Hi,
I would like to take my middle school students on a one night hike to Harper’s Ferry Hostel from further north in Maryland. I was wondering if anyone could give me advice about preparing them for the hike?
I would also be interested in knowing how far to expect them to go in a day?
Finally, I would like to know what would be a good spot to camp over night, one day out from Harper’s Ferry?
Thanks,
Elizabeth
Elizabeth
How old are these students. I would say to keep it to around 6 miles maybe a little more depending on how only your students are.
luke kaim
Whats the ratio of kids to adults…Middle school kids have a ton of energy, I’d say push them to ten miles so they sleep at night instead of running around in the dark…there is an at trail shelter between the hostel and Gathland park that they may want to stay at and really enjoy the experience…water is available…etc…I would just try and check the weather before I went.
mrush
I did this section last year. If you want to hike south, ending at Harpers Ferry, I’d suggest starting at Gathland State Park and camping at the Garvey Shelter on the first day. That section is fairly easy for a bunch of middle schoolers and would be a good “shake-down” for the newbies. The hike from the Garvey Shelter to Harpers Ferry on the second day is mostly downhill with a lot of switchbacks, or flat along the C&O Canal.
How many kids do you plan to bring? Consider their skills because you’re only as strong as your weakest link. And having too many kids could overrun the shelter.
Shiraz-mataz
Do an orientation or two beforehand as a gear shakedown. I was dumbfounded as to what my 9th graders thought they would need on our last trip. Next trip I plan to bring in my gear and actually SHOW them what I’m talking about as far as clothing, shows, stove, tent, sleeping pad, etc.
I wouldn’t plan aggressive miles (10 mi seems too much) just due to those that will be inexperienced, carry too much weight, or develop blisters at mile 1…point is to get them to enjoy the experience, and hopefully get them hooked on backpacking! So, make it as leisurely a pace as possible, with some cool stops.
I wrote about one of my trips with kids in one of my trailjournals, it is trailjournals.com/btracknh and one of the dates from Dec '06. You could read this for an idea of our mileage, etc. We took them to Mt. Rogers area. Despite a few setbacks with gear and the freezing cold, they loved it!
Good luck!
Backtrack
I have taught middle school and high school camping classes and have taken students on over nights. I’m not at all familiar with Maryland trails. However you asked for suggestions on preparing them for a hike.
The first thing you need to consider is the number of students. I would take no more than 8 people in the group, counting parents and teachers. It is recommended by the ATC to limit the number of people in groups on the AT. If it is not on the AT take 3 or 4 more people. No more than 12.
If you have time, set some type of physical limits on the students. Give them some type of goal to reach before going: be able to walk 2 miles under 20 or 15 minutes, be able to walk for an hour with a backpack, walk around the track or school campus.
Students must be able to set up the tent in which they will be using, have a menu, clothing check, etc. Above all, be ready for bad weather. The first time I took students out it rained the first night, students and gear were completely soaked, we ended the trip early and it was a nightmare. Make sure you have a good first aid supply kit. The more people you take the higher the odds you will need first aid.
Check different websites, there are many sites that will give you check lists to make sure everything is covered.
You know the students the best, if you think you will have trouble or problems with one or two, leave them at home. Good luck with your trip, start small and if you come back wanting to go again considerated successful.
Bilko
Thank you all so much for your suggestions. I really appreciate it. There are only 12 students from 12-14 years old in the class, so I think it might still work even though it is a bit big for a group. I will certainly show them my gear. Thank you.
Thanks,
Elizabeth