PEAC 1295 - Beginning Backpacking

Credits: 1
This course will introduce beginners to the basics of weekend backpacking so that they can pursue future trips with more confidence. Topics will include recommendation for conditioning, food/drink, clothing, footwear, basic equipment and emergency equipment. The following skills will be discussed and practiced during the trip: selecting clothing, food and equipment, packing a pack effectively and adjusting the pack for a proper fit, basic map reading, choosing a camp site and minimizing impact on the land, and protecting food and equipment from animals. The course will involve lecture/discussion sessions followed by a weekend trip, three days/two nights, in the local mountains.