Backpacking
We offer three categories of backpacking trips tailored to a range of ability levels. Worth trips average approximately 3–6 miles/day and are suitable for anyone in reasonable physical condition and interested in giving backpacking a try. Stark trips average approximately 6–10 miles/day and are best suited to those with some backpacking experience, or new backpackers looking for a bit more challenge. Abe trips average 7–12 miles/day and are best suited for those in good physical condition and with prior backpacking experience. These mileage estimates are accurate daily averages, though some hikes may be longer or shorter than the listed distances. Remember that weather and terrain conditions can make any backpacking trip physically and psychologically challenging, so be realistic about your ability and experience. In the end, MiddView wilderness trips are about getting to know your classmates and it’s easier to do so if you’re having fun! Regardless of your mileage choice, you’ll need to provide your own well-broken-in, ankle-high hiking boots for backpacking trips.
Women’s Backpacking
For the sixth year running, we’re offering an all-women’s backpacking option. Past trips have been a huge success! This trip will be in the Stark category (6–10 miles/day) and is designed for those female students who are interested in spending three days in the woods with a supportive, fun and
enthusiastic group of women. Backpacking with all women is a truly unique and fun experience. You will need to provide your own well-broken-in, ankle-high hiking boots for this trip choice.
Canoeing Touring
Our canoe trips will have you paddling on nearby lakes and rivers in the Adirondacks or Green Mountains and camping in spectacular settings. No prior canoeing experience is necessary, just a curiosity to see what it’s all about and a desire to learn while working closely with others. Intermediate swimming ability is also strongly encouraged.
Rock Climbing
You’ll begin by heading west to the amazing Adirondack Park. This six million acre preserve is positively brimming with beautiful cliffs, where you’ll have fun learning the basics of top-rope rock climbing. No prior climbing experience is needed. We provide all climbing equipment. Climbing trips spend their evenings either in established campgrounds or backcountry camping. Depending on demand, some trips might also climb in Vermont or New Hampshire.
Women’s Rock Climbing
Women’s rock climbing trips share all of the same characteristics as other rock climbing trips except that they occur in the positive and supportive atmosphere of an all-women’s group. Learn to top-rope rock climb with other psyched women climbers! Women’s climbing trips spend their evenings either in established campgrounds or backcountry camping.
Bicycle Touring
Cycling is among the best ways to see the sights in the Champlain Valley. You’ll pedal the rolling (often hilly!) roads of central Vermont on this trip, spending your evenings in established campgrounds. Van support will help keep your panniers light! Bicycles are available for rental for an additional fee (details will follow if accepted on a cycling trip).
Trail Maintenance
Trail Maintenance trips are similar to backpacking trips, in that you’ll camp in beautiful backcountry area. You’ll need to hike to your campsite with all of your supplies and put in full, rewarding days of trail work, so enthusiasm and physical fitness are important. This is a great way to get out in the woods, learn useful skills, and actively contribute to the maintenance of our local forests.
Adventure Sampler
Can’t make up your mind among the other trips? This trip will involve a day of hiking, a day of rock climbing, and a day of canoeing or sailing. Your evenings will be spent at a campground with easy access to all of these activities.