Things You Provide
To help you pack for the adventure, here's a list of essentials you'll need to bring for the trip. The items listed below set you up for success on the trip and you've probably got a lot of it already.
We're also including some tips and resources for finding low-cost or second-hand gear, like hiking boots, so you can be fully prepared without breaking the bank. You must supply your own hiking boots, so make sure you start searching early.
water and snacks for the rides
lunch for the ride out to Dolly Sods
clean clothes for the drive home
toothbrush and toothpaste
sunscreen
face soap, lotion
lip balm
biodegradable, scent-free soap
DEET-free insect repellent
hiking pants
hiking socks (wool)
short sleeve t-shirt (sweat-wicking)
flannel or sweatshirt
hiking boots
underwear
an extra pair of wool socks
a book or a small journal
think about the weight of the luxury item you want to bring
sweatpants or leggings (wool, if it'll be cold)
t-shirt or long-sleeve shirt
warm sleep socks underwear (you don't sleep in what you hiked in)
puffy jacket
gloves
warm hat
camp shoes (fake Crocs are great)
Finding Low Cost and Used Gear
- REI ReSupply
REI Co-Op members can shop the ReSupply for used gear, often scoring deals. Membership is only $30 and it is for your lifetime. Membership comes with free shipping on all orders and access to insider deals.
CAUTION: items purchased from ReSupply cannot be returned. - Good Wolf Gear
A consignment shop located in Herndon, VA. Consignment shops sell gear for owners, taking a portion of the sales price.
Hiking Boots
A Note About Hiking Boots
Your hiking boots can make or break your trip. The right pair will protect your feet from rough terrain and add support where needed. The wrong pair (for you) can leave you with blisters or cause you to roll your ankles. Like all gear for backpacking and hiking, boots come in a range of price points, quality, and features (like arch support).
In order to participate in the backpacking trips, you need to have your own hiking boots. Sometimes the Project is able to help out financially, but there are plenty of reliable options for finding low-cost or used gear. You're encouraged to go to an REI Store and speak with a shoe staff member to find the right kind of boot for your foot and the trip.
You'll be carrying 30+ pounds of gear and walking between 3 and 8 miles a day on rocky terrain. Ankle support and thicker soles are recommended.
- REI Hiking Boot Basics
A good pair of hiking boots will take you far and keep your feet happy. To help you on your journey, this series covers everything from choosing the right boots and breaking them in to lacing them up and keeping them clean.
Backpacks
Sizing and Fitting a Backpack
Just like your hiking boots can make or break your trip, finding the right pack for your body takes a keen eye. The trickiest part of the process is understanding that a backpack is based on your torso length, not your height.
- How to Size and Fit a Backpack
This article gives steps for measuring at home. Your best resource, though, is a pack-fit expert at your local REI store. Store experts can visually assess your unique fit needs and work through them with you.