The University of Tennessee, Knoxville Professional & Personal Development 313 Conference Center Bldg., Knoxville, TN 37996 (865) 974-0150 Fax: (865) 974-0154 www.utnoncredit.com E-mail: utnoncredit@utk.edu MT. LECONTE HIKE AND OVERNIGHT IN THE LODGE Course #16SP855 Instructor: Charles Maynard/David Morris Saturday and Sunday, April 30 & May 1, 2016 Telephone: (865) 399-2105 / (865) 607-8717 Welcome to the Smoky Mountain Field School. In order to ensure the safety and enjoyment of your chosen experience, please carefully review the information below well in advance of the meeting date. If you have any concerns or questions about the class contact the instructor(s). For issues related to registration contact Personal and Professional Development at 865-974-0150. MEETING PLACE/TIME: The hike will begin at the upper Alum Cave Bluff parking area trailhead at 9:00 a.m. Saturday. Allow ample travel time in consideration of restroom stops, weather conditions, traffic, and the Park speed limit of 35mph or less Be on time! We plan to ascend and descend Alum Cave Bluff trail. The hike will leave on time, meaning that we plan to "hit the trail" at 9:00 a.m. GENERAL INFORMATION: Accommodations at LeConte Lodge include double bunk beds (expect to share a bed) with clean linens and warm woolen blankets. Participation in all classes is voluntary and each participant will be required to sign a Release of Liability as part of the class roster. Participants should advise their instructor(s) of any medical issues that could become a concern or place themselves or others at risk. Everyone is asked to refrain from the use of cell phones or tobacco products during the experience. Classes are held rain or shine and REGISTRATION FEES ARE NONREFUNDABLE. MEALS: Your registration fee includes Saturday dinner and Sunday breakfast at the lodge. Meals are hearty! Dinner is served at 6:00 p.m., breakfast at 8:00 a.m. You need to provide your own lunches for both Saturday and Sunday or purchase a Sunday lunch from the lodge for $8. WHAT TO EXPECT AND WEAR: Much of the Smokies consists of rugged, remote terrain and participants must make themselves aware of the potential risks involved. The weather in the Park is often unpredictable and can change rapidly producing strong winds, a sudden drop in temperature and even winter-like conditions, especially at the higher elevations. Do not underestimate the year-round need for adequate rain protection and warm layers including a hat and gloves and secure them in waterproof bags. For most day sessions expensive, high-tech clothing and hiking boots are not necessary but comfortable field clothes and sturdy footwear are essential. We do not recommend this as a first hike in the Smokies. RECOMMENDED ITEMS: Make adjustments according to your needs and those of the class. Daypack/Hiking stick or trekking poles One to two quarts (liters) of fluid/snacks/lunch and/or dinner First aid items and personal medications Emergency items: Compass, light source, small knife, waterproof matches and whistle Sunscreen (year round) and insect repellent (seasonal) Field guides/notepad and pen or pencil/small hand lens/binoculars/camera and accessories SPECIFIED ITEMS: Your instructor recommends that you bring these items: Two lunches, snacks, and something to drink Towel and face cloth, overnight personal items, clothes Wine with dinner is optional for approx. $7 and T-shirts are available for approx. $20
CHECKLIST for BACKPACKING Please call Liz to discuss, before class. ESSENTIALS o backpack & rain cover o tent & ground cloth o hiking poles or stick o sleeping bag o sleeping pad o stove/fuel (call Liz) o small pot/cup/spoon/bowl o pocket knife o flashlight or headlamp, extra batteries & bulb o water filter or purification tablets (call Liz) o water (at least 2 qts. per person- bottles or bladder) o Toilet Kit. Include zip-lock baggies, toilet paper, hand sanitizer gel and moist towelettes, which can be disposed of upon our return. o personal identification o waterproof bags (ziplock &/or trash bags to keep pack contents DRY) o matches and lighter o food... See below. PERSONAL CARE AND FIRST AID (Bring the standard items, all in small amounts, unscented if possible) o Toothpaste, toothbrush, floss, biodegradable soap, moist towelettes (2 per day), contact lens supplies (extra contacts or glasses as a backup), other personal toiletries o Washcloth/towel ("PackTowels" work well) o Personal First Aid: any personal medications, Band Aids, moleskin and mole foam, 1 safety pin, and ibuprofen, small amount of duct tape (wrap some around your hiking poles). ** If you are allergic to insect stings you must bring an epi-pen. Consult your physician and please tell your guide. ** CLOTHING - Stay away from cotton clothing, especially as a base layer. o sturdy, broken-in & waterproofed hiking boots with ankle support o 1 pair of sandals or other lightweight shoes (Crocs) for around camp o synthetic socks and liners (1 2 pair) o Waterproof, breathable, rain gear (like Gore-tex): jacket, pants and hat or hood; Rain gear also doubles as an added layer for warmth when needed. o shirt(s) o pants/shorts o underclothes o extra layer(s) for warmth o cap or hat with brim o 1 fleece or wool hat o 1 pair fleece or wool gloves o sunglasses o bandana Remember to dress in layers for the current weather and elevation!! ** It is very important to have one full set of backup dry clothes in case you get wet! ** OPTIONAL o camera with extra batteries & photo card o binoculars o notepad and pencil o nature/field guides o insect repellent o lightweight backpacking pillow ** Pack sleeping bag, clothing, etc. in plastic (waterproof) bags to keep dry! Bring FOOD for: 2 Lunches 1 Supper 1 Breakfast Snacks (energy bars, granola bars, trailmix, etc.) ** Always bring food for one Extra meal ** Drink Ideas: hot chocolate tea &/or coffee powdered drink mix * Pack Light! ** Please let Liz know of any medical conditions you have (allergies, Asthma, heart problems, diabetes, recent injuries, etc.), along with medications you are currently taking. Thanks!