Saddleback
Get ready to take on a true backcountry challenge, the Saddleback backpacking trip! You'll spend four days backpacking a stretch of the Appalachian Trail, carrying all your gear on your back as you summit peaks, cross breathtaking ridgelines, and camp deep in the Maine wilderness.
This trip includes 5-12 mile days with elevation changes of 2,000–4,000 feet each day. Proper hiking boots are required, and participants should be prepared to carry heavy packs over long distances, sleep at remote campsites, and not have access to an outhouse. If you are willing to sweat a little (or a lot), the views from this trip make it all worth it! Longer mileage means earlier mornings and gorgeous sunrises.
If you’re unsure about your footwear, contact us—we’re happy to help explain what you’ll need.
Participants should expect to move camp everyday, and carry packs around 45 pounds.
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.
Items that you can borrow or purchase from the BOC are noted on the packing list.
Sample Itinerary
Wednesday
- Depart from ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø±¬ÍøÕ¾ on a bus shared with other backpacking groups.
- Arrive at the trailhead and begin your hike.
- Hike ~7.5 miles to a lean-to for your first night on trail.
Thursday
- Hit the trail early for another full day of hiking 7.5 miles to your next camp
Friday
Continue your journey over varied terrain and elevation, and hike about 6.5 miles to your next campsite
Saturday
- Get up early to be on time for your bus pick up and head back to campus. Clean all your camping stuff and return borrowed gear before returning to your dorm.