KC Area Backpackers Annual Meet & Greet | 2025

KC Backpackers: A Gathering for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Are you an advancing beginner eager to build on your experience? A seasoned backpacker looking to meet others who share your passion? Or a thru-hiker wanting to connect between longer journeys?

This meetup—hosted by the Sierra Club—is a chance for backpackers in the KC area to swap stories, share knowledge, and make connections with others who enjoy getting out on the trails. In 2024 we held three of these sessions with a commitment to do at least one annually— this is that. We might have another session in the KC Northland this year, but nothing is scheduled yet—this could be the only one.

### What to Expect: Trail Edition

🔹 Arrival & Setup – Some of us will arrive early—check the comments for our shirt color and location. Exact spot depends on how crowded the place is, but we promise we won’t be hiding behind a tree.
🔹 Introductions & Icebreaker (Plus Sierra Club Leadership Opportunities!) – Swap trail tales, share future trek goals, and get acquainted with fellow backpackers. We’ll also introduce Sierra Club’s mission and how experienced hikers can help support local weekend backpacking trips in Missouri, Kansas, and Arkansas. Want in? Let us know!
🔹 Spread the Word to Beginner Backpackers! – This event is for seasoned trail wanderers, but if you know someone eager to get started, point them to the beginner training program advertised on Meetup. It’s how future thru-hikers are born!
🔹 Open Networking & Discussion – This part is free-range—float between conversations, swap advice, and make connections. Organizers will be drifting around, but attendees should steer the discussions.
🔹 Timing & Late Arrivals – We’ll be kicking things off promptly, and while we love a good dramatic entrance, we won’t rewind for latecomers. If you roll in after we've started, just slide into the conversation when it feels natural.
What to Bring: Any gear or props that help tell your story—maps, guidebooks, photos, trip itineraries, or just an excellent campfire tale.

If 'Backpacking' isn’t in your profile, that leaves an impression.

This isn't what we call an "outing" or trip in the Sierra Club. It is a gathering that begins and ends at the indicated place and time. It does not include carpooling, transportation, or transit to & from the meeting; each participant is personally responsible for all risks associated with this travel.