Backpacking Development Series: Level 1

Packs smaller than this tend not to be able to carry the necessary amount of equipment and clothing.

Packs smaller than this tend not to be able to carry the necessary amount of equipment and clothing.

Synthetic or Merino Wool, Lightweight or mid-weight are recommended.

Should cover the ears and fit under a helmet. Hats with fluff balls on top do not fit under helmets.

Personal utensils

Used for navigation and orientation. A compass with adjustable declination is preferrable.

Should be made with at least two layers of fabric. Your mask needs to cover your nose and mouth without large gaps. The mask should have ear loops or ties so you can adjust it. Look for a mask with a bendable border at the top so you can mold the mask to fit the bridge of your nose and prevent your glasses from fogging.

Your guide will have an emergency First Aid Kit. You should bring a small kit including blister prevention and care products such as a role of athletic tape and Moleskin. Your kit should also contain a few Band-aids, some Tylenol and Ibuprofen.

These should be non-insulated pants with ankle cuffs wide enough to fit over your ski or ride boots.

Load with fresh batteries. Critical for hiking before sunrise and great to have in the pack in case you are caught out after dark.

You can use walking shoes, running shoes, hiking shoes, or hiking boots. It’s your call!  You should aim to try footwear walking, hiking, backpacking, and then camping to learn about what works best for you. You will hike no more than roughly 5-7 miles per day during the mountain excursions.

Useful for navigation courses, including hiking and ski tour planning.

Synthetic or Merino Wool; Worn against the skin and is considered a “wicking” layer that facilitates the movement of moisture away from the skin and through the layers. Hooded base layers add extra versatility.

Synthetic; Thin gloves used when hiking the early morning approach. Belay gloves can suffice if full-fingered.

Non-SPF rated lip balms can actually increase your chances of getting burned.

Cotton or Synthetic and Merino Wool; Bring a variety of short-sleeve or tank tops, and a few long-sleeve. Synthetic shirts are not required, but many prefer the feel and quick-dry performance. If your program includes crack climbing, a long sleeve cotton shirt adds a layer of comfort.

Synthetic or Merino Wool; Adds extra warmth and protection from the cold and wind without creating a moisture barrier as a jacket would. Having at least one base layer that is hooded adds versatility, protecting the neck and ears from cold winds.

“Buffs” are quite versatile in their uses. They can be used as light beanies, neck warmers, and can offer face protection from the cold wind or sun.

Medications, glasses or contacts, feminine products, etc.

At minimum, bring a small Ziploc with toilet paper. Consider bringing a travel sized package of hand-wipes. Idealy, purchase, or for free from the RMNP Backcountry office, bring a “Rest Stop.” The Rest Stop, known as “Blue Bags” in the Pacific Northwest, or the “Wag Bag” in other areas, are poop-in-a-bag systems that include toilet paper and a sanitizing hand wipe.

Down or synthetic sleeping bag is acceptible.

Insulated air mattresses or foam are ideal. Uninsulated air mattresses are not recommended.

There are a plethora of apps that assist in navigation. These apps use your phone’s GPS functions and can work in the mountains offline.

Great for taking photos and videos. Smartphone batteries tend to shut down in freezing temps – keep your phone in a warm inner layer. A tether is ideal in the mountains to protet against dropping your phone.

An assortment of snack bars, gels, or trail mixes.

Water-resistant, windproof, yet it “breaths,” which means it allows moisture to move through. Hoods are ideal. There are multiple thicknesses of Softshell jackets. A lightweight or medium-weight jacket is preferred. Fleece jackets are acceptable.

Softshell material is stretchy, wind-proof, water-resistant, and resists abrasion. Mid-weight is recommended and light-weight pants can work for warm days. Typical thin, nylon “hiking pants” are generally not tough enough.

Provides support and allows for full range of motion

A billed hat to keep the bright mountain sun at bay.

“Wrap-Around” style sunglasses with 100% UV Protection.

Travel size.

Fits over all other layers and is worn at breaks and on really cold days. Synthetic puffies are more durable, are easily laundered, and dry out quickly if wet. Down puffies are lighter weight, pack smaller, and provide exceptional warmth, but once wet, they stay wet.

Wool and synthetic blends are great for long days on the trail. “Ski” and “Snowboard” socks are especially useful when warmth is desired.

Bring enough for the trip. Toothpaste; brush, floss, deodorant, lotion, eye drops, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, etc.

Lining the inside of your pack with a heavy duty trash bag will keep the contents of your pack dry on rainy days.

Adjustable and without powder basket.

1 liter bottles are the standard. Bladders such as Camelbacks and Platypus are acceptable for above freezing temps, but only in conjunction with another bottle. Bladders are not acceptable during sub freezing temps. Sports drinks are also acceptable.

Iodine or Chlorine-based treatments; To keep packs light in the summer during early morning approaches, your guide may suggest only carrying a liter or two of water, with the plan to refill during the day at a stream.

Non-insulated, Gore-Tex, Dermizax, Event, or other waterproofing system is required. Mostly, this jacket sits in the bottom of your pack and comes out when the weather gets nasty with precipitation. This jacket should fit over all other layers.