This list is recommended for hikes in late spring, summer, and fall where you will not encounter any snow or ice on the trail.

Download and print the packing list

General Gear:

  • Day pack with hip belt
  • Hiking footwear:
    • Sturdy boots (recommended)
    • Trail runners
  • Hiking socks:
    • Thick wool socks
    • Thin wicking liner
  • Watch or similar
  • Toilet Paper
    • WAG bags if in sensitive environments
    • Kula/pee cloth
  • Small Trowel
  • Warm Clothing
    • Long Pants
    • Long Sleeved shirt
    • gloves/mittens
    • hat
  • Extra socks

Optional Gear:

  • Rain cover for pack 
  • Trekking poles
  • Gaiters
  • Sunglasses
  • Camera/Phone
  • GPS device
  • Satellite device (inReach or similar)
  • Battery pack and cable

10 essentials:

  • Paper map and compass
    • GPS/Phone does not replace
  • Rain Gear
    • Jacket & pants or Poncho
  • Headlamp x 2
    • 1 set of extra batteries
  • First Aid kit
  • Emergency kit
    • whistle / signal mirror / bright cloth
    • knife
    • duct tape
    • paracord
    • zip ties
  • Fire Starting Material
    • matches
    • lighter
    • fire starters
  • Food for the hike
    • Trail mix / snack food
    • Lunch
  • Water
    • At least 2 L
    • Means of purifying
  • Sun protection
  • Insect protection
  • Emergency shelter
    • Emergency blanket
    • Emergency bivy

Notes:

  • Water purification can be chemical tablets or a filter device like the Sawyer Squeeze, LifeStraw, or a pump. Everyone should have a method to purify in the event they get separated from the group and need clean water. Chemical tablets are small, and can easily be added to a first aid kit.
  • Check the expiration dates on the things in your first aid kit, water purification tablets, sun block, bug repellent, and food. Replace if needed.
  • Check that your headlamps work. Yes, you need 2 means of light, have you tried changing batteries in the dark?
  • Rain jacket and pants can double as your long sleeve shirt/pants. If above tree line and windy, you will want this.