Utah spring break 2014 instructor manual

SPRING BREAK 2014- CAMPING, CANOEING, & CLIMBING UTAH

3/7-3/15, 2014

CAMPING, CANOEING, & ROCK CLIMBING- ARCHES NP, GREEN RIVER, & MOAB UT WELCOME Thank you for your interest in this nine-day adventure that takes place in remote and spectacular Arches National Park, Green River, and Moab, Utah. We pride ourselves on offering great camping, canoeing, and climbing trips to this area and can boast of many years of experience leading first time paddlers and climbers. We are committed to small group trips that are safe and have a friendly atmosphere. The information that follows will give you a clear picture of the type of adventure you can expect. We hope you will join us.

ABOUT THIS TRIP There will be 8-11 participants plus five leaders travelling together in one 15-passenger van and a Crew-cab pickup to beautiful Arches National Park. The setting is a serene red sandstone environment like no place else on earth.

We will spend a day hiking and exploring the arches that this area is famous for. This is one of the most photographed places in the United States and for good reason. Bring your camera!

Next we will spend 4 days traveling through and exploring Labyrinth Canyon on the Green River canoeing through stunning canyons and exploring side canyons for Native American petroglyphs and cliff dwellings, plus early American settler artifacts. At this time of year you can expect cool to warm days, refreshing cold water for swimming and cool to cold nights for sleeping. Our itinerary is geared for first-time paddlers, but all experience levels will enjoy the beauty and solitude of this trip. We offer the use of both 15’ and 16’ canoes and the opportunity to paddle both. This trip is an expedition of sorts and we will be carrying all of our gear in our canoes throughout the trip—including water—resulting in an excellent outdoor learning experience and challenge.

Plan on observing a lot of native flora and fauna whether it is birds, flowers in bloom, fish, and local reptiles. We will do our best to make time each day to have day hiking and relaxing options to enjoy this amazing natural area.

Once we reach Mineral Bottom on the Green River, we will take out and shuttle back to Moab. The next day we will spend climbing the sandstone that we have been looking at the entire trip. Then it is time to return to Baylor for the final bit of the semester, refreshed and ready for the next challenge.

INVESTMENT $550 – Includes transportation, food in the field, camping equipment, permits, rock climbing equipment, canoes, lifejackets, etc… guides and instruction.

LABYRINTH CANYON HISTORY On July 15, 1869, while near Bow Knot Bend, John Wesley Powell named Labyrinth Canyon.

Located just south of Green River, Utah and bordering Canyonlands National Park, this “tortuous” canyon is famous for its inspiring walls and dramatic bends in the river. The colorful history of Labyrinth Canyon includes Native Americans, trappers, miners, river runners, steam boaters, ranchers and moon shiners.The first unique geologic feature is the Crystal Geyser. This cold water geyser and its distinctive yellow/orange sheen was caused in the 1930’s when geologist Glen M. Ruby was drilling for oil. After passing the Crystal Geyser you will pass through Mancos Shale, the Morrison Formation (Jurassic time period), and the Somerville Formation. The Somerville Formation forms Dellenbaugh Butte (or the Inkwell or Anvil) named for the youngest member of Powell’s second expedition in 1871.

As you wind deeper into Labyrinth the 1,000 foot walls are made-up of Entrada, Navajo, Kayenta, and Wingate Sandstones. The Chinle formation just under the Wingate sandstone is where uranium is found.Prior to the Fremont Indians, the Native American history dates back to the pre-Columbian time period. Evidence from this era can be viewed many miles up Horseshoe Canyon. The Fremont Indians, who at one time occupied a large portion of Utah, spent time in the canyons of Labyrinth. Because of their sudden disappearance, 750-800 years ago, and

with no written history, very little is known about these people. A part of their story is carved into the canyon walls of Labyrinth for us to admire and to speculate. Before this territory was acquired by the United States, the Spanish fathers came through in the 1770’s to explore and set up missions. Trappers such as Dennis Julien followed in the early 1800’s. Dennis Julien left two inscriptions in this canyon that imply he was moving upstream.

John Wesley Powell’s expeditions of 1869 and 1872 enjoyed the calm pace of the river through Labyrinth Canyon before traveling through Stillwater Canyon and into the rapids of Cataract Canyon. In the early 1900’s, ranchers began moving in along the river, trying to make themselves a life. One ranch called “Peacharosa” had about 40,000 peach trees in 1910. The Ruby Ranch went through eight different owners, each trying to make it living in harsh conditions. These and other ranches were typical of the Wild West with gunfights, moon shining and tales of outlaws. Outlaws frequented the rough canyon trails on their way to their hideout at Robbers Roost. Steam boaters also made their marks all along the canyon walls. In 1891 the Major Powell steamboat made it all the way to the Confluence of the Green and Colorado Rivers, to potentially set up a “hotel.” Steamboats such as the Marguerite, the city of Moab, the Undine, and the Utah were just a few who also ran this canyon.

In the 1950’s the Uranium boom hit Moab and Labyrinth Canyon. Throughout Labyrinth Canyon old equipment and mines can still be seen. The road into Mineral Bottom (part of the old Horse Thief trail) was built to access some mines. River runners such as the Kolb’s, Holmstrom & Burg, White & Aleson, and Norm Nevills frequented the canyon adding to its history. Today, Labyrinth Canyon is not nearly as busy, giving the current river runners a sense of solitude and time to enjoy the history of Labyrinth HISTORY OF ARCHES NATIONAL PARK

NATIVE INHABITANTS The first humans to inhabit Arches National Park were hunter-gatherers that came to the area to make tools like knives, darts, scrapers and spear points from the microcrystalline quartz commonly found in the region. Eventually these paleolithic forebears would come to practice agriculture, cultivating crops like beans, squash and corn in the arid soil. These agrarian societies would develop into the Ancestral Puebloan and Fremont cultures, which were prevalent throughout the southwest until about 700 years ago.

Located on the northern fringes of the Ancestral Puebloan lands, Arches National Park does not have any ancient dwellings, but it does retain other important records of human activity, such as inscriptions in rock. Later peoples such as the Ute and Paiute, which moved into the area as the Puebloan and Fremont were in decline, also left petroglyphs, which can be seen along the Wolfe Ranch Trail. Later petroglyphs can be identified by the presence of

figures on horseback, a commodity that the native peoples of the region only gained access to through trade with the Spanish.

EUROPEAN EXPLORATION & SETTLEMENT The Spanish were the first Europeans to explore the area, as they sought an overland route to connect their settlements in Mexico their missions in California. Yet, the first reliable European claim to visiting the park belongs to a French-American fur trapper named Denis Julien. We know this thanks to his habit of chiseling his name and the date into rocks around the southwest. Julien visited what would become Arches National Park on June 9, 1844.

Most of these explorers were just passing through, and with good reason. The desert wasn’t the easiest place to eke out a living, as early American ranchers and homesteaders would discover. In addition to the harsh climate and generally poor soil, the American Indians in the region weren’t always very accommodating of settlers. Conflict with the Ute routed the first attempt at permanent American settlement in the region in 1855, the Mormon mission at Elk Mountain in present-day Moab. Moab would be founded in the Riverine Valley south of the park in 1878.

TOURISM & PARK ESTABLISHMENT Citizens of Moab, particularly the community’s first doctor and a young newspaper editor, were instrumental in spreading word about the magnificent sandstone arches and rock formations north of their frontier town. However, it took the persuasion of a Hungarian-born prospector to rope in the interest of those in power. Inspired by the the dramatic spires of Klondike Bluffs, Alexander Ringhoffer wrote to the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad, touting the region’s potential as a tourist destination. Representatives from the railroad would tour the region with Ringhoffer, and later advocate for the establishment of a national park.

President Herbert Hoover granted the region protection as Arches National Monument in 1929, and the park underwent a series of expansions are reorganizations during the mid-20th century. Interestingly, the park’s most famous arch — the picturesque Delicate Arch, symbol of Utah — was not even included in the initial land grant under Hoover. It would take a 1938 expansion of the park by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt to include it and other famous rock formations. Arches National Monument became Arches National Park in 1971.

WEATHER “Plan for the worst, expect the best.” Warm days, breezy afternoons, cool nights, and plenty of sunshine is the norm. It is possible to experience rain. Expect temperatures as high as the 70’s and as low as the mid 20’s. The biggest factor to contend with is the SUN, followed by wind, and possible rain (even snow at higher elevations).

We will get on the water early to avoid some of the afternoon winds, we expect folks to take care of their skin with sun block and a large brim hat, and to be prepared to paddle in the wind and/or rain.

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE The fee includes, travel, four outdoor leaders, all camping and permit fees, round-trip transportation via air conditioned 15-passenger van, 22 meals (8 breakfasts, 7 lunches & 7 dinners), and complete outfitting of all canoe, rock climbing, and personal camping gear. A $200 deposit is required to reserve your space. Please read our cancellation policies carefully before registering.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Your personal expenses will include approximately six to seven meals on the road or in town, favorite snacks, and any souvenirs you would like to purchase in Moab or Arches National Park.

CANCELLATION POLICY: PLEASE READ BEFORE REGISTERING FOR AN OUTING 1.

If you cancel prior to the pre-trip meeting you are entitled to a refund or a credit voucher good for the full amount which can be used toward another outing. Credit vouchers are valid through the end of the academic year. Note: transferring from one trip to another constitutes a cancellation and must be done within the aforementioned deadline to avoid loss of fee.

2 If you must cancel from an outing after the aforementioned deadline (Feb. 17th), you may receive a refund or a credit voucher good for the full amount ONLY IF WE CAN FILL YOUR VACATED SPOT. Please note that all other spaces must be filled before we can fill your space. If we are unable to fill your vacated spot, you will not be entitled to a credit voucher or refund. NO EXCEPTIONS. 3.

Sometimes, we must cancel an outing due to low enrollment. In such a situation, we try to contact enrolled participants either by the Monday prior to the outing or the day of the pre-trip meeting. Enrolled participants will be eligible for a full refund or credit voucher.

4.

In the event of cancellation due to unforeseeable circumstances on the part of Baylor Outdoor Adventure (bad weather, natural disaster, or instructor illness for example), we will make every attempt to reschedule the outing or issue a full refund or credit voucher.

PURPOSE & OUTCOMES Goal: To provide students with a fun, safe, and learning outdoor adventure experience during Spring Break.

Outcomes: 1. Students will learn the basic fundamentals of River Canoeing in Class I moving water environment • Proper Paddling Techniques • Trim boats for maximum efficiency • Rescue techniques 2. Students will learn the fundamentals of Camping • How to set up and take down tents • How to cook meals on a stove • How to take care of personal hygiene in the backcountry 3. Students will learn minimum impact camping techniques • Leave No Trace principles • Techniques for disposing waste 4. Students will have free time to have supervised exploration in the following adventure activities: • Hiking • Canoeing • Rock Climbing

PERMITS A free BLM Permit is necessary for running the Green River. Tex’s Riverways www.texsriverways.com will process our permit for the paddling section.

Reservations have been made for all campgrounds in Arches National Park. Campground on the way up and back will depend on how far we make it.

TRIP LEADERSHIP The leaders guiding this trip have extensive paddling, camping, and rock climbing “know-how”. They also have many years’ experience traveling and adventuring throughout the United States and have led trips well beyond the scope of this one. They look forward to sharing a wonderful canoeing adventure with a small group of enthusiastic trip members.

Outdoor Adventure Professional Staff:

Mark Mullert- 254-709-2253 Charley Lane- 254-855-7641 Outdoor Adventure Student Leaders: Daniel Ezell 817-964-9545 (Graduate Student) Andrew Watson 303-916-8679 (Undergrad) Lindsey Aldaco-Manner 971-241-1430 (Undergrad) STAFF SKILLSETS Experience Paddling and Instructing Canoeing (Mark, Daniel, & Andrew) ACA Canoe Instructor (Mark) Experience paddling canoes in moving/whitewater (Mark, Daniel, and Andrew) All Leaders and Student Staff are approved Drivers Staff have the following Medical Training: • • • • • •

Mark Mullert- WEMT & CPR Daniel Ezell- WFR & CPR Andrew Watson- WFA & CPR Charley Lane- WFA & CPR Lindsey Aldaco-Manner- FA & CPR

RISKS, HAZARDS, & SAFETY On paddling trips Sun, Wind and Weather are always our biggest concerns. Sun exposure can lead to sunburn, heat stroke, or heat exhaustion. All of these are serious injuries in a remote desert environment. High winds can impede our progress and make even camping difficult. This area is known for both its pristine and calm waters, but at times, there are fierce winds and thunderstorms that can cause dangerous conditions to present themselves in a matter of minutes. Mornings are typically calm offering ideal paddling conditions, while afternoons can present us with windy or stormy conditions that can run the full range from strenuous paddling to dangerous conditions. This means we will rise early, have quick breakfasts, and hit the water with time in the afternoon for snorkeling, siestas, fishing, reading, and hiking. Getting up early, some days, may be non-negotiable.

The outdoor environment is unique, providing us with all kinds of opportunities to be bitten, stung, stuck, burned, etc. Protecting yourself from the sun is encouraged if not mandatory. There may be rattle snakes and scorpions in the shade or under rocks, and sharp plants around—following safety protocols established by your trip leaders will help you protect yourself from these inherent risks. Also, paddling a canoe can be hard work at times—plan on working some muscles that may not get used much. You should consider training in the SLC on a rowing machine, and swim once a week, to get those muscles ready.

