Backpacking program offered at Flanders

Whether you are new to backpacking or a seasoned trekker you will gain great insight at this interactive presentation being held at Flanders on Saturday. Learn the fundamentals of what is necessary to pack physically and mentally for three season backpacking trips here in New England and beyond. Enjoy a show-and-tell of gear and learn tips on packing a backpack, campsite selection, efficient hiking, lightweight alternatives, and more.

The program will be led by Mat Jobin, founder, owner, and guide for the adventure travel company “Reach Your Summit”. As a guide Jobin has led hundreds of trips for individuals, business groups, and families. He has hiked considerable distance trails such as the Appalachian Trail, Long Trail, New England Trail, Pacific Crest, with extensive backpacking also in Glacier National Park, High Sierras, and Cape Breton, Green, White, Taconic Mountains, the Berkshires, and more. He holds a safety certification in Wilderness Medicine and First Aid, Kayak Water Rescue, and CPA/AED for The Professional Rescuer.

There will be an opportunity to ask questions with answers drawn from Jobin’s personal experience out on the trails and in the mountains.

The program will begin at 10 a.m. at the Flanders Studio at the corner of Flanders and Church Hill Roads in Woodbury. The cost is $10 for members and $15 for non-members. Those interested may register online at www.flandersnaturecenter.org or call 203-263-3711, ext. 10, for information.