Below is a list of required and “nice to have” items. The weather in the Canadian Rockies can be completely unpredicatable with wide temperature variations between morning, mid-day and evening. It is essential to be prepared for rain, wind, sleet, or even snow in June. We will be at higher elevations and very exposed at times, so the appropriate rain gear and layering is essential. If you have any questions about any of the required clothing or required items please let us know.
1 daypack for hiking and using as a carry-on. It should be large enough for warm layers, rain gear, water bottle, camera, snacks, and other items you want to carry.
Water bottles or water bladder (bring at least one quart per smaller child)
Hiking boots (broken-in, preferably waterproof) – good sturdy bottoms are necessary on wet, slippery rock. Absolutely no sneakers for hiking.
Good quality lightweight breathable rain gear, such as a Gore-Tex rain/wind shell jacket with hood and full-length rain pants
Synthetic hiking shorts and pants or zip offs
Synthetic hiking shirts – short and long sleeve
Medium layer, such as fleece or light merino wool
Gloves/mittens and a light-weight fleece or wool hat
Bathing suit
Comfortable street/travel clothes
Non-hiking shoes/sneakers
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Bug repellent with deet
Toiletries
Wide brimmed sun hat or baseball cap that can also double as rain protection.
Hiking socks
Masks
Personal first aid kit - see COVID, Emergencies and First Aid
Hiking poles
Camera
Binoculars
Gaiters
Bandanas
Ear plugs
Books, games, cards
High energy snacks
Laundry soap for washing clothes
Small laundry bag
Extra Ziploc bags
We will carry a larger first aid kit, and Wyatt is a nurse practitioner. However, we ask that each family bring a small kit for personal use. Your own experience will influence your choices.
Sunscreen SPF #30 or higher and lip balm with sunscreen
Bandages for small cuts and scrapes
Aspirin, ibuprofen, or Tylenol for muscle pain or headache
Blister kit.
Prescription medications properly labeled – if you have an EPI pen please make sure we know where you keep it on you
Spare contact lenses or spare prescription glasses
We recommend one bag per person, not to exceed 50 pounds (22 kilos), which is typically the baggage allowance for most airlines. We suggest using your day pack as your carry-on. There will be access to laundry services during the trip.