Practically speaking, the nearest medical facilities are in the towns along the way, but the closest major hospital would be in Grand Junction, CO some 2+ hours away. Everyone on this trip must make a conscious effort at all times to be safe. One person’s disdain for safety will result in more hardship for the whole group. If we do have an accident or injury that requires medical attention beyond the scope of our leaders’ experience, the trip is immediately over without refund. Our leaders are certified Wilderness First Responders or certified in Wilderness First Aid, which means they are trained to administer first aid in this type of “delayed transport” environment.

However, while they can treat injuries—they cannot always prevent them. Lastly we do our best to stay in communication with our contacts in town via cell phone or SPOT Satellite Messenger (provided we can get a signal).

EMERGENCY PLAN

Communication Communication while in Labyrinth Canyon and in Arches National Park will be limited due to the canyon walls.

Group in the Field while canoeing, hiking or climbing will be equipped with a two way satellite texting device.

The group will carry cell phones while traveling to and from the trail heads. While on Trail, they will carry a GPS and two way satellite text communicator. Group will attempt check in each day while in the backcountry.

To send a message directly to one of the groups - login to the website below and follow the directions listed below. www.enterprise.delorme.com Username: outdooradventure@baylor.edu Password: Bayloroa1 Once you login a map will show on the screen. Find the patrol you want to contact (use the key below) and click on their identifier from list on the left. Once their identifier is selected, click messages in the top left corner. A text box will appear where you can type your message.

Additional Map Page can be found at the following link: https://share.delorme.com/9cf648e8233145d9ad8eaea3eb26093c Password:Baylor InReach Device key: BUOA4 Buckskin Gulch: Cody Schrank BUOA3 Moab Canoeing: Mark Mullert Daniel Ezell HHPR Grand Canyon: Andrea Garza and David Campbell

Emergency/ Illness or Injury A. In case of any emergency requiring evacuation, the other patrols and OWA will be notified as soon as possible.

If contact is not confirmed, GEOS Search and Rescue may be notified. GEOS (http://www.geosalliance.com/contactus.html) should contact Baylor Police and Kim Scott as per InReach’s Programmed Message and Contacts.

Other Numbers • Dr. Kim Scott or Administrative Assistant 254.710.3315, 254.709.9961 (cell), 254.848.9833 (home) • Robert Graham - Campus Recreation 254-366-6275 • Any emergency park personnel (see additional location information) • Baylor OA Dr. Contact Dr. Sharon Stern Mobile: 254-722-3320 Office: 710-1010 Sharon_Stern@Baylor.edu InReach SOS Programmed message: Baylor University Outdoor Adventure Program - Campus Recreation.

Waco TX. If you receive this message contact Baylor Police Department and tell them it is a Campus Recreation Trip and to contact Kim Scott, Campus Recreation, and the Risk Management on call staff. Under no circumstances should you contact or talk to the media.

Emergency Contacts: BU Police and Kim Scott

In Reach Quick Messages:

These messages may be used for simplicity to check in, or if the GPS / iphone unit is not working which allows customized text messages.

1. All is well, checking in. Sic'em. (Sent to all other Spring Break inreach devices and Kim_Scott@Baylor.edu) 2. All is well, GPS/iphone not working. Sic'em. (Sent to all other Spring Break inreach devices and Kim_Scott@Baylor.edu) 3. Need assistance, not life threatening, GPS-iphone not working, msg will be sent twice to verify. (Sent to all other Spring Break inreach devices and Kim_Scott@Baylor.edu, Kim Scott Cell, Robert_Graham@Baylor.edu, Robert Graham Cell.

B. Order of action steps for emergency or illness or injury in addition to appropriate notification.

1. Call emergency dispatch number. Give location and condition of patient as well as any evacuation and medical care plans. If not immediate cell phone service is available you will need to send a message via Satellite Phone or GPS Inreach Unit to the Park / Rescue Personnel.

2. Administer first aid to the highest level of training. Policy is that at least one person on the trip should have at a minimum current wilderness first aid training.

3. Be certain “remaining” participants are taken care of (food, shelter etc.) and are not in immediate danger.

Contingency Plans – Non-Emergency /Illness Administer first aid to the highest level of training. Continue with group at whatever pace is necessary. If necessary, have one staff member stay back with the sick/injured camper. If patient can be moved, choose evacuation routes. If patient can be moved, and is stable but the party requires more help for evacuation, a. Send one leader and three participants with detailed description of location and condition of patient; b. Contact the ranger station for possible assistance.

If patient can move but is unable to complete entire trip, exit out to the nearest and shortest trail head as opposed to completing trip.

COMMUNICATION DEVICES 2 Verizon Cell Phones 3 AT&T Cell Phones 1 SPOT Satellite Messenger Considering Renting Satellite phone for river portion, will consult with local outfitter.

