Fitpacking

Big Bend is one of the most remote and least visited National Parks in the USA. It's an incredibly beautiful and sunny desert landscape that you'll never forget. Escape your frigid climate, see a wild and largely unhiked section of the country, and lose weight (or more accurately, improve body composition).

This trip will run from March 2-9, 2013. Here is the proposed itinerary.

We will be hiking through the seldom visited, sparsely populated Big Bend National Park. Our hike will largely consist of the Chisos Basin Outer Mountain Loop in Big Bend National Park, with a day-hike up to the summit of 7825' Emory Peak, the tallest peak in the park.

On our last day, we'll swing by Laguna Hot Springs for a well deserved soak right next to the Rio Grande River, with a view of Mexico. Important! Water is scarce in this region. Be prepared to carry as much as 2 gallons (16 pounds) of water in your pack. But don't be discouraged. It's only 16 pounds at the outset. It's zero by the time you reach the next water source.

Guides to be determined

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. You can rent top notch quality gear for reasonable prices from Lower Gear. It may also be possible for us to provide some gear for you at a nominal fee if you let us know far ahead of the trip. Unfortunately, we're not in the gear business so the selection of our available inventory is unpredictable. Please feel free to discuss any gear 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. It's important to have fuel to feed it. See what we have planned to eat. Note that this is not necessarily a comprehensive list. If you want to bring a 5 pound chocolate cake, go for it. After carrying it 50 miles through the mountains, your body will reject the empty calories and prefer nutritious food.

$1125 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 Midland/Odessa, TX (MAF) as well as personal equipment, and any restaurant meals.

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