Shakedown and Training Hike: Government Canyon

We hike at a moderate pace, about 26-28 minutes per mile., not overly strenuous. The weather forecast shows 13% chance of rain. I will stay in touch with the park and cancel the hike Saturday afternoon if the trails are projected to close.
You have the option of doing this as a training hike bringing only a day pack with snacks and water. You will have the option of cutting the hike short (there is an option to only hike 6 miles) and not having to do the full 10 miles if you are not up to the full distance.

We will be adding a few more overnight hikes for the rest of the year. This training hike/qualifying hike will be an opportunity to qualify for these longer, overnight hikes. In order for this to count as a qualifying hike please ensure you bring a fully loaded backpack with enough food for 4 days. Given that we will often backpack in high desert, please also bring the equivalent of 2 liters of water. I will bring a scale to weight your packs. Your pack should weigh between 25 (ultra-light gear) and 30/35 pounds. Qualifiers will need to complete 10 miles.

Please bring lots of water and please do use sunblock. This hike is open to both experienced backpackers wanting a training opportunity and newer backpackers looking to qualify for multi-day backpacking trips. If you plan on going on this hike please reserve your permit online as soon as possible. It is no longer required but still highly recommended to get a day use permit online prior to coming to the park or else you risk being shut out of the park. The group will be limited to ten individuals.

If you do not yet have all your gear please do not let this keep you from participating. You can always add place holder items in your backpack to meet the weight requirement for a qualifying hike.

The hike will also be a great opportunity to discus future trips.

Please message me if you have any questions.