Trip - Beginner's Bootcamp Lapham Peak

Meeting Description: This trip will introduce new people to backpacking through an overnight weekend trip that is relatively close to Chicago. This trip will help beginners become familiar with the skills and gear required to have a fun and safe experience backpacking. If you are new to backpacking you are required to complete a beginner bootcamp before you can attend other group trips.

Expectations of participants:
All participants should be in good health and be physically fit. Backpacking is a strenuous cardiovascular exercise. All participants are responsible for obtaining the necessary gear to attend this trip. A suggested gear list may be found here. All participants must be in communication with the organizers, failure to respond to e-mails for organizers may result in being removed from the trip.

Itinerary for trip:
Saturday, May 17:
Everyone arrives at park between 11:30 and noon.
Shake Down. Organizers will go through everyone?s pack instructing on what gear is needed and how to load and adjust packs.
Hike around 6 miles to camp, practicing good hiking technique.
At camp, learn about camp skills such as site selection, making camp, etc.

Sunday, May 18:
Hike 4 miles back to cars.
Return to Chicago.

Organizers:
Will help make car pool arrangements, within reason, so that everyone may attend. They will plan the route of the trip, coordinate any needed logistics, and facilitate any details of the trip related to requirements of the park location. For this trip organizers will assist participants in learning about backpacking by providing knowledgeable assistance in the gear and skills necessary to backpack. Organizers are not, however, guides or cruise directors

Fees: There will be some nominal fees for organizing costs, reservation expenses, and parking.

All participants must have a completed waiver form on file before participating.

*Please do not sign up for this bootcamp if you have participated in a previous bootcamp or have significant previous experience backpacking. These trips are for absolute beginners only*

The details for this trip, including location, may change as trip plans become more complete.