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What the "ruck"?

Ruck is the German word for Backpacking, and has been used through the trail community as a name for an event that helps you get out and backpack.

This day-long event is designed for all sorts of backpackers (from novice to expert) to prepare themselves for the hiking season. The primary focus is on attendees looking to set out on their first long-distance hike be it on the Camino de Santiago, Pacific Crest, Continental Divide, Timberline, Wonderland, or John Muir Trail.

Whether you are on trail for a few days or several months, if you’re hiking this summer, this is the event to attend! In the past, ALDHA-West has hosted Rucks in Idaho, Stevenson, Washington, Sedro-Woolley, Washington, the California Bay Area, and Golden, Colorado. 

  • The Gathering 2025 (Cal-Wood - Jamestown, CO)
    The Gathering 2025 (Cal-Wood - Jamestown, CO)
    Sep 26, 2025, 2:00 PM MDT – Sep 28, 2025, 12:00 PM MDT
    Jamestown, 2282 Co Rd 87, Jamestown, CO 80455, USA
    The weekend includes world-class guest speakers, the Triple Crown Award Ceremony, Martin D. Papendick Award, our LEGENDARY Gear Raffle, General Membership Meeting, and more. More information can be found via registration button
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