Fitpacking

The Pine Barrens -- also known as the Pinelands -- is a vast, peaceful wilderness area in the otherwise densely populated State of New Jersey. We will be thru-hiking the flat, sandy 50 mile long Batona Trail (named for BAck TO NAture). The trail features a surfeit of tranquil streams and ponds featuring flora and fauna such as orchids, deer, and hawks. The Pine Barrens are notable not only for its remote beauty, but its proximity to major population centers like New York City, Philadelphia, Newark, and Wilmington. This is your opportunity to experience colorful Fall Foliage, explore wild New Jersey, and lose weight (or more accurately, improve body composition).

The Batona Trail is one of Fitpacking's easiest offerings and is recommended for beginners. Our route will traverse the entire 50-mile long Batona Trail, which gives participants a nice feeling of satisfaction not only for having completed the entire trail but being able to claim they walked 50 miles. Daily mileages average about 9 miles per day on primarily flat, often sandy trail punctuated by a few rolling hills. Crackling campfires may be permitted in certain campsites to warm up the chilly New Jersy fall evenings.

The Pine Barrens Fitpacking Trip will be from October 9-16, 2010, a good time to see fall foliage. See the proposed itinerary. Most of the trail is flat and often sandy, which will be easier on the knees, but will make walking slightly more difficult.

Weather is always an important concern when backpacking. Fortunately, October is a great time to hike in Central Jersey. Days are temperate and nights are cool. Expect a few desultory bugs, but nothing compared to swarms during the summer months. Please come prepared for rain, possible cold, frosty nights and the possibility of a hot, humid day or two. View the seasonal averages.

Steve Silberberg, who lives in Hull, MA has many years of backpacking experience over a variety of terrains and guides most Fitpacking trips. He is a SOLO certified Wilderness First Responder, Leave No Trace Trainer, and Certified Food Handler.

2nd Guide TBD

Here is a list of equipment we suggest you bring. The list is extensive and can seem daunting, but please don't let this deter you from the trip. We can provide many of the items for you to borrow or rent for a nominal fee if you let us know far enough ahead of the trip to bring them for you. Please feel free to discuss any items of question with us before the trip.

We don't believe in austere eating regimens. Backpacking is a rigorous, rewarding activity. You must feed your body in order for it perform. Your body will dictate that you eat often, so it's important to have fuel to feed it. Please check out the sample menus. This list is not comprehensive and may be altered or augmented. If you want to bring personal food, say a 5 pound chocolate cake, go for it. After carrying it over 50 miles, your body will reject the empty calories and prefer nutritious food.

$1000 per person double occupancy. Here, double occupancy means that you will share a hotel room with another trip participant. You will also be responsible for transportation to and from Philadephia, PA (PHL) as well as personal equipment and any restaurant meals.

Covered expenses include 2 hotel nights, 6 days of trail meals, ground transportation, permits, fees and awesome guides.