The mountain environment is characterized by variable and unpredictable weather. To help in your success on the program we offer the following suggested equipment list. For the time spent outside, dressing in several layers rather than one heavy layer allows you more flexibility as the weather changes. We expect the weather to be changeable – from cool mornings and evenings, to hot sun, and even rain showers. Stick to the list and you won't be disappointed!
Please pack as light as you feel you can get away with. The program goes fast, and everything you pack needs to be carried to a boat, ferried across the lake, carried to a tent cabin, looked after, carried back to a boat, ferried across the lake...You probably don't need a change of clothing for every day, especially in the backcountry.
Hiking shoes. We suggest not to purchase footwear online, you really need to stick your foot in a shoe to find the perfect fit. A common equipment problem on the program is people bring old shoes that they haven't worn for years and then they have problems with blisters or the shoes falling apart. Don't skimp on your footwear! Trail running shoes or "light hiking boots" are ideal, but avoid minimalist shoes. Examples we like include: La Sportiva Ultra Raptor (men's) (women's) is a great shoe that is a tad narrow. A wider shoe is the La Sportiva Karacal (men's) (women's). People also love the Topo Ultraventure Pro (men's) (women's).
Do not plan on using new or untested footwear on the program!
Many people like to add a gaiter to their shoe – basically a gasket between the shoe and your ankle. The purpose is to keep dirt and debris out of your shoe. Examples.
Waterproof rain jacket (pants optional but nice to have): Yes, really - please don't go without raingear, or it's sure to rain! “Gore-Tex”, or other waterproof/ breathable materials are great; coated nylon is less expensive and acceptable. This is our raingear collection. If you are really skeptical of the need for raingear at least bring an inexpensive poncho.
Light sweater or jacket good for those chilly evenings or mornings. Nothing too heavy, for a layering approach. Examples can be found at Men's outerwear or Women's outerwear
*A last minute addition to your clothing pile could be a warmer jacket if it's forecast to be on the chilly side, or if your trip is in September. The Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody is an example.
Long underwear tops and bottoms - These are your ace in the hole layer if it gets chilly, and they serve as pajamas at the resort as well as in the backcountry. Lightweight long sleeve top and bottom are pretty great to have along. Men's Women's
Long sleeve light weight shirt for sun protection. Go to the thrift store or at the other end of the spectrum are shirts like these.
Swim suit – there is no open water for swimming in the backcountry, but at our Lodge is Gold Lake, a perfect place for a dip
Socks – several pair for the hike; a few pair for around camp
Warm hat: Knit hat for warmth
Sun hat for sun protection
Mittens or gloves for the cold. Example - nothing fancy, but really nice to have when it gets chilly.
Sun gloves (optional; but nice to keep the harsh sun off the hands).
Personal clothes: long comfy pants, shorts, T Shirts, etc. Very Casual!
Sandals OR running shoes - something for lounging around camp
Glasses and or contacts as needed
Toilet kit (sunscreen, lip sunscreen, tooth brush, paste, floss, etc)
Sun glasses with keeper-strap
Pajamas (your call on this one, long unds top and bottom will suffice)
Prescription medicines as required
Head lamp with fresh and spare batteries (example)
Chair for backcountry
Optional:
- Down jacket or vest
- ALF Journal and a pen
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Trekking Poles
- Musical Instrument
- Surprises to share
Provided, but feel free to bring your own:
Day Hiking pack (yours should be something like this, in the 25 - 35 liter capacity range)
Sleeping Bag (25º to 40º rating would be sufficient)
Sleeping Pad - something compact preferably.
We provide tents and expect two people to share a three person tent. Respectfully, if you have your own tent there may not be room in the camp area for it, unless you are willing to share. There is room to sleep out if so desired.