<p>My S is considering signing up for the hiking trek but was concerned that he could not shower or " rise" off for a week. Are there streams that they can bath in ? Also, how strenuous is the hiking and how much equipment is needed? Do they carry all their gear ? He was also thinking about the canoe trip and is unsure which one to choose. Any advice? </p>
<p>I can’t help, but I have been wondering about the gear for the various trips as well. They seem particularly intent on not sharing that info until you’ve signed up, but I think I will contact them and see if they will give me the info. We don’t own much in the way of technical camping gear or clothing, and I don’t want to commit to a trip only to learn that he needs hundreds of dollars worth of equipment he may never use again.</p>
<p>Yes, they carry all of their gear as well as a portion of the group’s food. I believe it’s fairly strenuous. Here’s a link to the hiking packing list - <a href=“Department of Student Life | Department of Student Life | The University of Vermont”>Department of Student Life | Department of Student Life | The University of Vermont. They’re strict about making sure the kids have everything. I believe that you are able to borrow (or rent?) some of the items. We’re campers and backpackers so we had most things, but we did need to get a few. We order almost all of our outdoor gear and clothing through SierraTradingPost.com. If you sign up to be on their e-mail list, you will get regular (awesome) discount codes. If you go with the hiking trip, make sure you get a good pack and good hiking boots (that are worn beforehand). Decent rain gear is particularly important too, but I believe that’s one of the things that can be borrowed/rented. Not sure though.</p>
<p>Funny story (now anyway). Halfway up to Burlington, DS realized he had left his hiking boots at home in the foyer. After a brief panic, we realized we were headed to Burlington after all, and they would surely have stores up there selling hiking gear. We ended up at Outdoor Gear Exchange, explained our situation, and ended up with the softest, “bendiest” hiking boots we could find. Turns out he loves them more than his regular ones - felt completely broken in from the get-go. That is a WONDERFUL store that I now visit every time I’m in town; I could spend all day there! They also sell used equipment and clothing in their downstairs area. Website is gearx.com and I believe the store was founded by a UVM grad.</p>
<p>Thank you! </p>