SEARCH & RESCUE PROCEDURES • • • •

Participants should have already been briefed on what to do in the case of getting lost or turned around.

They should stay at their present location and blow their whistle.

In the event of a lost or missing participant, make sure all other participants are safe and secure and notify your liaison (OA coordinator or other identified person).

If a search and rescue is needed, the designated point person will evaluate the situation and then notify the local rescue personnel. Contact using available resources- Cell Phone, Sat Phone, or SPOT Messenger.

Send one staff or student staff with at least two participants and a detailed description of location and condition of patient

EMERGENCY CALL ORDER A. In case of any emergency requiring evacuation, the Outdoor Adventure Staff member on the trip shall be notified as soon as possible. Contact Cody Schrank (see below) or Mark Mullert 717-773-0319 (cell) or 254-7107606 (office) Call order is as follows:

1. Outdoor Adventure Director (if not on site) Cody Schrank 254.230.6361 (cell) 254.710.3315 (office) or 254.230.6361 or by radio 2. Any emergency park personnel (see additional note information below) 3. Director of Campus Recreation: Dr. Kim Scott or Beverly Warlick Administrative Assistant 254.710.3315, or ext 4901 (office), 254.709.9961 (cell), 254.848.9833 (home) Note: In the event of serious life condition or death: Dr. Kevin Jackson or Dr. Liz Palacios should be called immediately before any notification of parent, media or other Baylor personnel outside of Outdoor Adventure Director or Director of Campus Recreation.

Dr. Kevin Jackson and Dr. Liz Palacios (office) 254.710.1314 Dr. Kevin Jackson (cell) 254.224.2245

AND

Dr. Liz Palacios (cell) 254.717.7063

You should not contact anyone else until a Student Life Division representative has authorized you to do so. Under no circumstances should you contact or talk to the media.

B. Order of action steps for emergency or illness or injury in addition to appropriate notification.

1. Call emergency dispatch number. Give location and condition of patient as well as any evacuation and medical care plans. Use sat phone if available. Use Spot transmitter to send SOS or emergency details.

2. Administer first aid to the highest level of training. Policy is that at least one person on the trip should have at a minimum current wilderness first aid training.

3. Be certain “remaining” participants are taken care of (food, shelter etc.) and are not in immediate danger.

LOCAL EMERGENCY CONTACTS RANGERS & LAW ENFORCEMENT Rescue / Fire / Sheriff / Police - - - Dial 911 Arches National Park- (435) 719-2299 (mainline) Canyonlands National Park- (435) 719-2313 (mainline) Moab Field Office- BLM- (435) 259-2100 Moab Ranger District- USFS- (435) 259-7155 (Ranger- Michael Diem) Grand County Sheriff’s Office- (435) 259-8115 (Search & Rescue) http://www.gcsar.org/index.html Moab Fire Department- (435) 259-5557 Moab Utah Police Department- (435) 259-8938 Moab Utah Highway Patrol- (435) 259-541 --------------------------------------------------------MEDICAL CARE Moab Regional Hospital- (435) 719-3500 (Level IV Trauma Center) 450 West Williams Way Moab, Utah 84532 www.amhmoab.org Moab Immediate Care & X-Ray- (435) 259-5276

267 N. Main St, Moab, UT 84532 www.moabimmediatecare.com St. Mary’s Hospital & Regional Medical Center (970) 298-2273 (Level II Trauma Center) 2635 North 7th Street Grand Junction, CO 81501 ---------------------------------------------------------OUTFITTER Tex’s Riverways 691 North 500 West (435) 259-5101 Spoke with Devin Vaughan BAYLOR EMERGENCY CONTACTS Dr. Kim Scott- Director of Campus Recreation- 254-709-9961 (cell) or 254-848-9833 (home) Warren Ricks- Director of Risk Management- 254-710-6255 or 254-749-5003 (cell) Dr. Liz Palacios- Dean of Students (cell) 254.717.7063 Dr. Kevin Jackson- Vice President for Student Life (cell) 254.224.2245 MEDICAL FORMS See Attached LIGHTNING POLICY If you are caught in the open during a thunderstorm, try to seek shelter. Tents are poor protection: Metal tent poles may function as lightning rods; stay away from poles and wet items inside the tent. Take the following precautions to avoid being struck by lightning.

• • • • • • • • • •

Get away from water, which readily conducts electricity Seek low ground if you are in an open valley or meadow If you hair stands on end, move immediately.

Avoid standing on ridge tops, at lookout structures, or near or under lone tall trees, especially isolated or diseased trees If you are in a wooded area, look for a stand of even sized trees Do not remain near or on rocky pinnacles or peaks Do not reaming near, touch or wear metal or graphite equipment, such as ice axes, crampons, climbing devices, and frame packs.

