What is Needed?

Carter Caves State Resort Park
Winter Adventure Weekend
January 29-31, 2010

Equipment Requirements & Difficulty Ratings

On most trips during the weekend you will be exposed to possible winter weather conditions. These could be extreme cold temperatures, snow, freezing rain, or a combination of the weather conditions. Below is a list of required equipment for all outdoor field trips. Layering your clothes is extremely important during exposure to winter weather conditions. You can add or remove layers of clothing in order to prevent getting cold or too warm which would cause unnecessary sweating that leads to a chilling effect. Following these requirements can prevent cold weather health conditions including hypothermia and frost bite. For you’re safety field trip leaders will remove you from trips if they feel you do not meet these requirements. Some trips require specific equipment that will be listed in individual trip descriptions.

Base Layer: Wicking fabric (polypropylene) long underwear to keep your skin dry and prevent that clammy feeling.
Insulating Layer: (fleece, wool or silk) Vest or shirts that can be added or removed depending on how cold you feel.
Windproof and water-resistant outer layer: A jacket, preferably with a hood, to keep out the elements.
A hat, scarf and a knit mask to cover face and mouth will protect the head and face.
Gloves or mittens and waterproof boots are essential.
Covering all exposed skin will prevent possible frostbite conditions.
Bottled water and trail snacks.
A backpack to carry your equipment in.
Optional items include lip balm, sunglasses, sunscreen, camera, hiking poles or stick.
Note: Most level 2 vertical trips require a hard hat with a chin strap and leather gloves.

Level 1

LEVEL 1: These trips are the least strenuous trips offered. Many of these trips will expose you to winter weather conditions. So dressing appropriately is still required.

Level 2

LEVEL 2: These trips can expose you to the weather elements for a longer period of time. They are more strenuous and require more physical ability than level 1 trips. These trips may last up to 3 hours in length.

Level 3

LEVEL 3: These trips will offer prolonged hiking and exposure to the weather. These trips take you off designated hiking trails into more difficult and rough terrain. Trips can last up to 7 hours in length. 15 year old minimum.

Level 4

LEVEL 4: These trips involve SPECIAL SKILLS which you will need to know before hand. Some of these trips require specific personal equipment (see individual trip descriptions for details). 15 year old minimum.

Here Are The Rules

Each field trip is limited to a specific number of people and is available only to those who have confirmed reservations. Eligibility of participants on all field trips is determined by the field leaders of that trip. Their decision is final and is not subject to appeal. All caves and public meeting places are considered smoke-free environments. Alcohol is not permitted in public places and anyone found to be intoxicated or impaired for any reason will not be allowed to participate in any of the field trips.

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