DCHP-2

jumping-off place DCHP-1 (pre-1967)

• 1

  a point on a trail, waterway, etc. where the route changes in nature or direction, marking a new leg of the journey.

  See also: leavings  

• 2a — Esp. North

  a place, usually a town, where one leaves the railway or other link with civilization to proceed into the wilderness.

  See also: jumping-off point (def. 1)  jumping-off spot  jumping-off town  jump-off point  kicking-off place  

• 2b

  any starting place.

  See also: jumping-off point (def. 2)  

• 3 † 

  any place considered the ultimate in isolated, undeveloped wilderness.