May 23, 2006
Dear Participants, I hope all of you are as excited about this trip as I am. Last weekend, I did an overnight camping trip as past of a class I took to become a Leave No Trace (LNT) trainer. It was so good to be outside in Nature and smell the pines. Luckily, the course ended just as it began to pour. Yes, the weather is still a big question mark. Right now, it looks like we can make it in to two trailheads and hike to beautiful lakes. The roads may be muddy, but passable. The hikes will probably be at least 6 miles round trip at around 7000'. There will be elevation gain and loss on trails that will probably be muddy and snowy in places. The stream crossings will be safe, but be prepared to get across by walking through the water, since the stepping-stones may be under water and the banks too wide for jumping. I highly recommend broken in, over the ankle, waterproofed hiking boots. You might want to bring your water shoes (not sandals) for stream crossings. What an adventure! Are you in good condition? I'd like to welcome our latest participant on the trip - Steve Bruckner from Virginia.
ROLES AND EXPECTATIONS Here is what I expect from you: Have fun!!! I also expect you to be courteous and flexible, to be in good condition, to be on time, to participate in the meal preparation and clean up chores, to act safely, and to have the appropriate gear. If you have anything you want to offer to the group such as music, knowledge of nature, photography or conservation issues to discuss, I welcome your contributions.
MEALS and LODGING There will be plenty of food, so you don't need to bring your own. However, if you do bring food, please plan on keeping it in your room since the refrigerator will be reserved for group food. Let's be prepared to practice conservation by using reusable containers for our lunches. Bring a cloth bag to carry your lunch in and a plastic container with a lid for your sandwich. You can also use a bandana for a napkin and your own mug for drinks at every meal. Here are our tentative sleeping arrangements.
Second Floor:
TENTATIVE SCHEDULE
TENTATIVE ITINERARY
Happy hiking,
Linda Conklin |