ESSENTIALS

Essentials
Food and water Rain gear First Aid kit including any special medications you may need Clothing suitable for the weather (wear layers to adjust to changing conditions) Pocket Knife Flashlight with spare bulb and batteries Compass Sunglasses Gloves, hat, extra socks Audible/visual signals (ie whistle and/or metal mirror) Fire starter (matches, lighter, candle)
Footwear Recommendations
Avoid Cotton Socks! Wool or CoolMax socks are best Break in new shoes or boots with a few short hikes before wearing them for for a long hike. Streams will need to be crossed. Consider waterproof boots to keep your feet dry. For all but the coldest and wettest days, most members prefer light hiking boots or trail running/walking shoes.
Summer Gear Recommendations
Plenty of water! 3-4 quarts is not too much from July to September Freeze a waterbottle the night before to have cold water in the afternoon Thermos: carry a cold drink with you Bring a bottle of an energy drink (such as Gatorade) to replace lost electrolytes Insect repellent Hat with a brim: will keep the sun and spider webs off your face Consider long pants if you're allergic to poison ivy Towel and watershoes if we'll be near Lake Monroe for a dip
Fall Gear Recommendations
Safe fall hiking Bright Orange clothing or pack, etc especially during deer hunting season
Winter Gear Recommendations
Gear check Avoid Cotton! Cotton will not insulate when wet and will not dry Warm hat and gloves Extra jacket: for rest breaks and lunch stops Extra socks: keep them dry in case the first pair get wet Fleece ear warmers: perfect for windy days that are too warm for a wool cap Thermos: a hot drink or soup for lunch and rest breaks Use waterbottles instead of hydration packs which can freeze
Year-Round Gear Recommendations
Sense of Humor Remember: There is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing.