Start a backpacking adventure from the heart of Chicago and make your way on the South Shore Line to the Indiana Dunes Lakeshore! Below is more information for 2 events coming up. The events are filling up quick and will be full before you know it. 

Women’s Overnight Backpacking- Register

Saturday, May 20, 2017, 6:00 AM – Sunday, May 21, 2017, 1:00 PM
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Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore 

Meet at: Lincoln Park REI

• Member price: $275
• Non-member price: $300
• Not many spots left

Overview

• Fitness level 2: Easy Active
• Skill level 1: Beginner
• Minimum age: 14
• Group size: 10

Let us help you with your first backpacking experience. Join our instructors and like-minded women on an overnight trip to a nearby scenic camp. Our instructors explain how to choose and use equipment (including how to load and carry your backpack) to maximize your comfort and fun. You’ll also learn about campsite selection, camp cooking, water treatment and Leave No Trace etiquette. Learn in this inclusive all women environment and meet other women interested in outdoor adventure. Course includes all required gear (backpack, tent, sleeping bag, pad, stove, all cookware, trekking poles, and water filters) and food. Trip is for women only.

Learn how to pack a backpack for fit, balance and accessibility Learn techniques of how to properly wear and hike with a backpack for ultimate comfort on the trail Learn additional camp skills such as choosing a camp site, camp cooking, water treatment, sanitation, and Leave No Trace principles Discover local areas where overnight backpacking is available.

No Car, No Problem-Overnight Backpacking Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore- Register

Saturday, June 24, 2017, 6:00 AM – Sunday, June 25, 2017, 1:00 PM
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Lincoln Park REI

• Member price: $250
• Non-member price: $275
• Not many spots left

Overview

• Fitness level 3: Moderate
• Skill level 2: Intermediate
• Group size: 10

Start a backpacking adventure from the heart of Chicago! Meeting at the Lincoln Park REI, you will get outfitted for the trip with a backpack, tent, stove, and food. From there, transportation will involve taking the SSL train to the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. The day’s hiking route traverses 6 miles of the Indiana Dunes State Park, ending at a secluded campsite in the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. Day 2 involves a 3 mile hike out, returning to REI Lincoln Park via public transportation. Our instructors will teach you how to choose and use equipment. You’ll learn about campsite selection, camp cooking, water treatment, leave-no-trace etiquette, and how to explore your local National Park via public transit. Participants need to provide their own sleeping bag and sleeping pad.

• Experience a unique backpacking experience
• Learn how to choose and use equipment
• Learn how to use public transportation to explore your local National Park