Cumberland Mountain State Park

Description: Women's Introduction to Backpacking

Location: Cumberland Mountain State Park

Women’s Introduction to Backpacking

Cumberland Mountain State Park

Saturday, July 26 – Sunday, July 27, 2025

• Start Time: Saturday at 2:00 PM (Arrive by 1:45 PM)
• Return Time: Sunday by 10:00 AM
• Meeting Location: Boat Dock Parking Lot
• Cost: $50 per participant
• Registration Deadline: Wednesday, July 23, 2025

Program Overview:

Ready to take your first steps into the world of backpacking? Or maybe you’re looking to reconnect with nature, test out new gear, or simply enjoy the trail with other outdoor women? This beginner-friendly overnight experience at Cumberland Mountain State Park is designed to empower women through outdoor skills, confidence-building, and community, all while exploring one of Tennessee’s most scenic natural landscapes.

Led by experienced instructors Ranger Kayce King, Jewell West, and Abby Harris, this program offers a hands-on introduction to backpacking in a supportive environment. Participants will hike one mile with their gear into a backcountry campsite, set up camp, and then have the option to embark on a lightweight 3-mile day hike. The trail includes shallow creek crossings, rocks, and tree roots, with uneven terrain but no steep climbs—rated as moderate difficulty.

On Sunday morning, the group will pack up camp and hike one mile back out, returning to the Boat Dock Parking Lot by 10:00 AM, allowing time to reflect and decompress after the journey.

What to Expect:

• Instruction in essential backpacking skills, including packing, navigation, camp setup, trail safety, and Leave No Trace principles
• Group discussions around camp focusing on personal growth, trail etiquette, and environmental stewardship
• Optional interpretive topics such as the history and importance of backpacking, local wildlife and plant identification, and safe campfire building
• Opportunities to connect with like-minded women in an encouraging, nature-rich setting

What to Bring:

Participants must bring their own backpacking gear, food, and water. A recommended gear checklist will be provided upon registration to help guide preparation.

A limited number of tents, backpacks, sleeping pads, and sleeping bags are available to borrow on a first-come, first-served basis. If you would like to request gear, please contact the program host as soon as possible.

We recommend arriving by 1:45 PM on Saturday to review gear with the instructors and make final preparations before departure. This will also be the last opportunity to use a full restroom facility.

Participant Requirements:

This program involves physical activity and remote camping. For safety and group cohesion, participants must be able to:

• Carry their own backpacking gear
• Navigate shallow creek beds, rocky areas, and uneven terrain
• Stay overnight in a backcountry setting with limited amenities

In Case of Severe Weather:

If conditions such as heavy rain, lightning, or high winds are expected, the event will be rescheduled for a later date in August. A final weather decision will be made by Friday, July 25, and participants will be notified by phone.

Program Objectives:

1. Learn and apply 3+ fundamental backpacking skills
2. Demonstrate the ability to set up and break down camp
3. Reflect on personal growth in a supportive group setting

This experience is more than an introduction to backpacking—it’s a chance to connect with nature, with others, and with your own inner strength. Join us for an unforgettable weekend outdoors!

Event Document:   Essential Eligible Criteria