What to Bring
Sonlight provides all gear (including backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, stoves, fuel, water treatment, etc.) However, you must bring the right layers of clothes! Waterproof and warm layers are essential items for treks in the backcountry.
You need a lot less clothes than you might think – our guides can help you determine what you actually need during packing! It is better to bring options to the backpack base and the guides can help you determine which layers to carry.
Must Have
- Waterproof raincoat with a hood (no ponchos, please) Waterproof/ breathable is best. Raingear needs to have taped seams (unless you have the brand FrogToggs)
- Waterproof rain pants
- Sturdy shoes for hiking (boots that are well broken in, or sturdy trail runners)
- 3 or 4 pairs wool or polypropylene socks (no cotton)
- Fleece or puffy jacket for warm layer
- 1 lighter layer for warmth (long sleeve base layer, light fleece or similar)
- Shorts or pants for hiking in
- 1 or 2 t-shirts
- Underwear
- Warm bottom base layer (leggings or long johns)
- Headlamp or small/lightweight flashlight
- Sunglasses
- Beanie / lightweight cap for warmth
- Two water bottles (Nalgene is suggested)
- Toiletries to include toothbrush and small toothpaste, sunscreen and insect repellent
- Swimsuit and towel for hot springs on Friday
- Clean clothes for the trip home
- Faith, grit and readiness to receive what God and the wilderness has to offer
Optional Items
- Vest for warmth (puffy or fleece)
- Trekking poles
- Bandana
- Sandals with a heel strap for creek crossings and evenings (no flip-flops or slides) (Highly recommended)
- Small lightweight backpack towel
- Journal and pen
- Small Bible
- Light mittens or gloves / mitten or glove liners work well
- Digital or disposable camera
- Diversions for down time: playing cards or small paperback for reading (no hardback books please)
- Snacks (we provide Honey Stingers and GORP but feel free to bring your favorites!)