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Participants are responsible for providing their own supplies. Requirements will be different depending on the individual, the location and terrain, walk distance, etc. Be sure to understand the conditions and always come prepared.
We recommend carrying as little as you can for most walks. Our walks/hikes are usually workout pace. Large backpacks are not recommended. You don’t want to be weighed down with stuff you will never use. However you should bring a waist pack or camelbak style pack large enough to carry plenty of water and necessary items. Assume there are no facilities or water fountains until known otherwise. Also understand that often facilities are available on a seasonal basis.
Here is a short list of suggestions for walks and short distance hikes on well-maintained trails. You may not need all of the supplies listed at every walk and sometimes you may need additional items. It is your responsibility to take care of your own needs.
NECESSARY ITEMS
- Comfortable clothing: We generally recommend workout/running style clothing for our meetups rather than typical hiking style clothing. Comfort is key. So wear what works best for you. If there is a threat of rain bring a light rain jacket or disposable rain poncho. In cool weather wear layers and add gloves and hat.
- Shoes: Wear lightweight running shoes and a good pair of socks. For pavement I prefer light weight running shoes with a low heel, and for trails I wear light weight trail running shoes. If you are going to be out long you may want to bring an extra pair of socks in a zip lock bag. For longer hikes or backpacking some people prefer to wear hiking boots.
- Waist pack or backpack: It’s best to use a waist pack or camelbak that will carry enough water and supplies for your planned distance. The shorter the walk the less you need to carry.
- Water: Bring enough water for the distance and the conditions. I usually bring more water than I think I will need. This is important if you end up being out longer than expected or the weather turns warmer. Many of our locations do not have water fountains, and others are turned off in cold weather.
- Electrolytes: For longer walks or very hot walks you may also need electrolytes. You can get this from a sports drink, foods, or a variety of electrolyte products. Try different things to see what works best for you. I like electrolyte capsules better than sports drinks.
- Snacks: For walks lasting over 90 minutes or so you will probably need a snack. Bring items you can eat on the go. You are expected to eat as needed to keep your energy level up. Again, I always bring a bit extra “just in case”.
- ID, insurance info, and emergency contact information (you should never walk without this)
- Directions to the meetup starting location
- Watch
OPTIONAL ITEMS (in no particular order)
- Sun protection (depending on your requirements, the weather, and the walk distance (sunscreen, hat, lip balm, sunglasses, long sleeve shirt))
- Toilet paper / kleenex
- Individually wrapped wet wipes, and/or hand sanitizer
- Bandana(s)
- Zip lock bag for trash
- Bug spray or natural option (Don’t spray near other walkers please.)
- First aid and blister kit (You can just put a few items in a baggy.)
- Trail map
- Compass, GPS
- Heart rate monitor
- Cell phone
- Flash light and/or headlamp (Sometimes our walks begin when it is still dark out, it’s up to you to know if you need light.)
- Camera
- Extra socks, gloves, ear muffs, hat, chemical hand warmers
- Pocket knife or multi-tool
- Whistle
- Hiking poles (The use of hiking poles is a personal preference; they are very helpful for some people and for navigating rugged terrain. Use your own judgement.)
When doing a longer day hike or hiking in a remote location you might need a larger pack and you would need more in the way of survival (emergency) gear. Do an online search for a hiking gear list or see this REI Day Hiking Checklist.
In addition to the hiking gear, it may be helpful have a few things in your car for clean up and refreshment after a long walk/hike: Extra water, snack, wet wipes, towel, clean shoes, clean shirt, folding chair, large first aid kit.
Additional helpful list from REI – You will rarely need all the items on the list. However, referring to the list may keep you from forgetting something you do need.
Always be prepared. You are completely responsible for your own safety, finding your own way, bringing all of your own supplies and knowing how to use supplies.
Take the time out of your busy life and make a connection
– a connection to nature, to new friends, and most of all to yourself.
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