06/09/2026
🥾Bloodroot Trail - 2026 CIWC Beginner Backpacking Trip Writeup
The trip was a great success, with six participants and two leaders enjoying a beautiful spring overnight along Salamonie Lake. Although rain had been forecast for much of the weekend, the weather timing worked out nearly perfectly. We were able to set up camp, cook dinner, and spend the evening together before a beautiful sunset over the lake. Temperatures stayed comfortable and, surprisingly, mosquitoes were minimal.
Because the hike to camp was relatively short, participants had plenty of time to settle in, explore camp life, and try new skills in a relaxed environment. Several different backpacking stove systems were demonstrated and used throughout the evening, giving newer backpackers the opportunity to compare setups and ask questions. Participants also practiced knots, discussed food storage and campcraft, and helped build a small campfire despite damp conditions.
One of the highlights of the evening was seeing connections form naturally across the group. Around the fire, participants discovered shared interests spanning multiple generations, including Dungeons & Dragons, gaming, and other “nerddom,” which led to lots of laughter and conversation.
The group also enjoyed several memorable wildlife moments. We caught multiple sightings of a juvenile bald eagle near the lake, and heard barred owls calling after dark.
Sunday, the rain held out until we returned to the car park. The trails were muddy from the previous rains, but the group handled the wet conditions well and maintained positive attitudes throughout the hike out. Overall, the trip provided a welcoming introduction to backpacking skills, camp life, and outdoor community for newer hikers while also creating space for experienced backpackers to share knowledge and stories.
- Trip Co-Leader, Diana
