Backpacking Overnight Adventure - 2 days

Carver's Gap Roan Mountain

FROM:$250.00

Months of Operation:

March-November

Duration:

2 Days

Begins:

9:00 AM

Age Requirements:

Age 8+

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Overview & Highlights

This is for you if: You want a fun and memorable guided adventure backpacking on one of the most stunning sections of the entire Appalachian Trail.

Have you ever looked up at the mountains and wondered what it might be like to journey across each one, sleeping by a mountain stream and carrying everything you need in a backpack?

Join NOLI for our Backpacking Overnight Adventure! Experience a guided backpacking trip, led by our experienced NOLI backpacking instructors, along one or more of the many fantastic trails in the beautiful Appalachian Highlands region. This is an excellent opportunity for those who are new to backpacking and looking for a supportive environment to venture out for the first time as well as experienced hikers who want to learn new tips and tricks or just enjoy the companionship of a small-group adventure.

We'll meet the morning of the first day for introductions and to make sure everyone is properly outfitted and packed, and then embark on our journey. Our pace will be carefully tailored to the group, and we will take regular breaks to rest and periodically learn new skills. After our first day of hiking, we'll set up camp, make dinner and settle in for the evening. As night falls, we'll relax by a fire (conditions permitting), recount the day and enjoy good company. Or maybe you'd prefer to watch the stars gradually make their appearance in peaceful silence - it's your call. Our instructors will be happy to answer any backpacking, hiking or general outdoor questions you may have. The next morning we'll break camp and continue on our journey before eventually making our way out to wrap up our overnight backpacking adventure with new memories and new friends.

Primary routes include:

The world-famous Appalachian Trail from Carver's Gap to Hwy 19E. This stunning section of the AT was rated by Backpacker Magazine as the best hike in Tennessee and offers stunning panoramic views along much of its length. Total distance is approximately 16 miles (~5-10 miles each day) with 2400' of elevation gain.
The AT from Chestoa Recreation Area near Erwin, Tennessee to Beauty Spot on Unaka Mountain. This beautiful section of the AT will take us approximately 13 miles total, averaging 4-8 miles and ascending between 1100-2600' per day, and offers some of the best long-range views in the entire region. This trip is rated as moderate.

Spots are limited to 8 in order to minimize our footprint so be sure to register early to reserve your spot. Minimum age is 8. Route length and direction of travel may be modified at instructor's discretion to best accommodate the group.

Backpack, tent, sleeping pad, sleeping bag and sleeping bag liner (laundered prior to use) are provided, although participants are welcome to bring their own if they have them. Participants will also have access to cooking stoves and water filters. A full packing list will be provided to help you prepare. Age 10+.

Highlights:

A 2 day/1 night backpacking adventure on the world-famous Appalachian Trail
Guiding and educating by an accomplished backpacking instructor
Beautiful views and lush green mountains
Comradery
A supportive learning environment

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Additional Information

What to Expect
- Backpacking overview
- Trip planning considerations
- Safety considerations
- What to pack
- Gear selection considerations
- Organizing and packing your gear
- Choosing routes and campsites
- Setting up camp
- Meal planning and camp cooking suggestions
- Leave No Trace
- 10-16 mile backpacking trip over two days
- Overnight primitive camping (no facilities)
- Comaraderie
- FUN!
Prerequisites
- Be in good health and fitness
- Be able to safely carry a pack weighing 30 pounds 10-16 miles over varied terrain over two days
- Possess a level of health and fitness commensurate with 45-60 mins of backpacking at a time without stopping
- Dress appropriately for the conditions
- Age 10+ (youth under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian)
Includes
- Guiding/education
- Backpack, tent, sleeping pad and sleeping bag with liner (participants are welcome to bring their own if they have them)
What to Bring

Clothing suitable for the conditions, hiking shoes, rain jacket, small collapsible camp chair such as a Helinox (optional, we have a few loaners on a first come basis), food (2 lunches, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast, snacks; suggestions will be provided), camp stove (optional, instructors have stoves to share as needed), headlamp, small packable towel, personal hygiene items including biodegradable toilet paper, personal medications (as needed) and waterproof bag to put everything in. A full packing list will be provided by your instructor in a separate email to help you prepare.
Meeting Location

Meeting location depends on backpacking trip location. We will meet at either the AT trailhead at Carver's Gap or the AT trailhead near Chestoa Recreation Area on your right as soon as you turn onto Jones Branch Rd. Directions will be sent out separately.
Additional Information

Meals are the responsibility of participants. We will provide you with a packing list to help you prepare, including food suggestions that pack well. There are no bathrooms, showers or running water where we will be camping. This is an alcohol-free event.
Testimonials

"Had a blast this past weekend on the backpacking overnight adventure with NOLI! I've had some experience with backpacking but never in 20 degree temperatures, so I was a little nervous. Our trail guide, Minta, was super knowledgeable on equipment and safety and put my fears at ease. She shared tons of great tips along the adventure and helped to build my confidence in taking on the trail. I didn't only learn a lot, I also had a great time and left feeling inspired. It is evident to me that the team at NOLI is all about safety, education and sharing their love for the great outdoors. I'll definitely be coming back for more classes!"

~ Cortney R.

Policies & Agreements

Terms and conditions

I certify that all registrants meet course prerequisites as defined in the course description, meet the minimum age requirements and do not have any medical conditions or limitations that would prevent their ability to safely participate in the activity.
Cancellation policy

NOLI activities go rain or shine. If you cancel or decrease the number of participants in your party the following applies:

Cancellations 30 or more days prior to your activity will receive a full refund.
Cancellations 14-29 days prior to the activity date will receive a full reservation booking voucher.
Cancellations 0-13 days prior to the activity date are not extended a refund or voucher.
No Shows are not extended a refund or voucher.