Hit the Trail with the New Lend a Pack Program in Lincoln County

Looking to get outside this summer but don’t have the gear? We’ve got you covered.

Starting June 1, 2025, folks across Lincoln County can borrow trail-ready backpacks—completely free—thanks to the brand-new Lend a Pack Program. It’s a simple, community-supported way to make outdoor exploration more accessible for families, kids, and adults of all experience levels.

Whether you’re hiking your favorite trail in the Scotchmans or exploring somewhere new, these packs are filled with the essentials you need to get out there safely and confidently.

Where to Find Them

Backpacks will be available at all three Lincoln County Library branches—Libby, Troy, and Eureka. Each branch will have a mix of adult and kid packs available to check out.

• Adult Packs include gear like bear spray, a bear canister, trekking poles, trail maps, a first aid kit, and more.
• Kid Packs are filled with fun tools for discovery, including a compass, magnifying glass, bug-catching case, field guides, and child-sized trekking poles.

The gear has been thoughtfully selected by Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness, funded through a grant from the LOR Foundation, and will be housed and managed by the Lincoln County Library throughout the season.

How to Borrow a Backpack

It’s easy to get started:

1. Visit your local Lincoln County Library (Libby, Troy, or Eureka)
2. Have a valid library card
3. Sign a short Borrower Agreement
4. Get outside and enjoy!

Backpacks can be checked out for up to 14 days, and the last day to check one out will be October 1, 2025. All backpacks must be returned by October 15. The program will return next spring, running April 1 through September 30 in future seasons.

Designed for Everyone

This program is all about breaking down barriers to the outdoors. Whether you’re gearing up for your first hike or introducing your kids to the wonders of the woods, the Lend a Pack Program makes it a little easier to get out the door and into nature.

Send Us Your Photos – Win a Hat!

We want to see where your backpack takes you! Snap a photo on your adventure and email it to info@scotchmanpeaks.org. Every person who submits a photo (limit one per person) will be entered into a raffle at the end of the season to win a Friends of Scotchman Peaks hat.

This program is made possible through the collaboration of Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness, the Lincoln County Library, and the generous support from the LOR Foundation. We’re proud to help more people connect with the incredible public lands that make this place so special.

See you on the trail!