Day Hike Packing List
This is a suggested equipment list, utilized by MSHI guides, staff, volunteers, and participants.
Attire:
Wear synthetic (polyester, polypropylene, nylon, or acrylic) clothing. NO COTTON! Cotton clothing is not appropriate for climbing Mount St. Helens. When cotton becomes wet from precipitation and/or sweat, it will not dry out and will not keep you warm. Wet cotton is not only uncomfortable but also hazardous (Polyester/Cotton blend OK.) Dress in layers in order to be able to control your temperature while hiking as well as resting.
- Face Covering: See more about CDC-recommended face coverings.
- Boots: Sturdy waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support (mid-high top) are imperative. Running shoes are not appropriate for climbing Mount St. Helens.
- Socks: Polyester or wool hiking socks. Optional liner socks help with insulation, as well as reduce the risk of blisters.
- Gaiters: Helps keep ash and snow out of your boots
- Long Sleeve Base Layer: Synthetic or wool
- Upper Body Mid Layer: Polyester fleece jacket or down jacket
- Rain Jacket: e.g. Waterproof Gore Tex Jackets
- Rain Pants: e.g. Waterproof Gore Tex
- Synthetic Pants: e.g. Polyester zip-off pants, hiking pants
- Bottom Base Layer: Polyester or wool
- Gloves: Warm and waterproof, e.g. thin liner gloves and waterproof shell
- Warm Hat
- Sun Hat: e.g. baseball hat
- Sunglasses: Close fitting to keep out windblown ash and snow reflection
- Face Mask: Medical mask or multiple layers of fabric that comfortably cover your nose and mouth.
Backpack:
(Approx. 20-30 liter backpack)
- 3-4 liters of water: Filled bottles or hydration bladder. Optional electrolyte drinks
- Lunch and Snacks: High energy foods, e.g. trail mix, sandwich, trail bars, beef jerky, hard-boiled eggs, summer sausage, cheese
- Toiletries
- Sunscreen and spf lip balm (SPF 30 and above)
- Small First Aid Kit (this includes your own personal prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, and blister care. Bring extra prescription meds in case of unexpected delays)
- Headlamp or flashlight, with extra set of batteries
- Bandana: Cotton OK
- Extra Clothing Layers and Socks: Pack them in a dry-bag or garbage bag if weather shows wet conditions
- Pocket Knife or Multi-tool
- Adjustable trekking poles (optional)
- Camera (optional)