Day Hike

Packing List:

See also the packing lists in the Boy Scout Handbook
It is possible for temperatures to get below 20 degrees Fahrenheit in mid-October, and snow is possible so pack accordingly. Also prepare for the possibility of rain.

• Duffle bag or internal frame backpack to pack gear in
• Warm Mummy Sleeping Bag
• Warm Non-Cotton shorts, pants and shirts (temperatures could range from 0 to 40° Fahrenheit)
• Long Underwear tops and bottoms
• Fleece pullover or jacket—synthetic not cotton
• Extra layer of clothes
• Rain Gear jacket and pants
• Wool or Fleece Hat
• Gloves not cotton
• Wool socks and extra wool socks (cotton socks will not be allowed on the hike!)
• Nylon liner socks
• Water bottles (at least 2 liters) or camel pack
• Sunglasses
• Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
• Mess kit
• Bag dinner for Friday to eat on the drive up
• Bag lunch and trail snacks for Saturday
• $5-$10 cash for lunch on the drive home
• Hiking boots that fit properly and have been broken in (waterproof boots are best)
• The Troop will supply tents, stoves, and cooking pots

Why not cotton? When living outside it is important to stay dry. Unfortunately cotton is great at absorbing moisture from sweat or the weather. Moisture in cotton socks causes blisters. Moisture in pants and shirts can lead to hypothermia on cool, windy or rainy days. Alternatives to cotton include polypropylene, synthetic fleece or pile, wool, Smartwool, Polartec, Underarmor, nylon, or polyester. Cost is no longer as big an issue as choices have grown and prices have come down.

Weather: Anticipate cool and wet conditions. Even if it is warm and dry at the bottom of a mountain, the top can be cold and windy and storms can blow in quickly. For this reason, a wool or fleece cap, jacket and socks are best. Wool and fleece can get wet and still keep you warm, whereas cotton will not. Come prepared for sunny weather too with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat with a brim. Do not forget full water bottles, as it will be essential to drink plenty.

Raingear: Prepare for the possibility of rain. Quality rain gear (jacket and pants) is important for staying dry. Acceptable raingear is available at local discount stores (Kmart, Wal-Mart) for $10 to $30. Avoid the cheap under $10 flimsy raingear and ponchos that rip easily. The material, whether coated nylon or other synthetic fabric, should be waterproof and lightweight. Water repellent fabrics and windbreakers will not keep you dry in heavy rain.

Boots: Good boots are a hikers best friend. Basic waterproof hiking boots (not work boots) are best. They should have good ankle support and fit comfortably. If you have ankle weakness, you should have a boot with more arch or ankle support. Wear new boots around as much as possible beforehand. Good hiking socks (not cotton) keep your feet warm when wet and prevent blisters. Nylon sock liners can help prevent blisters.

Daypack: While this is not an overnight backpacking trip, you will need a daypack to carry extra clothes, rain gear, first aid kit, water, lunch, trail snacks, toilet paper, and other gear. The pack must fit properly and be relatively comfortable. Line the inside of your pack with two trash bags to keep contents dry if it rains. Zip lock bags can be used to keep smaller items dry.

Sleeping Bag and Pad: A medium lightweight synthetic or down fill sleeping bag rated to zero or 20 degrees Fahrenheit is recommended. A small sleeping pad adds comfort and keeps you warmer at night by providing insulation from the cold ground.

Meals: Bring a bag dinner for Friday, a lunch for Saturday, and trail snacks. Group meals include Saturday breakfast, which will be quick, Saturday dinner, and Sunday breakfast. Saturday lunch will be on the trail and can be a sandwich, salami stick, or cheese and crackers. Trail snacks can include granola bars, GORP, nuts, M&Ms, fruit, or dried fruit. A hot beverage such as hot chocolate or tea is good for morning and night. We will stop at a fast food restaurant for lunch on the drive home.