AtlantaOutdoorClub
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REGISTRATION REQUIRED: Once you've reviewed the event details, and decided you'd like to join us, you MUST sign up at the bottom of this page.



Free Backpacking 101 Class (after hours at REI Store)


The Basics:
Event Type:Learn
Event Location: 1165 Perimeter Center West, Atlanta, Georgia, 30338 (REI Store)
Date(s) & Time:Sun, Oct 4 2026  5:45 pm >> Sun, Oct 4 2026 8:00 pm
Registration Opens: Mon, Sep 14 2026 7:00 pm
Registration Cut Off: Sun, Oct 4 2026 12:00 pm
Event Duration:2 Hours 15 Minutes
Difficulty Rating:D1: Easy
Trip Leader(s):
Katherine Dorsett Bennett
Clay Cooper
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Member Cost:None

Participant Info:
Who's Invited: Members Only, 21 And Older Only
Maximum Group Size:30
Minimum Group Size:5
Number Registered So Far: 3 / 0 (To see who's signed up, log in to the Member Area)
Are Dogs Permitted: No

Itinerary:

Want to try backpacking but don't know where to start?

Have you been thinking about going on a backpacking trip, but don't have the gear or aren't sure what's involved? Backpacking 101 is designed to help you take that first step!

Join trip leaders Clay and Katherine, along with the REI team, for a hands-on introduction to backpacking. We'll share some of our favorite gear, walk you through the basics, and give you the knowledge and encouragement you need to feel confident signing up for your first -- or next -- backpacking adventure with the club.

This class is geared toward beginners with little to no backpacking experience, as well as those who have some basic knowledge and want to learn more.

What we'll cover:

� How to choose the right backpacking gear
� How to prepare for and plan a safe, responsible trip
� How to pack efficiently
� Tips for making smart decisions in the backcountry
� Trail Etiquette & ways to minimize your impact on the places we love to explore

Our goal is simple: help you spend less time second- guessing and more time enjoying the adventure.

And there's a bonus! After the class, you'll have the opportunity to shop inside REI after hours and pick up some of the backpacking essentials you need to get started.

REI encourages anyone looking for more in-depth gear advice to return during regular store hours, when the team can provide more personalized assistance.

Come learn the basics, ask questions, check out the gear -- and get ready to hit the trail!

Special bonus: One attendee will receive some FREE backpacking gear for attending this event. A drawing will be held on the night of our event.


Required Items to Bring:

enthusiam to learn

Recommended Items to Bring:
Use our Event Checklists to make sure you have everything you need.

How to Get There:
Event Directions:

From downtown Atlanta to 1165 Perimeter Center W #200 (the REI location), the easiest driving route is:

  1. Get onto I-75/85 North through downtown.
  2. Take I-85 North toward Greenville.
  3. Take I-285 West toward Chattanooga/Birmingham.
  4. Take Exit 29  Ashford Dunwoody Road.
  5. Turn right onto Ashford Dunwoody Road.
  6. Continue north and turn left onto Perimeter Center West.
  7. Follow Perimeter Center West to 1165 Perimeter Center West.
  8. REI is Suite #200.

It's roughly 12-13 miles from downtown, with a typical drive of about 16 minutes without heavy traffic.


Notes:
* We encourage all members to follow our Etiquette Guidelines while participating in AOC events.

Cost Includes:

free class


Cancellation/Partial Attendance:   Please review the AOC cancellation policy.


Registration for this event opens at 9/14/2026 7:00:00 PM