KIVA LNT Overnight Hikes

A small group of KIVA families expressed an interest in participating in an overnight hike with other KIVA families in hopes that we could learn from each other. Camping out always seems more successful when there is another family along for the ride. This page has been created to share what we have learned along the way.

We felt as a team that we needed to be more aware of the Leave No Trace (LNT) principles and to focus our planning to meet the first principle of Being Prepared. The more planning we can do ahead of time will ensure that we will have less slip ups and certainly help to keep the campsite in good shape or even make it better than we find it.

Step 1: Host a potluck.

You gotta eat, right?

Step 2: Learn the 7 Principles

We were so lucky to have Barry Garst, a local LNT trainer to come and teach us the 7 principles of LNT. Here they are, in case you missed it. Also, check out http://www.lnt.org/programs/principles.php

Know Before You Go
Choose The Right Path
Trash Your Trash
Leave What You Find
Be Careful With Fire
Respect Wildlife
Be Kind To Other Visitors

Step 3: Watch a video!

We gathered together to watch the following video:

Step 4: What’s next?

We then set up an e-mail list and started compiling a supplies list as well as a list of concerns and questions.

Our next meeting will be set up in the following month to see what supplies we are missing and to set up trail duties for each family. Many hands make light work, but they also mean a big mess around the mess tent! By planning ahead, we can make certain to keep our messes to a minimum.

We’d like to thank our sponsors:

Backpacker’s Pantry has donated several cook-in-the-bag meals for our families on our overnight hike. This will keep us energized and happy! Thanks so much. Check out Backpacker’s Pantry online today. Hiking a mountain is good for the soul, and a good, hot meal at the campsite is icing on top! Katmandu Curry is fantastic! A perfect trail meal and great for sharing!

We would like to thank Walkabout Outfitter, in Roanoke, Virginia, for their generous support of the KIVA LNT Team. This trip would NOT have been possible without their support, discounts and donations. They have GENEROUSLY donated flashlights, sunscreen and an emergency whistle for each child participant. Walkabout Outfitter also offered to fill in the gaps for families who might be missing important items such as tents. They opened up the store as a planning meeting spot and even presented a free Backpacking With Families 101 class, just for our group. Please thank Kirk, Suzanne, Janet and the rest of the wonderful folks who work there by stopping in at one of their three locations, Lexington, Downtown Roanoke and Valley View Mall.