Backpacking

Unlimited possibilities for backpacking can be found in the rugged mountains of Maine and New Hampshire. In our most challenging trips, groups tackle the Saddleback and Mahoosuc sections of the Appalachian Trail, or the Pemigewassett range in New Hampshire, home of the Presidential Mountains.

The Outing Club offers four different backpacking trips as part of the Orientation trip program. Mahoosuc and Saddleback trips follow different sections of the Appalachian Trail, and have the largest mileage, traversing the terrain that includes scenic ridgelines and boulder scrambles. The Height of the Land trip takes participants to another section of the Appalachian Trail. Lastly, the Pemi Loop in New Hampshire let's students explore one of New Hampshire's most scenic ridgelines and climb multiple peaks over 4,000 feet. All trips have five - ten mile days with 2000-4000 feet in elevation change over the course of the trip. Proper hiking boots are required for these trips. Participants should expect to carry heavy packs over varied terrain on these trips. If you have any questions or concerns about acquiring appropriate footwear, please contact us ASAP. You can read more about each of the offered backpacking trips on the trip specific pages. 

For those looking for spectacular scenery at a more moderate pace, we suggest trips with day hiking as part of their itinerary, such as Baxter Day Hiking, Monson Cabin Day Hiking, or Katahdin. Travelling on foot is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the landscape of Maine. 

If there is anything in the trip description or equipment list that you have questions about, please do not hesitate to contact us at (207) 725-4292 or bocOtrips@bowdoin.edu.

See Backpacking Equipment List