Two people next to a cairn and summit sign in the mountains
Two people next to a cairn and summit sign in the mountains

Jounen esansyèl la Hiking Kovèti pou Lis la soti nan Trek la

Since thru-hiking has been temporarily canceled, we’re pivoting toward appreciating the things we can do, like shorter outings close to home, and hopefully more extended trips later this summer. Last week I listed the gear I take day hiking, which will be getting lots of use this year. Now we’re going to throw our day-hiking essentials at you, with a few options for versatility / budget, plus the basics of what to carry for hikes of different distances.

Looking for day hikes in your region? Our 2020 NOGO hikers have day hike recommendations for Tahoe, California; Winter Park, Colorado; and Memphis, Tennessee.

Essential Day Hiking Gear

First, what type of hike are you doing? Peakbagging above treeline at high elevations? Or sticking close to town for a relaxed jaunt? You don’t want to overpack, but you also don’t want to be unprepared. Here are the basics to consider when packing your day-hiking bag.

See the full list from Maggie Slepian on the Trek's website here.

Medya Mansyone

It all starts with Sawyer Squeeze + Cnoc VectoX 2L, the best and most reliable filter-bladder combo and the core of my backpacking water storage and filtration system.

Jaeger Shaw
Owner & Managing Editor

Medya Mansyone

Our top water filter for thru hiking, the Sawyer Squeeze, is 15% off.

Naomi Hudetz
Chief Operating Officer & Online Editor

Medya Mansyone

People with alpha-gal syndrome show allergic symptoms such as rash, nausea and vomiting after eating such meat.

Stephanie Soucheray
Reporter