Fire and Ice Expedition

Greetings Winter Wanderer,

You are not like most men. You see, most men seek comfort when the thermometer dips toward zero and the snow starts flying. But that’s not you. The sophisticated man hunkers down at the local coffee shop on these blustery days, but not you. No, you are a bit of a primitive man, a man who embraces the biting cold, just to experience the most silent and exquisite of all seasons, winter!

If this is indeed the man you are, or that you want to be, we invite you to join us for a winter backpack trip to the snow covered grassy bald known as Whigg Meadow. At nearly a mile high and with 360-degree unobstructed views, you can see nearly forever during the day, and to the ends of the universe at night! It’s a place where you can’t help but feel closer to God.  And, while we can’t promise you snow, we can promise you an outdoor experience that will be free of heat, bugs, and crowds!

Complete Information:

CLICK HERE to view Jeremy Rowland’s “Whiteout” photoblog to see what you might expect!

CLICK HERE for Expedition Planner and Required Forms

CLICK HERE to register for the Fire and Ice Expedition.  Registration deadline is January 12.

 

So, if this adventure interests you, clear your calendar, pack your bags, and let’s go!

 

Think Snow! 

Marty D. Miller 

Blueprint for Men, Inc.  

Mobile      423.322.8491  

Email     marty@blueprintformen.org   

Website    www.blueprintformen.org   

 

Tentative Schedule 

Saturday 

12:00 pm    Meet at the Men’s Outpost/Drive to Mountains

3:00             Arrive at Mud Gap Trailhead

4:00             Setup Camp

5:00             Supper 

6:00             Evening Campfire Worship

7:00             Night Activities 

10:00           Hit the Sack! 

 

Sunday 

8:00 am     Break camp and hike back to trailhead 

10:00         Breakfast in Tellico Plains  

1:00 pm     Arrive back home 

 

Weather Forecast 

To keep track of conditions you can CLICK HERE

 

Winter Backpacking List 

General Backpacking & Camping Gear 

  • Large backpack (4,500 + cubic inches) 
  • Sleeping bag (rated to a min. of 0° F) 
  • TWO Sleeping pads or one very thick one… you will be sleeping on snow! 
  • 3+ season tent  
  • Stove w/fuel 
  • Cooking kit 
  • Lighter/matches 
  • Cooking Utensils 
  • 2 water bottles  
  • Zip-lock bags for stuff 

Clothing 

  • Waterproof/breathable jacket and pants 
  • Medium-heavyweight insulating layer 
  • Heavy-weight fleece jacket  
  • Insulated parka 
  • Quick-dry underwear 
  • Quick-dry T-shirt 
  • Heavy mitts or gloves 
  • Liner gloves 
  • 2 pair of synthetic liner socks 
  • 2 pair of wool socks 
  • Gaiters  
  • Warm cap 

Misc. Personal Items 

  • Small first aid kit 
  • Sunglasses  
  • Sunscreen (SPF 30+) 
  • Lip balm 
  • Headlamp 
  • Extra batteries 
  • Ear plugs for tent flap wind noise 
  • Toilet paper 
  • Deodorant 
  • Pack towel