Join us for a special opportunity for dads and their sons to enjoy a two-day, one-night backpacking adventure together on Friday, April 28, through Saturday, April 29! This trip will be at a slower place and a shorter distance to make it possible younger boys (ages 5+) to join us as well. This adventure will be on the Skyway Trail which is in Talladega National Forest in east Alabama. It is very close to Mount Cheaha, the highest point in Alabama.
We will enjoy exploring God's creation on a short hike of about 4 miles split over two days, camping at a large group camp site along a big creek. The camp site offers plenty of opportunities to cool off and play in the creek, so be sure to pack a towel and some extra clothes/sandals that you don’t mind getting wet. On Saturday, we will pack up camp and hike back up to the trailhead, going uphill for a total elevation gain of about 600 feet. We will go at a pace that is comfortable for younger feet and take plenty of breaks. Along the way we will talk about God and His care for us and His creation. We even will roast hot dogs and marshmallows, and tell stories by the campfire at night.
TRIP DETAILS
SCHEDULE - We will meet at Gateway at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, April 28, and drive to the trailhead which is about two hours away. We will work out riding arrangements in personal cars before the trip. Please pack a lunch that you can eat on the way there. On Saturday, we will return to Gateway by late afternoon. We will stop at a fast-food restaurant to eat lunch together on the way home.
AGE - The trip is open to elementary age boys, youth group teens, and their dads. Because of the limited space and the nature of the hike, the minimum age to participate is 5. Space is limited to 20 people, and advance registration is required (see below). We will have a men’s backpacking trip open to a larger age range in the fall.
COST - The cost is $10 per family to help with group dinner expenses.
LOANER GEAR - A limited number of adult backpacks, compact sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and possibly tents are available to borrow if you do not have your own. There also may be some kid's backpacks available to borrow. Please contact Mike Presley if you need to borrow gear.
REQUIRED PRE-TRIP MEETING - About one week prior to the trip, we will have a mandatory pre-trip meeting. At this meeting, which should last about an hour, we will review important safety and logistics details, the trip plan, and the gear/packing list. This also is the opportunity for you to get your loaner items. Sons joining their fathers for this adventure need to attend as well.
REGISTRATION
Advanced registration is required. The deadline to register is Sunday, April 24.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
If you have any questions, please contact Mike Presley.