Field trip: Introduction to Backpacking
Intro to Backpacking Field Trip - Gladys Lake via Grand Valley
*Trip initially open to Tacoma backpacking students April 6-26, 2026. Trip will open for registration to all Mountaineers April 27, 2026. Overnight Backpacking Field trip
Contacts
- Mon, Aug 17, 2026 — Tue, Aug 18, 2026
- Tacoma Hiking & Backpacking Committee
- Backpacking
- Adults, All Who Qualify
- Moderate
- Mileage: 12.5 mi
- Elevation Gain: 3,910 ft
- 4 (4 capacity)
- FULL (2 capacity)
- Mon, Apr 6, 2026 at 8:00 AM
- Mon, Apr 27, 2026
- Sat, Aug 15, 2026 at 5:00 PM
- Cancellation & Refund Policy
- iCal Google
This is a 13-mile RT backpack that starts from Obstruction Point off Hurricane Ridge. We will make our way down into Grand Valley, passing Grand Lake and Moose Lake, before climbing up to make camp at Gladys Lake. This trip usually entails multiple sightings of deer, marmot, frogs and even bear and goats.
Although this backpacking trip isn't overly difficult, it is still Leader Permission Required. If you're interested in this trip, please send me stats of 1-2 previous hikes over the past 6 months. Once reviewed, I will let you know that you can sign up.
***This trip is permit pending. The first choice on 4/15/2026 is Gladys Lake. However, if that isn't possible (there are only 4 campsites), we will attempt to get a campsite at Moose Lake. Cost is $9/person.***
Photo credit Beth Lowe
TBD
Required Equipment
To be discussed at lecture