Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does the backpack weigh?
A: That depends a lot on you. Each person in the group is
responsible for carrying a portion of the common group gear (pots,
stove, tarp, etc...), and you'll always want to have a couple of liters
of water on you. Other than that, your pack could be 25 or thirty
pounds or it could be 50. Remember--everything that you decide to
bring, you will carry.
Q: What type of clothes and sleeping bag, (cold weather rating) should I bring?
A: Gradual laying is the key. We expect warm to hot weather
during the day, but you should be prepared should the weather turn
cold. And there's every shade in between. It is important for campers
to bring multiple clothing layers such as long underwear should weather
conditions become colder. Moderate changes in temperature should be
handled by simply taking off or putting on a quick layer. You don't
need a -20 sleeping bag for this trip--in fact you'll roast. It never
hurts to have a bag that can keep you warm in the cold, you can always
put on all your clothes in your 15 bag, but you just sweat in your -20
until it gets really wet and uncomfortable.
Q: What are the estimated arrival/departure times?
A: We will be preparing to leave for the trip on arrival day, so
you'll need to arrive between 8am and 2pm. We'll leave campus in
the early evening, and we will arrive back to campus before 9am on the
first day of New Student Week.
Q: What's with the socks?
A: Your feet have perhaps the biggest say in how much you enjoy
a hiking trip. Wet or damp feet are sad feet, and that makes you a sad
camper. You should have several (at least 3) pairs of thick synthetic
or wool socks (NOT cotton; cotton absorbs moisture while wool and
synthetics dispell it). Not only will you be happy to put on those
clean dry socks on the third day, but those around you will appreciate
it when you take off your boots at the end of the fifth day. You don't
need a pair for every day, but it can be nice to have clean socks on
the last day of the trip. We recommend wearing thin (again, synthetic)
liner socks. Separately-moving layers in your boot means less rubbing
against your skin and it helps to quickly move moisture away from your
skin to work its way out of your boot.
Q: What are the bathroom accommodations?
A: One great part about camping is becoming one with nature.
God's green earth, for one week, will be your bathroom. Another great
thing is how much privacy you can find in the outdoors, so don't worry.
Q: Do you provide water bottles?
A: We do not provide water bottles, however, they may be
purchased once the student has arrived to campus. Pwild campers and
counselors generally use Nalgene or Sigg water bottles or an
equivalent. These are available for purchase at either of two outdoor
stores near campus. Pwild campers are given a 20% discount on items at
these two stores. ALL CAMPERS MUST BRING WATER BOTTLES HOLDING A COMBINED MINIMUM OF 3-4 LITERS WITH THEM ON THE TRIP.
Q: Are students responsible for bringing their own plastic garbage bags?
A: Yes, students are responsible for bringing their own garbage
bags. Each camper should bring 2-3 bags with them on the trip. They
keep your things dry in your pack should you find yourself crossing a
stream or in a downpour. They also make great make-shift rain ponchos.
Q: How will I know my child has arrived at Northwestern on the day Pwild leaves? Is it possible for you to let me know?
A: Students are free to call and let you know that they have
arrived safely, however it is their responsibility to do so, as we will
not require students to make calls.
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