Welcome to Backpacking 101, where every experience level is not only welcome but encouraged. Whether you’re here for the first time, eager to learn the basics, or returning for your 100th adventure, just to enjoy the journey, we’re thrilled to embark on this experience with all of you.
Gather - Inspire - Empower
Gather - Inspire - Empower
Gather - Inspire - Empower Gather - Inspire - Empower
Kick off Women’s Outdoor Weekend with this immersive thru-hike course designed for beginner backpackers. Led by an experienced backpacker, this hands-on experience will cover the essentials of backpacking: what to pack, what to avoid, safety tips, and how to prepare for your own adventures on the trail.
Participants must bring their own gear and supplies, as this course is designed to simulate a real backpacking experience. However, if you need any gear we have a Google Form below to submit a request to borrow items from the Palmetto Trail.
Hike Agenda
10:30 - 11:00 Meet at Gaines Lodge
11:00-12:00 Shakedown and make Backcountry dinner for the evening meal.
12:00-12:30 Lunch at Gaines Lodge.
12:30 - Shuttle to trailhead
1:00-4:30 - Hike (6 miles)
Set-up tents, etc.
5:20 Sunset
6:00 - Wake-up, pack, coffee and hike when group is ready.
7:00 Sunrise with 2 mile hike out to pick-up spot.
8:00 - Breakfast at Gaines Lodge
9:00. - First Session
The Hike
The Eastatoe Passage is part of the Jocassee Gorges Wilderness Area, described by National Geographic as a “destination of a lifetime.” The trail parallels Eastatoe Creek for some of its length, providing a delightful soundtrack to your hike. The Passage also includes a boardwalk above a waterfall on a small feeder creek. In addition to the creek, the trail traverses wooded mountain gorges with beautiful hardwoods and wildflowers.
Eastatoe Passage provides public access for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching in the picturesque natural wonderland of the Eastatoe Creek watershed upstream from Duke Energy’s Lake Keowee.
ADVENTURE TAKES PREPARATION
Your backpacking guide has crafted a thoughtful training program to ensure hikers are fully prepared for the journey ahead. You can find the details below.
PACKING LIST
If you’re missing any gear for this trip, we may be able to lend it to you. Our goal is to make this workshop accessible to beginners without the burden of buying extra equipment. Please fill out the Gear Request Form so we can prepare and ensure everything runs smoothly. Thank you!
BACKPACKING MEAL
Before departure, the group will be making this basil pesto couscous to prep for dinner on Thursday night. This is a cheap backcountry food you can make a home without a dehydrator! All ingredients will be provided.
