Any UVM Wilderness Trek Alumni Out There?

I did my post above about two weeks ago and my fears have been confirmed…Carrying 50+ pounds on the Long Trail convinced everyone who's ever gone on a Wilderness Trek program that backpacking isn't for them.

Bummer. I know I'm going to have some "discussions" with the Trek leaders as they go through Katie's gear and I explain the differences between what she's carrying and what was on the list of required gear.

Good luck with those discussions! I'm a UVM alumni, but didn't go on the Wilderness Trek program, so I can't help you there. That is where I got into backpacking though and had a similar experience on my first trip during my sophomore year. I didn't end up trying again until 2 years later ;) Fortunately, it sounds like your daughter already enjoys backpacking and I think she'll have a great time in Burlington….as long has she doesn't mind the long winters. It's a fun town for sure. Now that you've got me thinking about it, I need to go back for a visit sometime soon.