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Equipment List

Prepare for the Worst…Plan for the Best!!!

 

FOOD AND DRINK:

  • Water – (minimum of two quarts recommended, in a leak proof, unbreakable container).

  • Lunch items and quick energy snacks; hot drink in thermos during cold weather is a good idea

 

CLOTHING AND GEAR:

  • Hiking Boots:Heavy construction, comfortably snug, broken in, weatherproofed. Both low cut and ankle high are acceptable. It’s a good idea to wear different shoes to and from the trail head instead of those you hike in. This keeps the cars clean plus it’s great to have sandals or other shoes to wear after a hike. Bring a bag to put your hiking boots in to avoid getting mud or moisture in drivers’ cars. Sneakers, all sandals are NOT acceptable.

  • Socks: One pair each of lightweight inner and heavy wool outer socks or equivalent.

  • Pants: Constructed to be loose, comfortable, quick drying. Preferably no jeans!! Remember the truism: Cotton Kills!!

  • Thermal Underwear (winter): Polypropylene or other synthetic material

  • Shirts: Preferably synthetic fabrics with good insulating and quick-drying capability.

  • Sweaters: Wool or fleece is recommended.

  • Jacket: Wind and water-proof, hooded; large enough for layering.

  • Hat: Suitable for retaining body heat and providing shade.

  • Mittens/Gloves: Wool, fleece or waterproof

  • Rain gear: poncho or rain parka/pants (zipper at foot is a useful feature).

  • Backpack: Should be large enough to hold your necessary items. One with both a waist and chest strap work best.

  • Sun Protection: Sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses.

 

OPTIONAL ITEMS SUGGESTED FOR EXTRA SAFETY AND COMFORT:

  • Trekking poles

  • Small foam pad to sit on

  • Space blanket

  • Gaiters: Provide good ankle and leg protection in snow, mud, heavy brush

  • 2 or 3 large plastic trash bags (can be used to reinforce your shelter, as additional rain gear, etc.)

  • Nylon cord (to help set up temporary shelter)

  • Fire starting materials: wind and water-proof matches or lighter

  • Pocketknife, small scissors

  • Tick/mosquito repellant

  • Toilet paper/tissue (only if you take it out in a plastic bag; don’t leave behind; don’t bury)

  • First Aid kit: moleskin, Band-Aids, gauze, ace bandage, 2 triangular bandages, needles, tweezers, and antibiotic ointment

  • Extra clothing such as wool sweater or shirt, extra socks, gloves

  • Handkerchief/scarf; extra bootlaces

  • Flashlight/headlamp (extra bulb & batteries)

  • Drinking cup, tea bags/bouillon

  • Energy snacks/survival food (avoid needing to mix with water)

  • Whistle (plastic for winter use)

  • Map of hike area, compass, GPS unit

  • Equipment repair tape

  • Cell phone, name & phone number of person to contact in an emergency situation

  • Personal ID; medical insurance card, CORSAR card

  • Extra plastic bags for trash along the trail

  • YakTrax, etc. for boots when trail may be icy/snow-covered in winter or spring

  • Duct tape – good for most anything!!

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