City of Rocks National Preserve Backpack (2 nights, level 2)

# PLEASE READ CAREFULLY

You must sign up for the mandatory pre-trip meeting to be included on this trip.

## Event Description

Due to the Independence Lakes fire closure, we have changed destinations and will instead be exploring the spectacular City of Rocks National Reserve.
The City of Rocks is famous for its towering granite spires and monoliths, some reaching the equivalent of 60 stories high. Geologists estimate that some of the oldest granite formations in the area are more than 2.5 billion years old. Join us for a two-night, three-day adventure in one of Idaho's most unique landscapes.
Checkout my Tik Tok video from last year
https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTBAQnFuM/

## Backpacking Route

We will hike the Indian Grove Trail from the Emery Creek Picnic Area to the Indian Grove Campsite.
The campsite is a designated horse camp and includes:

• Picnic table
• Fire ring
• Firewood (when available)
• Grassy tent sites

Distance: 2.4 miles each way (4.8 miles round trip)
The trail climbs gradually during the first mile before leveling out for the remainder of the hike.

### Route Information

Check out the AllTrails route here:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/idaho/indian-grove?u=i&sh=3zxf7n

## What Is a Level 2 Backpack?

### Physical Ability Standard (Good)

You exercise for at least one hour, two or more times per week, or approximately two hours per week total.
You are comfortable:

• Hiking up to 8 miles in a day on wilderness trails with a lightweight daypack.
• Hiking up to 5 miles in a day with a backpack weighing up to 35 pounds.

### Experience Level (Advanced Beginner)

These trips are designed for members who have some backpacking experience.
You are:

• Learning how to use your gear efficiently.
• Learning how to eat, sleep, and camp comfortably in the backcountry.
• Comfortable hiking and camping in light wind and rain.
• Comfortable hiking in the dark for short periods when necessary.
• Carrying a base weight that may be heavier than that of experienced backpackers.

### Trail Description

There will be moderate elevation gain but no significant hazards or navigation challenges.
Participants should be comfortable with:

• Backpacking trips of up to 10 miles round trip.
• Daily backpacking distances of approximately 5 miles.
• Camping in remote settings.

Examples of similar Level 2 trips include:

• Jenny Lake
• Boulder Lake to Rapid Lake
• City of Rocks / Indian Grove

## Tentative Itinerary

### Friday:

Meet at the King Hill pull out at 9 am (~1 hour 15 minutes from Boise). I may meet you there or have a designee. Directions from Boise:

1. Head towards Glens Ferry/Twin Falls (I 84)
2. Take exit 129. Cross the bridge and make an immediate right onto East Allen Road. There is a pull out there were we will meet.
3. Google Maps

Carpool to City of Rocks.
Window Arch and Window Rock hike then Backpack to base camp.

### Saturday

Day hike : City of Rocks Loop

### Sunday

Breakfast, short hike (South Fork Circle Creek to Stairways Loop) , debrief, possibly lunch in Albion, drive home.

## What to Bring

Please refer to the Idaho Hikers & Backpackers gear checklist.

We will review gear requirements and discuss any trip-specific recommendations during the mandatory pre-trip meeting.

## Policies

• Guests must RSVP through Meetup and officially join the event.
• Please do not bring alcohol or illegal drugs.
• No firearms or weapons are permitted on group events.
• Dogs must be on a leash at all times.
• Follow Leave No Trace principles at all times

I understand that during my participation in this Outing, I may be exposed to risks and hazards, foreseen or unforeseen, which are inherent and cannot be eliminated without diminishing the Outing.
These inherent risks include, but are not limited to, the dangers of serious personal injury, property damage, and death (“Injuries and Damages”) from exposure to the hazards of travel, location, and weather.
I agree that the Organizer (s) has not tried to contradict or minimize my understanding of these risks. I know that Injuries and Damages can occur by natural causes or activities of other persons, animals, trip members, trip leaders or third parties, either as a result of negligence or because of other reasons. I understand that risks of such Injuries are involved in adventure travel such as this Outing and I accept that I must exercise extra care for my own person and for others around me in the face of such hazards.
I understand that on this Outing there may not be rescue or medical facilities or expertise necessary to deal with the Injuries to which I may be exposed.
To the fullest extent allowed by law, I agree to WAIVE, DISCHARGE CLAIMS, AND RELEASE FROM LIABILITY the Organizer from any and all liability on account of, or in any way resulting from Injuries and Damages, even if caused by the negligence of the Organizer or other participants in any way connected with this Outing. I further agree to HOLD HARMLESS the Organizer (s) from any claims, losses, Injuries and Damages caused by my own negligence while a participant on the Outing.
I understand and intend that this assumption of risk and release is binding upon my heirs, executors, administrators and assigns. I have read the Outing description and this Release of Liability in its entirety and I freely and voluntarily assume all risks of such Injuries and notwithstanding such risks, I agree to participate in the Outing. I have read, I understand, and I agree to this Release of Liability.