Backpack Highland Trail 1st Loop - Algonquin (5/10/2019)

Many TOC members have asked me to run an easier backpacking event, an event that does not require previous backpacking experience. This is such an event! It's perfect for getting into backpacking and practicing key backpacking skills.

So signup preference will be given to members without prior backpacking experience. You must be a strong day hiker, with at least 5 D4 or D5 hikes under your belt. You must also be committed to preparing for this trip (planning and packing for backpacking events takes time!) and attending the mandatory pre-trip meeting (details below).

We will depart from Toronto Friday afternoon and camp overnight at the Mew Lake campground in Algonquin Park. On Saturday morning we will head out to the Highland backpacking trail.

We will spend Saturday and Sunday backpacking the 1st loop on the trail. Total distance is about 19km. We will return to Toronto late on Sunday evening.

Please review the following very carefully to avoid disappointment:

1. We will be hiking through Ontario backcountry in conditions that can be dangerous. As a result, there will be an extreme and continuous focus on safety.
2. Walking will proceed at the speed of the slowest member. This is a team effort. It is not a chase-the-leader exercise that you may be accustomed to from day hikes or perhaps even other backcountry experiences. Why? See #1.
3. It up to you to procure all the necessary gear for this event. Individual and group gear will be discussed at the pre-trip meeting. There will be a gear inspection at the point of departure. Only those individuals who have the necessary gear will be allowed to depart. Why are we being so strict? See #1.
4. During the trip everyone is expected to follow the organizer`s safety instructions. Failure to follow safety instructions will result in disqualification from this and possibly future events. See #1.
5. Note the early departure time. There is little daylight available and we would like to get as much sleep as possible on Friday night. It's up to you to escape the corporate world/school/family early enough to make it to the carpool on time.
6. I drive an electric car (EV) and travel a bit slower than most gasoline cars. We will stop to charge 1-2 times on the way. We will try to combine these charging stops with meal breaks. EV travel up north is still in its early-adopter stage, so please be prepared for possible delays!
7. There will be a mandatory pre-trip meeting at 6:30pm on May 2nd. The location is Bread & Roses Bakery Cafe at Bayview Village. You must attend to participate in the event.
8. Algonquin Park has a limit of 6 people per site at a car campground and 3 tents per site in the backcountry. So we will target a total of 6 members in this event.