Preparing for your first backpacking trip.

Preparing for Your First Guided Backpacking Trip with Cimarron Wild Adventures

Embarking on your first guided backpacking trip with Cimarron Wild Adventures is an exciting way to explore the outdoors while having the support of experienced guides. Whether you’re a novice hiker or someone looking to expand your outdoor skills, proper preparation is key to ensuring a rewarding experience. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the essential steps to prepare for your adventure.

1. Understand the Itinerary

Review the Trip Details

Before your trip, familiarize yourself with the itinerary provided by Cimarron Wild Adventures. This includes:

• Duration: Know how many days you’ll be on the trail.
• Daily Mileage: Understand the distance you’ll cover each day, which helps gauge your fitness needs.
• Meet-up Time & Location: Plan to arrive prepared and on time to meet your group.

Ask Questions

Don’t hesitate to reach out to your guide or the Cimarron Wild Adventures team with any questions. Understanding the plan will help you feel more comfortable and excited about the journey ahead.

2. Gear Up: What to Bring

Packing List

Cimarron Wild Adventures provides a required and recommended packing list, but here are a few of the essentials:

• Backpack: A comfortable pack with a capacity of 60+ liters is ideal for carrying your gear and your portion of the group gear.
• Shelter: While we do provide tents, feel free to bring your own. Lightweight tents are great options.
• Sleeping Gear: A sleeping bag rated for the expected temperatures and a sleeping pad for comfort.
• Clothing: Dress in layers, including:
  • Base Layer: Moisture-wicking shirts and pants.
  • Insulating Layer: Fleece or down jackets.
  • Outer Layer: Waterproof and windproof jackets.
  • Hiking Boots: Sturdy, broken-in shoes with good traction are essential.

Cooking and Food

Your guides will be preparing your meals. Please make sure your dietary and health information is completed prior to arriving for your trip. Check if you need to bring any snacks or special dietary items. If you are responsible for cooking:

• Cooking Gear: Lightweight stove, fuel, and a pot set will be provided.
• Utensils: Don’t forget a bowl, mug, spork, and any personal eating items you prefer.

3. Get Physically Prepared

Build Up Your Endurance

Training prior to your trip will enhance your experience:

Cardio: Engage in regular cardiovascular exercises such as running, cycling, or swimming to build endurance. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate to high-intensity exercise a few times a week.

Practice Hiking

If possible, go on several practice hikes to familiarize yourself with walking on varied terrain while carrying a loaded backpack. Start with shorter distances and gradually increase your mileage to match the planned daily hikes on your trip.

Strength Training

Incorporate strength training exercises focusing on your legs, core, and back. Exercises like squats, lunges, and planks can help you build the muscles needed for carrying a pack over long distances.

4. Mental Preparation

Set Realistic Expectations

Understand that guided backpacking trips may involve challenges such as changing weather conditions, physical fatigue, and navigating unfamiliar terrain. Prepare mentally by setting realistic expectations for yourself and embracing the adventure, including possible discomforts along the way.

Embrace the Experience

Backpacking is not just about reaching the destination; it’s about enjoying the journey. Be open to new experiences, engage with fellow adventurers, and appreciate the beauty of nature around you.

5. Focus on Safety

Review Safety Guidelines

Cimarron Wild Adventures will provide safety briefings before your trip, but familiarize yourself with general outdoor safety practices:

• Wildlife Awareness: Understand how to behave around wildlife you may encounter, such as bears or moose.
• Trail Etiquette: Learn the basics of trail etiquette, including yielding to others and staying on designated paths.
• Emergency Procedures: Know the plan in case of an emergency, including how to communicate with your guide.

First Aid Kit

While your guides will carry a first aid kit, consider bringing personal items such as any required medications, blister treatment, and personal hygiene items.

6. Stay Hydrated and Nourished

Hydration

Dehydration can quickly derail your trip. Make sure to drink plenty of water before your hike and carry enough on the trail. Your guides will help you locate water sources and teach you how to use water purification methods if needed.

Nutrition

Eating a balanced diet leading up to your trip will help fuel your body for the physical demands of backpacking. During the trip, pick high-energy snacks like trail mix, energy bars, or dried fruit to keep your energy levels up throughout the day.

Conclusion

Preparing for your first guided backpacking trip with Cimarron Wild Adventures is an exciting opportunity that requires thoughtful packing and consideration. We are here for you every step of the way. If you have any questions about what you may need or how to best prepare, don’t hesitate to reach out!