Hiking Basics

Packing List for Day Hikes

  1. Water is the most important thing to have-you never want to run out!

    • On short hikes that you expect to take 3 1/2 hours or less 1 liter per person is often sufficient

    • On longer day hikes bring two liters per person

    • Consider bringing a filter, UV sterilizer, or tablets for really long days.

    • Remember if its hot and sunny-you’ll drink way more water

  2. Food

    1. Lunches, snacks, and other meals as needed. It never hurts to have some snacks, even for a short trip

    2. Bread tends to get smushed-wraps are often a better option

    3. Try to eat in small quantities often, not one massive meal on the summit.

  3. First-Aid kit including the following basics

    1. Bandages and wipes for cuts and scrapes

    2. Moleskin or duct tape for blisters

    3. ibuprofen (Advil) and Bennadryl

    4. Most commercially available first-aid kits contain everything needed for a day hike

  4. Light Source

    • Even if you don’t plan on hiking at night, it’s important to have a light source in case something goes wrong. Headlamps are preferred, as they allow you to be hands-free. Hiking by your cell phone flashlight is not a viable option.

  5. Extra Clothing

    • Though not as important in the summer, it’s important to have enough layers to stay warm. Additionally, temperatures can vary greatly as elevation changes, so the right amount of clothes should be brought for summits. See our clothing and layering page

  6. Sturdy Shoes

    • Supportive running shoes or athletic shoes can work for shorter and less intense hikes, but trail runners or boots are recommended for longer or more technical terrain

  7. Sunscreen and Bug Spray

  8.   Map and compass

    • Use a high-quality paper map (with compass) or dedicated mapping software on your phone, such as Alltrails or Gaia gps.

  9.  Knife or multi-tool (strongly recommended)

  10.  Appropriate backpack

    • A backpack designed for hiking is much better than alternatives, like a school backpack, but a string bag or gym bag will work in a pinch

Additional Gear for Winter Hiking

  1. Warm clothing

    • It’s essential that one stays warm and dry while winter hiking. Waterproof, or at least water-resistant gloves are a must, while a hat is also important. It’s also crucial to have wool or synthetic socks that dry easily. It’s often best to prepare for temperatures about 5-10 degrees lower than the lowest you expect to see. For instance, if at the summit of a peak the temperature will be 25 degrees, while in the valley it is 30, one should plan for 20 degree temperatures or perhaps colder, based on wind chill

    • Layering is also important – one should have multiple layers, and waterproof/windproof layers on the outside

  2. Microspikes

    • These are an extremely helpful way to gain extra traction in snowy/icy areas. They can’t be trusted on very icy sections like crampons, but should be the minimum gear used for winter travel. 

  3. Snowshoes

    • These are essential for trekking through deep snow (above six inches), as they help to increase the speed and ease of travel greatly. In some parks, they are required given a certain snow depth, as they help to maintain a usable trail. 

  4. Crampons

    • These are attached to the bottom of a pair of boots and are needed for icy or otherwise technical terrain in winter. The use of Crampons is an advanced skill and should not be undertaken without proper group experience.

  5. Ice axe

    • This tool is very useful in more technical terrain to give additional support and as a safety measure. If you are using crampons, you should probably have an ice axe.

  6. Gaiters

    • These are extremely helpful in keeping snow out of socks and boots and should be brought for most treks in snow