Things to Remember
- Plan your trip carefully.
- Learn about the area ahead of time.
- Never hike alone. We recommend at least three people in a party.
- Carry out what you carry in.
- Keep dry and warm.
- Wear proper foot wear (flip flops won't cut it).
- Pack sunscreen, insect repellent and/or a head net.
- Pack a map and compass.
- Even if it's a day trip, pack a flashlight, extra batteries, waterproof matches and a whistle.
- Always bring water!
- Stay properly hydrated and drink plenty of fluids during strenuous activity
- Have a snack packed
Clothing for the Seasons
Summer - lightest weight, the thinnest, the least warm.
- Wicking tee: polypropylene or polyester
- Fleece jacket or wool sweater
- Shorts or pants: Synthetic fabric
- Hooded shell jacket and pants: For wind and water protection
- Hat and mittens: Can be necessary on summits
- Socks (Light wicking inner socks and heavier outer socks, plus dry spares)
- Boots (Hiking boots with good support and tread. Trails here are very rugged and sneakers are not recommended)
- Gaiters: to keep mud, water and rocks out of your boots
Winter - durable and warm.
- A layer of wicking underwear, tops and bottoms.
- Insulation: outerwear, must be impervious to wind and snow.
- Jackets and hoodies
- Additional pieces of clothing you will need include a pile or wool hat, mittens and overmitts
(no gloves, mitts are much warmer), neck gaitor or face mask, wool socks, and gaitors.
In the Winter, do not wear cotton!
Cotton does not insulate once it is wet. Instead, it wicks heat away from your body and contributes to hypothermia. Hypothermia is not just a concern in the winter. Depending on weather conditions, it is possible to become hypothermic in any season, including summer. For example, cold rain or being wet at night when the temperature has dropped can both cause hypothermia. Jeans, cotton tees, and sweatshirts are dangerous and should not be worn.