Backpacking - Why...?

Backpacking – Why Leave a Perfectly Good Home to Sleep In the Woods?

An article by Joe DeMott published in "Trails & Waves", News from the New York - North Jersey Chapter of the Appalachian Mountain Club, Vol 28, Issue2, Summer 2006

A wise old saying goes “ never own anything you cannot carry on your back” Guess that’s not really a possibility for most of us. But, the feeling of leaving home, car, TV, cell phone, e-mail, cappuccino maker and all the other things we call civilization and hitting the trail with everything you need on your back is just the beginning of the freedom and adventure you can experience while backpacking. Ask any die-hard AMC backpacker what they love about backpacking and you are likely to get many answers. For some backpacking is the freedom of venturing into the wilderness with everything you need on your back, the adventure of exploring remote forest trails far from the crowd, or the inspiration of immersing yourself in the quiet beauty of nature. For others it’s the exhilaration of “peak bagging” the highest mountain summits, the challenge of winter backpacking or the accomplishment of through hiking the Appalachian Trail. Still, many enjoy camping in backwoods sites where few have been, cooking delicious gourmet trail meals and the camaraderie of jokes and stories around the campfire. For most, I am sure it’s the adventure of all the above that makes each backpack a unique experience.

If you already enjoy day hiking, backpacking can add new dimensions to your hiking experience. Exploring in smaller groups with a maximum of ten people provides a better chance to experience nature, encounter wildlife and get to know the people on your trip. An extended stay on the trail gives you a deeper connection with nature. There is nothing quite like camping in a moonlit forest or under a brilliant starry sky with the sound of a flowing stream to serenade you to sleep. It’s an experience! Another great thing about backpacking is you can travel further into the wilderness and see places that would not accessible on a day hike. You can get a chance to explore many impressive peaks, waterfalls, old growth forests and secluded lakes away from crowded day hiking trails. There are many beautiful backwoods areas within a days hike in the Catskills or Adirondacks where there are no signs of development. It’s an adventure to explore more remote wilderness areas that few people get to see.

Getting started in backpacking is easy. The AMC Backpacking Committee has a series of instructional seminars, and trips designed for people who want to try backpacking for the first time. The Chapter web site has a schedule of events with info on gear lists, minimum impact camping and links to backpacking sites. Just in case you’ve heard horror stories about feeling like a pack mule and having to lug a 50 lb pack around there’s good news. Ultra-light equipment designs have lightened the load eliminating a lot of the torture of yester-years. Most lightweight backpackers carry overnight packs in the 20-25 lb range. You can too by choosing the right gear. You do not need to break the bank to get started. If you are a day hiker you probably have some of the necessary clothing and gear. You can borrow or rent the extra gear you may need to try your first trip. On a group trip, sharing gear is also an option. AMC leaders are experienced backpackers who know the trails well and can make sure everyone has a safe and enjoyable trip. Going on a club trip is a great way to learn backpacking. Beginners will find a supportive, fun and safe environment. The friends you will meet on AMC trips are fun people from all walks of life who share a passion for outdoor adventures. So come on out and hit the trail with us for a weekend of adventure, challenge, experiencing nature and meeting interesting people.

John Muir expressed the allure of nature well:

“Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves.”

But, in addition to these philosophical observations the most important reason for backpacking is: Backpacking is fun! Hope we see you on the trail!