Enlist in a bootcamp like no other! This one-night hammock camping program will introduce you to a new way to sleep in the wild! Professional guide Liz Domingue, owner/operator of Just Get Outdoors, will coach you through your adventure. All recruits will be issued a GSMA hammock, tree-safe straps and a rainfly.
Sunday, July 7, 2019: When you check-in for GSMA’s second annual Hammock Bootcamp, you will be issued an exclusive GSMA "Bearpaw" hammock by Yukon Outfitters, a rainfly, stuff-sack and tree-safe straps (1-1.5” wide). You'll settle into the group campsite and get to know the benefits of hammock camping:
Once you understand the basics of the hammock system, you'll dive into a conversation about backcountry camping how-to’s and why it’s recommended to select different locations to prepare meals, store food items and sleep in wild spaces. The group will also brush up on the seven principles of “Leave No Trace” and by the end of the day, you'll climb into your self-assembled sleeping system for the best in rest and relaxation.
Monday, July 8, 2019: Have a hearty breakfast and breakdown camp. You’ll be pleasantly surprised how easy and efficient breakdown will be! Before hitting the trail, the goup can take some time for a Q&A session covering a variety of hiking and camping topics such as:
After the morning discussion, Liz will lead the charge on a five-mile, round-trip hike along the Bradley Fork and Smokemont Loop trails.
Want to test your mettle on this trip? You can carry either a fully-loaded backcounty camping pack or a daypack for your hike. The choice is yours!
Once you've been on the trail for a while, reward yourself with a relaxing break to soak up the sounds of summer. When you feel re-fueled, you'll make your way back to your vehicle with a new perspective on lower-impact hiking and camping.
Other highlights may include the following: wildflowers, cultural history, forest and stream scenes and the potential to view wildlife in their natural habitat.
Fees to Attend