The week’s schedule looks like this:
Day 1: BBC Cooperation Course
Focused on building unity amongst your newly formed team. You’ll participate in a number of low ropes challenges designed to build cooperation and unity. You will also go through training for your overnight backpacking trip by learning the basics of wilderness survival, backpacking, and outdoor living.
Day 2-4: Vermont Long Trail
Experience creation first-hand by enjoying a 3 day/2 night backpacking trip. Not for the faint of heart! Campers will practice their outdoor living skills as experienced guides help you cook food over a fire or camp stove, purify water, and set up shelter. The beautiful Long Trail is the perfect place to set aside distractions and experience the wonder of nature.
Day 5: River Tubing (weather permitting)
Enjoy a well-deserved break by tubing down the river! Your group gets to relax and celebrate their accomplishments from this past week.
Packing List
In addition to the typical
summer packing list, there are some must-haves for this trip. If you don’t send your child with these items, you will need to bring them
on Monday or come pick up your camper
on Monday before the group leaves for the 3-day backpacking trip.
Must Haves:
– Sturdy
Hiking Boots or Shoes: You want something that fits your foot well! That’s the most important part. We prefer shoes with Goretex but they are typically more expensive and also make your feet sweat. Shoes without Goretex will not keep the water out as well but some get close.
–
Sleeping Bag (packs small): You are looking for a temp rating of 30 or 40 degrees for spring, summer and fall camping. It should be fairly light and packable.
–
Back Pack-For a multiple night trip you should select a bag that has 40 liters or more in volume.
– Sleeping Mat (also packs small)
– Rain Jacket
– A few layers. Think in terms of three. A wicking layer against your skin, something warmer plus your jacket. You should have at least 2 base layers. Those could be wool or polyester tshirts, for example. The warmer layer could be a fleece.
– 2 Water Bottles (plan to have about 64 oz. in two or three separate containers)
You do not need to go get new gear for this trip. If you already have sturdy walking shoes you don’t need to purchase boots. Boots can aid in supporting the ankle and lessen the likelihood of a sprained ankle. If you have a sleeping bag that works well you do not need to purchase a new one. If you need gear but don’t want to buy new, start by asking friends and family if they have gear to lend.
Whatever you do, you should put together your gear two weeks before coming to camp. That will allow you time to see if you need anything new. Please remember that campers will be asked to carry all of their gear in and on their backpacks!
*Due to the challenge of this trip, your child may not be allowed to participate if he/she has been known to have physical fitness limitations or inappropriate behavioral/relational tendencies. If you are new to Bethany Birches and your child meets this description please reach out to the Program Director by calling the office (802-672-5220).
