

Because GSMNP doesn't allow tenting at Park shelters we will be camping outside the park near Max Patch Mountain, at the Roaring Fork Shelter on the AT.

We will meet at the Cold Stream Creek Rd (Rally Point) at 9:00 for some basic information and demonstrations, followed by a pack inspection and some gear distribution. We’ll then shuttle hikers to Brown’s Gap and hike about 5.2 miles north on the Appalachian Trail to the Roaring Fork shelter, which has capacity for 10, with 7 tent platforms available. The shelter has water nearby and a privy. We’ll do more instruction along the way and at the shelter.

COURSE OF INSTRUCTION
Basic Backpacker First Aid – Backpacker specific issues (sprains, strains, blisters, chafing, dehydration, hypothermia, heat related issues)

Maps and Navigation – Basic Map and compass use, creating and using topographical maps, map reading and basic route finding using UTM & USNG grids

Fire building – three methods of building a fire, building a fire in wet conditions, how to use strikers, flint, and magnesium

Freezer Bag Cooking – preparing homemade freeze-dried and frozen meals

Field repair – fix leaky sleeping pads; ripped sleeping bags, tents and coats; repair broken tent poles and shoe soles in the field with minimal gear/tools

Hammock camping – an introduction to the basics of hammock camping

WHAT TO BRING
Bring a packed backpack, hiking poles, water, lunch (2), dinner, breakfast and snacks, and a willingness to learn new stuff with a great group of people. You will not necessarily need a stove or water filter. We will have plenty to share, and there is a privy and water at the shelter.

We may have a limited selection of backpacking gear to lend. Let us know what you might need to borrow when you RSVP.

IMPORTANT RSVP INFORMATION

When you RSVP please let us know:

1. Your prior backpacking experience level
2. What gear, if any, you would like to borrow
3. Whether you will be tenting, hammock camping, or using the shelter
4. Your email address for handouts

We'll use your email to distribute all handouts for the clinic. It is not possible to send them out using Meetups messages.

** You will only receive these handouts by providing your email address when you RSVP. **

Attendance is limited for this hike. First come-first served.

Early responders will get their choice of sleeping arrangements, while later responders get whatever is left.

*** If you don't specify whether you want tent, hammock, or sleep in the shelter when you RSVP ,you go to the back of the line. ***

MAPS AND NAVIGATION

Browns Gap to Roaring Fork Shelter Map

Browns Gap to RF Shelter Elevation Profile

(Elevation is exaggerated so you can see the smaller changes along the way)
Browns Gap to RFS .gpx file (download only)

DIRECTIONS
Directions to the BP 101 Rally Point from I-40 Exit 7 in NC

This route is generally safe for most vehicles, even though it is a gravel road, and has a fair number of potholes and washboards.

CELL PHONE COVERAGE
Once you leave I-40 you will lose service, as well as your ability to download map data, and will need to have the Rally Point visible on your screen. If you lose service just continue 3 miles down the dirt road until you see the parking lot and bathroom on the left. Minimal cell service on the hike.

EVENT HOSTS:
Lane DeCost - 900 Miler - AT 2000 Miler 23 - SAR Team Volunteer
TBD