What to pack for a short day hike
Gear lists can be overwhelming if you are just starting out as a hiker. So many lists! So many different pieces of advice! What if you are just trying to get out of the city for short trips on the trails near your home? What if you just want to head out for a walk in the woods on well marked trails on a Saturday morning?
Comfortable clothes:
For short hikes I wear running/yoga tights, sports bra and a short-sleeve or long-sleeve workout t-shirt.
Pockets on your tights are handy if you can get them. I like the Fjallraven Abisko Trekking tights and the Eddie Bauer Trail Tight Leggings, but your everyday Under Armour or Lululemon tights will get you started just fine.
Comfortable broken in shoes:
I usually go our in my trail running shoes because they are grippy and comfortable. I save the heavy hiking boots for bigger trips when I am carrying a bigger pack
Merino hiking socks with padding in the toe and the heel.
Smart wool and Darn Tough both make great hiking socks with good warranties.
Backpack:
No need to get fancy here! For long trips I’ve got fancy backpacks with lots of hiking features, but for short hikes, I usually just throw everything in the same backpack I use for everyday around town
Fjallraven Rucksack No 21
Water (and water for my dog too)
Map and navigation
Check the park you are visiting for a paper map.
On well known trails near the city I often use All Trails and download the map to my phone.
Bug Spray and Sunscreen
An extra layer.
In warm weather I take a light rain jacket or wind breaker.
In the cooler weather I take a rain jacket and a polar fleece or a lightweight down puffy jacket.
First aid kit!
Emergency Gear
I always have a whistle and an emergency blanket
Knowledge of the local wildlife.
Depending on where you are, you might have bears, snakes, moose or other animals. Its always good to know what to do if you run across these animals on the trail!
