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Hiking Trail

The 10 Essentials

These 10 essentials should always be carried with you into the backcountry. This list is designed to help you survive an emergency whether it's a few hours, one day or several.

  1. Navigation (map, compass, GPS, extra batteries)

  2. Insulation (Weather protection; rain pants/jacket, extra clothes, hat, gloves, large plastic bag, no cotton ) 

  3. Illumination (two) headlamp, flashlight, extra batteries) 

  4. Personal Protection - sunscreen, first aid, medications, clear/dark glasses, bug repellent  

  5. Fire (waterproof matches, fire starter, saw, knife) 

  6. Signaling Devices - cell phone with backup battery charger, mirror, whistle 

  7. Repair kit and tools (specific to the adventure and season) 

  8. Nutrition (extra food for 24 hour, high calorie, won't freeze or spoil) 

  9. Hydration (extra water, means to filter or purification tablets) 

  10. Emergency shelter (reflective waterproof tarp, bivy sack, extra large leaf bag, cord)

Best Practices

  • Know how to find your coordinate location on your phone or GPS

  • Check the weather before you leave and do your homework on the route you choose. 

  • Travel with  another person. 

  • Leave written travel details - route/trail you are taking, expected timeline, who is in group, and when you expect to return.

  • Stay together and stick to your plan... Stay the Trail.

  • When in doubt, Dial 911 sooner than later. It's just a phone call, make it.

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