Insulate yourself from the ground if possible. Sit on a soft pack or foam pad to protect against step-voltage transfer of the lightning strike through the ground – though ground currents may move through such insulation.

Do not lie down – this puts more of your body in contact with the ground, which can conduct more electrical current.

Caves need to be 3x’s as deep as the opening is large. Avoid being the tallest thing around.

FLASH/BANG PRINCIPLE

The moment lightning flashes, start counting the seconds. Stop timing once you hear the bang of thunder. Divide the number of seconds by five; the result is the thunderstorm’s distance from you in miles. (Every 5 seconds is 1 mile) Continue to do this so you can determine if the storm is approaching (time interval decreases) or moving away (time interval increases). If it is approaching, although it might not be time for lightening position yet, you need to be thinking ahead and assuming that you will need an appropriate place for the group.

Two important questions:

How far away am I or my group from a safe location?

How long will it take me (or the group) to get to a safe location?

30/30 RULE If you see lightning and it takes 10 seconds before you hear the thunder, then the lightning is 2 miles away from you )10 divided by 5 = 2 miles) If thunder is heard 5 seconds after a flash 10 seconds after a flash 15 seconds after a flash 20 seconds after a flash 25 seconds after a flash 30 seconds after a flash 35 seconds after a flash 40 seconds after a flash

The Lightning is 1 miles away 2 miles away 3 miles away 4 miles away 5 miles away 6 miles away 7 miles away 7 miles away

BUOA Policy: Begin to seek shelter if the time between the lightning flash and the rumble of thunder is 40 seconds or less. You should be in lightning position by the time the lightning flash is 6 miles away.

Do not resume activities until after 30 minutes after the last audible thunder.

LIGHTNING POSITION • • • • • • •

The safest position is to be in a crouched down position on the balls of your feel on your foam pad. Do not sit on a metal pack. Put hands on ears to minimize acoustic shock from thunder.

Do not allow your hands to other body parts to touch the ground.

Keep your feel as close to one another as possible, touching.

Avoid high places, open spaces and tall and solitary trees.

Have the group spread out approximately 20 feet apart.

Seek clumps of shrubs or trees of uniform height, ditches, trenches or the lowest ground.

Keep a high level of safety awareness for thirty minutes after the last observed lightning or thunder.

EXPECTATIONS FOR PARTICIPATION Please commit to being a contributing member of a group of 14. We expect that you will be in good physical condition and health, able to paddle upwards of six hours in a day, and camp in a primitive environment. We will enjoy meals together and divide equally all necessary camp tasks, such as carrying gear and canoes and cleaning them at the end of the trip. The penalty for possession of illegal drugs is severe. Alcohol consumption is also strictly prohibited.

CLOTHING & EQUIPMENT:

Each participant must bring only the bare essentials or what is printed on the equipment list. Please limit yourself to one duffel bag and small road bag to transport all your gear in the van and truck. Once we reach our destination, you will transfer your gear into “dry bags”. These dry bags will be provided by Baylor Outdoor Adventure and are designed to fit in your canoe and keep your gear and clothing dry.

TECHNOLOGY This trip is designed for you to spend time in the wilderness enjoying the benefits of being close to nature, getting away from it all, and being part of a group expedition. For this reason electronic music players (iPods, MP3 players, CD players, TVs, etc…) cell phones, radios, etc…will not be allowed in the backcountry. Instructors will have all phones and radios necessary should any emergency arise. You may have them for the road trip portions of Spring Break. It is always fun to share your music with the rest of the vehicle.

HEALTH & PHYSICAL CONDITIONING Paddling can be strenuous and uncomfortable at times. You’re sitting for long periods of time, maintaining a constant pace with only short breaks and sometimes without the opportunity to use a toilet or stretch out your legs.

We will be paddling 12 to 20 miles a day, which with proper instruction and technique should be a good workout, but manageable. Keeping yourself well hydrated, fueled up, and protected from the sun and wind is essential and will help keep your energy level high. Leg and foot cramps, back aches, etc. have all been common occurrences on our extended paddling trips. Stretching is essential. Eating enough food to replace calories burned is also super important. We will focus on having great meals.

NUTRITION & MEALS We love to eat on the road in small towns in the United States– the food is good and it makes sense to support the local people and economy of the communities through which we travel. Plan on this aspect of the trip being one of the most rewarding. We hope you will be amazed (as many of our trip members have been) by some of the delicious dishes we will prepare together. Common dinner meals include: pasta and cheese, chicken and rice, enchiladas, or stirfry; breakfast might offer granola, oatmeal, fruit, cream of wheat, and muffins; and drinks and desserts include cocoa, coffee, tea, lemonade mix, soup, brownies, cakes, and cobbler. Lunch food is salami, cheese, bagels, peanut butter, jelly, hummus, carrots, granola bars, and snack mix. All trip members will be asked to assist equally with preparing and clean up of all meals.

