June 3, 2026
First Timer Guides · Part 3Ready to take the next step beyond day hikes? Backpacking combines the skills you've learned from hiking and camping into one of the most rewarding outdoor experiences possible. This guide covers how to know when you're ready, the essential gear you'll need, how to manage pack weight, and how to plan a safe and successful first overnight trip into the backcountry. With the right preparation, your first backpacking adventure can be the beginning of a lifetime of wilderness exploration.
Read more →May 9, 2026
First Timer Guides · Part 2Your first night camping doesn’t have to feel intimidating. This beginner-friendly guide walks new scouts and families through everything they need for a successful first campout — from choosing the right campground and packing essential gear to building a safe campfire, sleeping comfortably outdoors, and handling those unfamiliar nighttime sounds with confidence.
Read more →April 29, 2026
First Timer Guides · Part 1The whole point of your first hike isn't to conquer anything — it's to enjoy it enough to want a second one. Keep it short, two to four miles, on a well-marked easy trail close to home. You don't need fancy gear to get started: a full water bottle, a small first aid kit, a whistle, a flashlight, sun protection, and some trail snacks are all it takes.
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