Pick long, loose-fitting clothing: This will help protect you from the sun, insects, and irritative plants.

Prioritize neutral colored clothes: It will keep you cooler and attract less bugs than more colorful options.

Wear vapor- and sweat-wicking clothes: This includes merino wool or synthetic fabrics (like polyester).

Avoid clothing made from cotton: It holds onto sweat, putting you at a higher risk of hypothermia, and can chafe.

The right shoes can make all the difference!

Good Grip is Key: Look for shoes with soles that have deep treads. This will help you maintain traction on various terrains, loose rocks, dirt, or even light mud.

Lightweight Comfort: Choose a lightweight shoe with moderate cushioning. A heavier shoe can tire you out faster, especially when carrying a child or backpack. A thin sole (around 5-7mm) allows for better feel of the ground, which can improve stability and reduce stress on your joints. Think nimble and responsive, not clunky and heavy.

Skip the High Heels: Opt for a “zero-drop” shoe, where the heel and forefoot are at the same height. This can help with proper posture and balance, reducing strain on your knees, hips, and back.

What to Avoid:

High-ankle boots may seem supportive, but they can restrict movement and put more stress on your joints.

Waterproof membranes, while tempting, can be more expensive and may trap sweat, often leading to blisters. Opt, instead, for breathable materials that dry quickly.

No matter the distance or your familiarity with the trail, you should ALWAYS pack the 10 Essentials.

Navigation: Download a map of the trail onto your phone before leaving home. You can use an app like AllTrails+, Cairn, or Gaia GPS. You should also consider taking a GPS communication device that has an SOS button, with you.

Secondary Light Source: Headlamp with a set of new batteries.

Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses, and mineral-based sunscreen will do the trick.

First Aid Kit: Be prepared for at least minor scrapes and blisters. Ideally you would carry a full First Aid Kit with emergency gear.

Repair Kit & Tools: For minor gear malfunctions (duct tape is a lifesaver!) I like to carry both a small multitool, like the Gerber Dime, and a multipurpose utility knife like the Mora Companion. It’s reliable and affordable.

Shelter: A lightweight emergency blanket can provide warmth and protection in unexpected situations.

Fire: Tinder-Quik and a BIC lighter work great in most situations.

Food + Extra: Bring snacks for the trail plus extra food.

Water + Extra: A good rule of thumb is to pack 0.5 L+ per hour. If you are hiking in high altitude or gaining a ton of elevation, aim for 3/4 L+ per hour.

Additional Layers: No matter the weather, always pack an insulating mid-layer and a water & wind resistant outer layer. Keep an extra pair of socks in your bag at all times.

Weather-specific Items: Bug spray or crampons may also be necessary, depending on the time of year and area in which you are hiking.

Hiking with Infants or Young Children: You will need to bring additional items not listed here.

Hiking in winter can be a magical experience, but it is important to be prepared for cooler temperatures and icy conditions.

Crampons or Microspikes: These slip-on devices for your boots provide extra grip in slippery situations. They are a must-have to prevent slips and falls, especially on popular trails where the snow gets packed down. YakTrax’s Diamond Grip Traction Devices are an excellent choice.

Trekking Poles: These offer extra stability on uneven or slippery terrain. They also help reduce the stress on your knees, hips, and back AND have been shown to decrease finger swelling (bye, bye sausage fingers!)

Sunscreen & Lip Balm: Even on cloudy days, the sun’s reflection off snow can be intense. Protect exposed ski with sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and lip balm.

Bonus Winter Essentials: An insulated bladder, hat, neck gaiter, gloves, and hand warmers.

Bonus Tip: Pack high-calorie snacks. Replenish your energy levels while staying warm. Nearly 50% of the calories you burn go towards maintaining your core body temperature.

The Early Bird Gets the Worm (and the View!): Aim for an early morning start, ideally within a half hour of sunrise. An early start has many advantages, including…

Cooler Temperatures: This will make the hike more enjoyable for everyone.

Less Crowded Trails: You’ll have a better chance of spotting wildlife, not to mention great lighting for photos (photo-bombers like to sleep in).

Sun Safety: You’ll avoid the sun’s strongest UV rays (between 10 am and 4 pm), reducing the risk of sunburn.

Beat the Storms: Afternoon thunderstorms are less likely to catch you on the trail if you head out early.

Bonus Tip: Pack headlamps just in case your hike takes longer than expected.

Give Wild Animals Space: This is the golden rule! You are in their territory. If you see an animal, admire it from a distance. Never approach it.

Make Noise as You Hike: Chat, sing songs, wear a bell, tap your trekking poles together, or clap your hands. Letting animals know you’re there will help you avoid surprising them (which can cause a defensive reaction).

Ditch the Headphones & Stereo: Stay alert to your surroundings by keeping your ears open.

Hike with a Buddy: There’s safety in numbers!

Research the Area: Check online sources (like AllTrails+) to see if there have been any recent wildlife sightings.

Know the Seasons: Mating and calving seasons (when animals have babies) are times when encounters are more likely.

Be Wary of Large Animals: While bears often get the spotlight, elk and moose can also be aggressive, especially if you are hiking with a dog.

Avoid Hiking in the Dark: Mountain lions are most active at dawn and dusk. And, where there are deer, there are usually mountain lions.

Carry Bear Spray: Make sure you know how to use it properly.

Learn How to React: Research what to do when you encounter different animals (bears, mountain lions, etc.). Knowing what to do can help you stay calm and make the best decisions in the moment.