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Step C: Free Class Trip!

This is where all the real learning occurs. We believe that when it comes to backpacking, personal experience is the best teacher. There are countless lessons available in nature that are applicable to both backpacking and everyday life. As Tutorial authors who invite you to join us for a free guided trip, we serve as facilitators for the learning experience, helping each student perfect the essential and advanced skills outlined in the tutorials. Each free trip is limited to a small group (4-7), including experienced guides.

Students and guides caravan and/or carpool from a predetermined meeting spot to the trailhead, detailed in each tutorial section. After a welcoming, gear/food check, and trip briefing, the group begins an overnight or multi-night adventure in the Appalachian Mountains (or other specially requested area). Along the way, guides employ in-field lessons on topics taylored for the group's level. For more information on trip instructional content, refer to the beginner, advanced, or thru-hike pages.

Free class trip locations that where we hope to see you include some of the most fantastic scenic and secluded areas in the southern Appalachians. We stress taking our time and enjoying a complete, unhurried experience with every level of backpacker. Our goal is to have fun backpacking and help share the skills and confidence needed for each student to take their outdoor experiences to the next level, even if it is their first!