CAMPSITE ACCOMODATIONS Our River campsites will NOT have running water and bathrooms. We will be off the grid. Our group campsites may have running water and toilets, but showers are unlikely. Please be prepared to live in the elements for the duration of the trip.

STEWARDSHIP It is always important to the Baylor Outdoor Adventure program to minimize our impact on the natural environment and resources from which we derive so much enjoyment and knowledge. We will require that everyone pack out all of their trash. Included in your confirmation packet will be a handout on specific minimum impact essentials. We require that you not only read it, but also agree to practice all of the techniques. We will dispose of fecal waste by using Rafting Style Toilets on the river portion and Wag Bags or RestStop 2s during the climbing or hiking times. There may be facilities along the way, but not guaranteed. One must master the art of going the bathroom in the woods.

CANOEING COMFORT LEVEL, SKILLS, & ABILITIES If you have never paddled a canoe, we urge you to try it before committing to this trip. We will be paddling fully loaded canoes in open water. This is very different from paddling a “sit-on-top” kayak which is much more stable and easier to re-enter in the event of capsize. Our leaders need everyone to feel comfortable performing both solo and assisted recoveries. If a capsize occurs in rough or windy conditions, each of us needs to know exactly what to do for the safety of our group. With this in mind, we have planned for the first morning on the water to be a handson canoe safety skills lesson. Even if you feel you are adequately (or even over-qualified) in terms of canoeing, we require your active participation, so that we are all on the same page once the trip begins and so that our leaders can also feel comfortable with your skills. Additionally, we will welcome your assistance and tips in helping those less experienced to gain knowledge and vital skills. The topics to be covered include: Wet exits and recoveries: Knowledge of your canoe and related equipment; Paddling techniques; Group paddling safety strategies.

ROCK CLIMBING COMFORT LEVEL, SKILLS, & ABILITIES If you have never been rock climbing before we highly encourage you to take advantage of the ROCK at the SLC. We will set up routes between the 5.6 and 5.10 range to meet the ability levels of beginners to experienced climbers.

Climbing is optional, but you must stay with the group at all times if you choose not to climb.

TRIP ITINERARY PRE-TRIP MEETING: Monday, March. 3rd from 6-9pm for equipment shake-down, all medical forms, waivers, swim test, and final trip deposit due. All participants must attend. th

DAY 1- Friday, March 7 Meet at SLC at 4:00pm Depart at 5:00pm. If possible leave sooner. Drive to Campground near Lubbock, TX. Dinner will be on the road. Up early on Saturday.

DAY 2- Saturday, March 8th Wake up early. Breakfast at camp or on road- TBD. Drive to Arches National Park, Utah. On road by 7am and hopefully at Camp around 8pm. Lunch and Dinner on the road.

DAY 3- Sunday, March 9th Day Hikes in Arches National Park- See as many of the sites as we can in a day. Breakfast at Camp, pack lunch, dinner in camp. Enjoy the stars and potential campfire.

DAY 4- Monday, March 10th Meet at Tex’s Riverways for shuttle to put-in. Canoe Safety Orientation on water at the put-in at Ruby Ranch.

Shuttle pick up vehicle. River Miles- between 7 and 10 mi- depending on campsite availability. Approximately 3-4 hours paddle time. Potential hiking opportunities include: Trin Alcove and Anvil Bottom.

DAY 4 – Tuesday, March 11th Today you will paddle Trin Alcove Area to Spring Canyon. You will have the opportunity to explore petroglyphs and the river register on the way to a campsite near Spring Canyon. River Miles- 12-18 mi - approx 5-7 hours of paddling.

DAY 5- Wednesday, March 12th Today is an early day to avoid the winds and short paddle (approx. 2miles) to the overlook trail to see Bowknot Overlook. Some potential side hikes in Horseshoe Canyon or Two Mile Canyon. River Miles-11- approx. 4-5 hours.

DAY 6- Thursday, March 13th Up early and paddle to the takeout at Mineral Bottom. River Miles- 9- approx. 2 hours of paddling. Pick up for shuttle and drive back to Moab.

DAY 7- Friday, March 14th Up early, tear down camp and eat breakfast, then go rock climbing in Moab. Most likely at Wall Street Crag. Wrap up around 3 or 4pm and start our trip back south. Possible stops on the way to Albuquerque are Mesa Verde National Park and Canyonlands National Park. Goal to arrive in ABQ by 10pm.

