Below is a list of frequently asked questions and our answers. To contact our summer coordinators, email them at elizabeth.deutsch@yale.edu or matthew.ramlow@yale.edu.

Why should I go on FOOT?

FOOT offers the best possible introduction to life at Yale, whether you are a first-time hiker or a NOLS graduate. There are so many reasons to go on FOOT:

--To make friends: On FOOT, you’ll make meaningful connections with a small group of other freshmen. During the first weeks of school, those friendships will be invaluable.

--To meet upperclassmen: FOOT leaders aren’t just selected for their outdoorsmanship; they’re a fun, diverse, friendly, outgoing and helpful bunch. You’ll have plenty of time on the trail to ask your leaders all those questions about academics, dorms, and life in general. They truly do know all the answers… and can really help you out.

--To try something new: Many FOOTies have never slept outside, or even hiked a trail before embarking on FOOT. We love that! You’re guaranteed to come home with a sense of accomplishment – and an appreciation for backpacking. Many of these first-time hikers enjoy the experience so much, they later apply to lead trips of their own.

--To get away from it all: Going away to college can be stressful. Spending a few days with a group of friends, enjoying the outdoors and talking is the best way to prepare for the craziness of fall semester. (Trust us – we do it every year!)

--TO HAVE FUN! Most importantly, we have a blast on each and every trip. That’s why so many people do FOOT year after year – you’re going to have a great time.

But I’ve never slept outside, and I’m really out of shape! Isn’t FOOT really hardcore?

That’s okay! The majority of FOOT trips are not “hardcore” – they range from strenuous to very easy. You do not have to be a superman to enjoy it. All you have to do is specify which kind of trip you’d like and we’ll place you accordingly. Also, you do not need ANY hiking or outdoors experience whatsoever. Leaders are trained to take care of the logistics, and teach you the skills as you go. Many FOOT leaders had never been hiking before their first FOOT trips, either. (And now they can’t get enough!) If you're looking for a very mild trip, we recommend that you choose the Blue Trail, as it is fairly flat.

I'm a certified strongman! What trip should I take?

If you are looking for a more rugged trip, we recommend the White Mountains or the Catskills. But don't expect it to be the challenge of a lifetime! Almost everyone could finish every trip we offer.

Is there electricity available?

There is no electricity available in the backcountry. (Don’t worry, you won’t need it!)

What about showers?

No, there are no showers in the backcountry. However, in twenty-three years of trips, no one has yet suffered permanent injury due to going a few days without showering. When you arrive on Old Campus at the end of your trip, you’ll be accompanied by approximately 500 other hikers – so there’s no need to worry about sticking out. You’ll be able to shower the second you get onto campus.

While on the trip, can I smoke, drink, do non-medical drugs, listen to my mp3 player, or bring a firearm?

NO!

Can I be on the same trip as my friend?

Now, why would you want to do that? You have all four years to hang out with your friends, why not spend your time on FOOT meeting new ones?

What safety precautions are taken on FOOT trips?

As one of the oldest and best-attended pre-orientation programs at Yale, we regard safety as our highest priority. All FOOT leaders are trained in CPR and Wilderness First Aid. While in the backcountry, groups will not be hiking on unmarked trails and will not be far from local rangers. At each stop location, FOOT leaders have detailed descriptions of the quickest evacuation routes. Support crews consisting of trained leaders check in with each group multiple times during the trip. FOOT leaders are required to carry their mobile phones (which often have service at the top and bottom of mountains) so that they can contact local emergency responders, support crews, and the Yale campus in case of emergency. FOOT leaders also carry a fully-stocked First Aid kit.

If you have any other questions regarding safety on the FOOT trips, please contact the FOOT summer coordinator.

I had knee surgery recently. Will I be able to attend FOOT?

The decision is ultimately up to you and your doctor, but we recommend that students with sensitive knees try the Yale Forest Blue Trail. The Blue Trail provides as challenging a hiking experience as any trip, but the trails are less steep when climbing and descending. Keep in mind that you will be carrying a heavy backpack while climbing difficult terrain. If you do decide to stop in the middle of your FOOT trip, we have support crews that will bring you back to campus.

I have special dietary needs/allergies. Will this affect my trip?

All FOOT food is vegetarian. We choose food that is easy to prepare, won't go bad during the trip, and provides the energy necessary for days filled with hiking and other outdoor activities. With that in mind, we also strive to prepare creative and yummy meals – after all, we have to eat them too! Our menus have been refined by over twenty years of backpackers, so you can trust that you’ll be getting the best! If you require kosher meals, please let us know your dietary restrictions and we will accommodate you. Please contact us as soon as possible if you have dietary restrictions not listed here, and we will be happy to plan appropriate meals.

I don’t think I can afford FOOT. I should just not apply, right?

No! Financial aid is available for FOOT. We process financial aid requests through Yale’s Financial Aid office, so please just indicate that you would like financial aid on your application.

FOOT is too expensive! Do I have to buy ALL that equipment on the list?

No! FOOT is not the time to look cool with all new equipment and all new clothes. As a matter of fact, the most experienced of backpackers know that well-worn, comfortable, and functional items are the most useful. Don’t buy a new wool sweater! Bring hand-me-downs or the one that your dad never wears. Don’t buy nylon straps! Bring rope that is lying around your garage. Don’t buy Nalgene bottles! Empty Gatorade bottles will definitely do.

Suggestions for the most expensive equipment:
--Rent or borrow a backpack and sleeping bag.
--Buy an inexpensive sleeping pad at Wal-Mart or Target. Anything that will keep you insulated from the ground while sleeping will do.
--Buy inexpensive, but comfortable boots. Find boots on clearance, on sale, or at the army-navy store. Make sure they are solid enough for climbing rocks, supportive for your ankles, and comfortable for your feet. Most importantly, break them in! Students who buy fancy new boots without breaking them in are guaranteed to have the most painful blisters they’ve ever had.

Can I bring my own backpack?

Yes, but make sure it has a frame, either external or internal. Also, make sure the waist belt fits comfortably around your entire waist. Capacity should be at least 3500 cubic inches. And above all else, make sure it is comfortable while completely filled; you will be carrying your backpack with all your clothes and extra group gear, so make sure you’re comfortable!

How heavy is a backpack?

It depends on how much you bring, how much group gear you are carrying, and how much water you are carrying, but on average, a full backpack can weigh anywhere from 30 to 40 pounds. That might seem heavy, but we will help you fit the backpack so the weight is distributed evenly. Also, we will show you how to put on something that heavy without hurting your back!

What sizes of backpacks do you have for rent?

The backpacks are fully adjustable, so they can fit a wide range of body sizes, but the general sizing is described below:
-Small = 5’5” and below
-Medium = 5’6” to 5’10”
-Medium-Large = 5’10” and 5’11”
-Large = 6’ and up

Your FOOT leaders will spend time helping you choose and adjust your backpack to make sure it fits correctly.

Does the rental sleeping bag come with a stuff sack?

Yes, but it doesn’t hurt to bring another stuff sack to keep your sleeping bag extra dry and to have another bag available for hanging our food up in bear bags.

Is FOOT the coolest pre-orientation program at Yale?

YES! GET PUMPED! YOU’RE GOING TO HAVE A BLAST!