DALTON, Mass. — Hikers can soon rent a backpack full of beginner hiking material at the Dalton Free Public Library. 

 

Berkshire Family Hikes founder Taylor Staubach said the endeavor will be launched with a hike of the Pines with the town's Open Space and Recreation Committee. 

 

Staubach is still in the process of planning the event but hopes to have it on a weekend in mid-May. 

 

The organization's Uncommon Paths Program was approved for a $648 grant through the Cultural Council in November. The program includes a backpack-borrowing initiative.

 

The endeavor will allow library card holders to rent a backpack at the Dalton Library at no cost. Hikers can rent the bag for one week. 

 

The pack will be filled with materials a beginner hiker will find useful, including a first aid kit, binoculars, compass, and more. The library will have two bags available. 

 

Although hikers can bring the bag to other hiking destinations in the area, Staubach wanted to find a way to incorporate the Pines into the program because of its accessibility. 

 

"I feel like it serves that dual purpose to really raise the awareness of that property and its newness, and its inclusiveness for all mobilities," Staubach said. 

 

"I also think I'm not opposed to people wanting to take it up to the Appalachian Trail or the Boulders either or even outside of Dalton, but it's really aimed at creating a community initiative to encourage people to get outdoors."