DAY 8- Saturday, March 15th On the road early and drive 11+ hours back to Baylor. Goal to arrive by 7pm. Trip Over.

DAY 9- Sunday, March 16th Relax, Sleep in, Get ready for the Spring semester, finish papers etc…Do what you want. The trip is over.

EQUIPMENT & CLOTHING LIST               

Shade Hat – side brimmed is best. Baseball cap with bandanna covering the back of your head and neck will work in a pinch.

Warm Hat – a wool or fleece stocking cap or balaclava is wonderful if you are a “cold” sleeper or for wearing in the evening when it is cool and windy.

2 x Cotton T-shirt/shirt – cotton is wonderful to put on after a long day of paddling. Keep a shirt designated only for “camp” to avoid the saltwater chafe.

Synthetic T-Shirt for paddling- long sleeve or short sleeve is fine Synthetic Long Underwear Top – Light or Medium Weight (Capilene, Polypropylene, etc.) – will keep you warm even when wet. \ice to wear under your spray jacket as added insulation.

Wind Breaker or Nylon Shell.

Wool Sweater or Fleece Jacket/Pullover – great for in camp or if conditions get cold.

Nylon shorts: better than cotton because it dries quickly.

Synthetic Long Underwear Bottoms – Light or Medium Weight Cotton or Fleece Sweat Pants: nice to have in camp for the cool evenings.

Bathing Suit Underwear- 2-3 pair Sport sandals: The terrain around camp can be very rugged. In warmer weather sport sandals are nice to wear all the time. Keen, Chaco, Teva or similar.

Hiking Shoes/Tennis Shoes: Essential for day hikes. Something sturdy for hiking in rocky and loose environment Hiking Socks: Wool or Wool/Nylon blend.

PERSONAL EQUIPMENT         

Sunscreen, Chapstick & Hand Lotion- paddling all day can lead to cracked hands Sunglasses w/retainer strap: The sun can be extremely bright at times. A good pair that offers UV protection w/polarized lenses is recommended.

Small Towel & Toiletries: Bring what you need to feel comfortable. Fresh water will be at a premium, so bathing will be limited (we’re big fans of baby wipes).

Ziploc Bags (6) & Heavy Trash Compactor (2) come in very handy throughout the trip for numerous uses. Such as for personal garbage, wet gear, etc.

Coffee Mug, Cup, Bowl, Fork & Spoon (2) One-Quart Water Bottles. Water is your lifeline in the outdoors. Nalgene and Gatorade bottles are excellent because they will withstand someone stepping on them.

Water Bags/Hydration-Hose Systems: These are wonderful when paddling because they allow hands free access. Camelbak, Platypus or similar.

Flashlight or Headlamp with spare bulb and batteries.

Snack Food: Our motto is “Lunch begins right after breakfast”. Please keep your energy and calorie level high all day! We will provide some food for snacking, but if you have your favorite snack that helps keep your energy up- like Clif Bars, Power Bars etc… Please bring them.

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Toilet Paper in Ziploc bag: It is our goal and responsibility to leave the areas we visit in better condition than we find them. We will be asking that everyone take responsibility for packing out all of his or her toilet paper and other personal garbage ( when away from facilities of course) Camera & Film (waterproof disposable cameras work great) Journal and Pen (optional, but nice to record experience) Insect Repellant of Choice (they should not be too terribly bad) Cycling Gloves or Paddling Gloves ( helps with blisters for some folks) Binoculars (optional) nice for bird watching Wristwatch-waterproof Pillow for van ride Van Entertainment (cards, travel games, book, etc) We encourage you to try not to use your iPods, video games, etc… and get to know the other people on the trip.

PERSONAL EQUIPMENT THAT BAYLOR OUTDOOR ADVENTURE WILL PROVIDE       

2 or 3 person freestanding dome tent w/rainfly.

20° Mummy Sleeping Bag w/plastic bag lined stuff sack Ensolite Pad Large Dry Bags (4) for storing all of your gear in your canoe.

Small Dry Bag for storing your sunscreen, snacks, water, paddling jacket, etc., for easy access while paddling Rain Jacket or Pants – (Limited Supply- ONLY if you need them) Splash Jacket for paddling

GROUP EQUIPMENT THAT BAYLOR OUTDOOR ADVENTURE WILL PROVIDE:  

Expedition First Aid Kit, Canoe Repair kits, two-way radios, Canoes, paddles, drybags, and all related safety gear; all technical climbing and camping equipment.

Stoves, fuels and all cooking gear, 8 Breakfasts, 7 dinners, 7 desserts for 12 people, Water Containers-totaling over one gallon per person per day