Hiking through the woods, across the mountains, and along the trails— Life at camp gives you almost endless chances to wander within nature. At Camp W, there’s natural beauty around every turn.
Hiking Adventures
Everyday at camp, there’s a chance to explore the incredible forests, overlooks and waterfalls of this area of Vermont. The trails here on camp property have been developed to highlight unique ecosystems across camp.
On our hiking expeditions campers have the opportunity to explore the nearby State and National Forests.
There’s some kind of hike everyday at camp, and every trip includes relaxing conversation, beautiful sights, and memorable moments.
Carry what you need and see what’s out there!
Day Hiking at Camp W
Unique Day Hike Adventures
• Short and Sweet: Enjoy quick hikes that lead to incredible destinations like waterfalls, overlooks, or shaded forest glades.
• Wet and Wild: Splash and scramble along stream beds, cooling off while navigating rocky trails and embracing the fun of nature’s playground.
• Go Light: On shorter hikes, you can leave heavy gear behind and focus on the simple joy of walking lightly, soaking in the beauty and richness of the forest.
Longer Day Hikes
For more extended adventures, campers might carry a small “day pack” filled with snacks, water, and a few “just-in-case” essentials. These hikes offer opportunities to build stamina, develop trail skills, and enjoy the satisfaction of reaching new destinations.
Day hiking at Camp W is a wonderful way to connect with nature, create memories with friends, and experience the thrill of discovery—all in just a single day.
Backpacking Adventures at Camp W
During the summer season, backpacking trips span three days and two nights, taking campers on unforgettable journeys along Vermont’s iconic Long Trail. In small groups of 6–10 campers, participants travel through remote, scenic areas while learning essential outdoor skills, including:
• Leave No Trace Principles: How to recreate responsibly and minimize environmental impact.
• Backpacking Techniques: Packing efficiently, setting up camp, and navigating trails safely.
An Unforgettable Experience
There’s nothing quite like waking up in the heart of the wilderness, surrounded by nature’s beauty. Cooking breakfast around the campfire with friends, sharing stories, and preparing for another day of adventure creates memories that last a lifetime.
Backpacking at Camp W is more than an outdoor activity—it’s an opportunity to develop independence, build resilience, and connect deeply with nature and peers in a meaningful way.
Hiking and Backpacking at Camp W
Hiking and backpacking are core outdoor adventure activities at Camp W, offering campers the chance to explore the breathtaking natural beauty of our surroundings. Every camper has the opportunity to set out on foot and experience the joys of being outside—thrilling adventures, shared moments with friends, and a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.
Opportunities for Exploration
As campers grow more comfortable in the outdoors, their curiosity to explore new areas blossoms. We offer:
• Optional Half-Day Hiking Trips: These excursions are perfect for groups of friends heading to scenic overlooks, hidden swimming holes, or lush forest trails along babbling streams.
• Backpacking Adventures: For those ready to take exploration to the next level, multi-day backpacking trips provide unforgettable journeys into remote wilderness areas, far from civilization.
Respect for Nature
At Camp W, we follow Leave No Trace (LNT) principles in all hiking and backpacking activities, teaching campers to minimize their impact on the environment and preserve the beauty of the outdoors for generations to come.
Benefits of Hiking and Backpacking
Hiking and backpacking offer so much more than physical activity—they provide campers with a unique set of skills and mental rewards:
• Physical Benefits: Build stamina, strength, and endurance while embracing the thrill of adventure.
• Practical Skills: Learn safety principles, map reading, pack management (planning, packing, carrying), and teamwork strategies.
• Leadership Development: Gain confidence and experience in leading groups and making decisions in outdoor settings.
• Psychological Growth: Discover a sense of calm and well-being inspired by nature, foster creativity, and build self-confidence, optimism, and a sense of accomplishment.
Why Hiking Matters
Getting outside for a hike is not just an adventure—it’s a chance to connect with nature, build resilience, and grow as an individual. At Camp W, hiking and backpacking are experiences that campers carry with them long after they leave, enriching their lives and broadening their horizons.