Qualifying + Conditioning Hike - Palmer Sec 16

**PLEASE READ THIS WHOLE POST BEFORE RSVPing.** If you do not have micro spikes please invest in some now. They will be required to participate as we will not know the ice situation of the whole trail. Hike is weather dependent. This is a qualifying hike to participate in upcoming backpacking events with Colorado Springs Backpackers (COSBP). If you have a dog you want to bring backpacking, your dog must also qualify. Friendly, well behaved, leashed dogs welcome. If you have already qualified, you are welcome to participate if you are interested in doing a conditioning hike. You only have to complete a qualifying hike once unless it's been more than 8 months since last participating in a COSBP trip or hike. Before being able to participate in this hike you must fill out a waiver - [https://forms.gle/3DzXeRDJziLAZ8nJ7](https://forms.gle/3DzXeRDJziLAZ8nJ7) **What it takes to qualify:** 1 - Carry a full backpacking pack for the whole hike that weighs at **least 24 pounds.** I suggest you pack it as you would if you were actually backpacking. I DO NOT suggest carrying actual weights as it will be too unevenly distributed and awkward. We will weigh packs. 2 - Finish the hike without any major problems. 3 - You know and can communicate about when you need to take a break. 4 - No pace requirement. 5 - Good attitude - gets along well with people. **Hike Route:** distance: **5.83mi** range: 6626' to 7854'gross: +1301'-1301' [https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/palmer-trail](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/palmer-trail) [https://caltopo.com/m/70KABCK](https://caltopo.com/m/70KABCK)