Every BOLTer will have a chance to be leader of the day, to cook on a backpacking stove, to set up a shelter, and to practice minimal impact camping. Our BOLT Leaders are there to provide support and guidance on the trail and then support you and to offer group gatherings and events for our fall semester together on campus. With friendships established from our fall program, the support and fun continues beyond the fall in a more impromptu way.

The Fall Trip: A Day on the Trail

Morning: Today’s Leaders of the Day looked over the route last night and chose what time the group should wake up. After getting up, half the group packs up the tarp while the other half takes down the bear bag, and we make and enjoy breakfast.

After we fuel, we hit the trail! As we hike we get to know the people around us, enjoy the scenery and play trail games. Today the trail is pretty steep, so we make sure to take water breaks frequently.

Lunchtime: We put our 40 lbs packs down and enjoy lunch! We found a spot just off the trail that has a beautiful view of the Presidential Mountains. Carrots, hummus, pita, apples, cheese, leftovers, and beyond all come out in a DIY smörgåsbord. As we sit, the conversation drifts from our experiences and goals with the hike thus far to what we would like to get out of the upcoming year and our time at Brown. The leaders of the day gently remind us that it’s time to hit the trail yet again.

Afternoon: As we hike, we come upon a river that must be crossed. The BOLT Leaders tell the group about proper river crossing technique and how to find the best places to cross, and the Leaders of the Day talk with the group to make a plan to cross. We triumphantly make it to the other side and eagerly realize that we are approaching the camp.

Late Afternoon: We make it to camp, set up shelter and cook dinner. Over delicious mac and cheese, we reflect on a challenging and satisfying day.

Late Evening: After a rousing game of telephone pictionary that will spawn a semester’s worth of inside jokes, we retreat into the warmth of our sleeping bags. The Leaders of the Day fill out the route log remembering the highlights of the day and recording new knowledge of the trail. Meanwhile, tomorrow’s Leaders of the Day check out the route for tomorrow, pick a wake-up time, and as we fall asleep, we look forward to another full day in the Whites!