some questions from a newbie

“I am pretty much a newbie. I have long wanted to get into backpacking but I don't have many outlets for learning. I really want to go on trips but I am unsure if people would be willing to take someone who doesn't have much knowledge. I was hoping I could get some advice concerning all of this. I know it will probably be alot to take in, but I am very eager to learn and experience the outdoors the way it was intended.”

“I noticed you're in Tenn. If you are in Nashville check out Cumberland Transit. They do a beginner's backpacking trip. If not check your local gear stores and see what they have to offer

http://www.cumberlandtransit.com/event.asp?SID=1&Page=2&ev_key=127”

“keep your eye on these threads and I'll bet you'll see a hike in your area you could join. if you want to learn most people will be glad to give you some halfbaked advice.”

“Depending on background...there are places like Boy Scouts that can actually help, if you find a good unit”

“Go solo. report back here.”

“Midway I'm also fairly new to backpacking. I've been on several trips from this site and have found everyone to be very helpfull. I look on the trip page and choose one with mileage I think I can handle and then try to keep up. Try to keep your pack weight to no more than 1/4 your body weight and pack some ibuprofen for sore joints and muscles. Get out and enjoy the trail you'll be glad you did.”

“Welcome aboard!

There is a great hike scheduled for next weekend for a 8 mile hike in southern Indiana on the Adena Trail.

http://www.thebackpacker.com/trips/trip/864.php

Check out the link above for trip details.

If you are interested, and have the weekend off, come out. This is a perfect trip for a newbie.

e-mail me:

backpakn2@sbcglobal.net

I can hook you up with any extra gear you may need.”

“that sounds like a lot of fun but i live in TN :\”

“Hey go pick up an issue of Backpacker magazine. You can learn a lot...or better yet, get a subscription. Also, try to find someone else interested in going hiking and check out Mt. Rogers (it's on the boarder between VA and TN. Its awesome up there. Check out the Grayson HIghlands web site). I dunno where in TN u live, but there are Appalachain trail heads all over the place down there. I went to college around Bristol. So most of my knowledge of the area comes from thre. Also, you can go to the Smokies. Pick up a book about the trails and a map or visit their website for info. I'd proly just day hike in the Smokies, at least until you get some experience with backpacking. The Smokies have bears and wild boars and camping at shelters is a must...”

“Midway, where do you go to college? I went to King.”

“It's not that far.”

“i go to cumberland college in williamsburg KY but im from Clinton”