backpacking clubs open to beginers

nu2bpkng · 03-07-2004

I've never camped or backpacked before, other than day hikes in local state forests.
Can any on recomend a hiking group or club that will take a newbi to overnight or extended trips on the AT in the NY/NJ/PA/VA stretch of the trail?
Any suggestions are greatly appreciated in the way of types of gear to get.

EdK · 03-07-2004

You may want to check into the local chapter of the Sierra Club in your area. Not sure how it's done where you are, but here in southern Ca., different local chapters constantly have everything from day hikes of different skill levels/experience, to overnighters. See if they can provide you with the latest member newsletter containing events. Ed

nu2bpkng · 03-07-2004

Quote:

Originally Posted by EdK

You may want to check into the local chapter of the Sierra Club in your area. Not sure how it's done where you are, but here in southern Ca., different local chapters constantly have everything from day hikes of different skill levels/experience, to overnighters. See if they can provide you with the latest member newsletter containing events. Ed

Thanks for your response, and I'll check my local sierra clubs in the ny/nj area for more information

EdK · 03-07-2004

I apologize as I completely forgot about you question concerning gear. When it comes to gear when you are first getting into backpacking, or anything else for that matter, it's sort of a dilema. On one hand, you don't want to spend too much, because....what if you really don't like it. And on the other, if you spend too little, quality can be compromised in the areas of fit, comfort, durability, etc....making your experience miserable. So, what is usually recommended, is to beg, borrow and rent. Renting is sometimes a real good way to find out what works and what doesn't, especially in the areas of packs, tents and sleeping bags. Out of those, the pack will probably be the most critical in regards to comfort. If you have av REI, EMS or other reliable supplier close by, go in and talk to someone knowledgable. Have them properly it you for pack size, and then go from there. Now....if you're looking or recommendations as to brands, the field is wide open as there are many, many good companies selling real nice gear. But stick to the basics right off the bat. Talk to some knowledgable fitters, try it out and see if it hurts you...it shouldn't. I suppose I could go on and on, but see if this works or you. Good luck to you. Ed

brad nicholson · 03-08-2004

are you a student at a college or university? if so try the local outing club, most schools have one.

as for gear...try on as many packs as possible to get the right fit, price, size, etc. then look at where and what you want to do and use this as the screening criteria to select what sorts of equipment you should look at purchasing. ie..mostly spring/summer packing, go with a lighter sleeping bag. A good place to check for cheap gear if you are short of funds are yard sales - sometimes moms throw away some decent gear unbeknowingly

there are a wealth of books outthere as well. look at the local public library. try these for backpacking, THE COMPLETE WALKER IV by Colin Fletcher, THE BACKPACKER'S HANDBOOK by Rick Curtis. They should be a fine start.

nu2bpkng · 03-08-2004

Quote:

Originally Posted by EdK

I apologize as I completely forgot about you question concerning gear. When it comes to gear when you are first getting into backpacking, or anything else for that matter, it's sort of a dilema. On one hand, you don't want to spend too much, because....what if you really don't like it. And on the other, if you spend too little, quality can be compromised in the areas of fit, comfort, durability, etc....making your experience miserable. So, what is usually recommended, is to beg, borrow and rent. Renting is sometimes a real good way to find out what works and what doesn't, especially in the areas of packs, tents and sleeping bags. Out of those, the pack will probably be the most critical in regards to comfort. If you have av REI, EMS or other reliable supplier close by, go in and talk to someone knowledgable. Have them properly it you for pack size, and then go from there. Now....if you're looking or recommendations as to brands, the field is wide open as there are many, many good companies selling real nice gear. But stick to the basics right off the bat. Talk to some knowledgable fitters, try it out and see if it hurts you...it shouldn't. I suppose I could go on and on, but see if this works or you. Good luck to you. Ed

Thanks for your help.I'll be looking into different outdoor shops and local hiking clubs soon before I take some time off to try some overnight hiking/backpacking first, then i'll see how it goes from there.

nu2bpkng · 03-08-2004

thanks brad

brad nicholson · 03-09-2004

...on what you end up doing. it is always good to get in with a club or group but some of the best experiences are alone. not necessarily the best solution when you are starting but i often find that i am riding my bikes and trekking along all by my lonesome.
of course when you get on the trail you more often than not meet folks and most are like the people here ...willing to help and pleased to meet people new to the sport.

JohnK · 03-12-2004

out here on the East coast (I live in NJ) is the AMC - regional chapters run just what you are looking for, and as you progress, you can go on more challenging trips. Check out www.outdoors.org!

Quote:

Originally Posted by nu2bpkng

I've never camped or backpacked before, other than day hikes in local state forests.
Can any on recomend a hiking group or club that will take a newbi to overnight or extended trips on the AT in the NY/NJ/PA/VA stretch of the trail?
Any suggestions are greatly appreciated in the way of types of gear to get.