Turn that curiosity into knowledge with a one night trip into the woods. Learn everything about the exciting and challenging sport of backpacking while meeting other people. On this trip, you will learn all the steps needed to become a proficient backpacker, find out what to pack and not to pack, how to pack and how to wear your pack for the most comfort. You'll learn how to use the best gear and what to do in the event that things don't go as planned, if the weather changes or your gear doesn't work well. You'll learn how to identify wild plants, which ones are edible and poisonous, how to cure headaches and poison ivy, and how to survive in case of emergency. We'll start with a brief class on backpacking and apply it in real life.

Need a little time out from your daily life? Immerse yourself in the calming embrace of nature as your cares drop off like leaves in autumn. Leave your stress behind as you challenge yourself to an adventure.On these trips, you will learn the backpacking secrets of experienced guides, the proper gear to bring, the right way to wear a pack, unlock the mysteries of pain free long distance hiking and more. Along the way, learn about wild plants and their medicinal and edible uses, taste wild foods and teas, learn how to be safe in the wilderness, what to do if lost in the woods, and how to be comfortable while sleeping in the outdoors. This is a time to celebrate your body, to push your limits and discover your hidden strengths. But don't worry, we'll ease into the trip, taking plenty of time for photos and rest, and help you to rediscover your inner kid through games, journaling, laughter and camaraderie. Come to this prepared to make friends, learn about yourself and reconnect with nature.

Been backpacking for years, but are looking to hone your skills and learn more about nature? New to backpacking but want to learn while physically testing yourself? These two night trips are designed to challenge you while leaving you refreshed and ready for the "real world." Learn the backpacking secrets of experienced guides, the right way to wear a pack, how to unlock the mysteries of pain free long distance hiking, and more. Along the way, you will learn about plants and their uses, animals and their habits, how to travel safetly through the wilderness, and what to do if things go wrong. These trips will take you deeper into the backcountry than any one night trip, truly allowing you to get away from the stresses of everyday life. Explore old growth forests, pristine streams, incredible history, a sea of mountains and plants found only here and nowhere else on earth. We may even spot the Smoky Mountain icon, the black bear. Caution, backpacking side effects include: feeling ackward without a backpack, self confidence and a hunger to explore more wilderness!

This trip is rated Vigorous (4) as we plan to hike for 6-10 hours per day most days on steep, rocky, sometimes exposed terrain, gaining and/or losing up to just over 3,000 feet in elevation some days.

Please see REI Adventures for more details and to book.