Recommended clothing and equipment for Sierra Nevada hikers

Weather in the Sierra Nevada can change quickly. Even in summer you may experience winter conditions at higher elevations.

Ten essential items you should carry on every trip:

• Map
• Compass - Be sure you know how to use your map and compass before you go!
• Warm clothing including hat and mittens
• Extra food and water
• Flashlight or headlamp
• Matches/firestarters
• First aid kit/repair kit
• Whistle
• Rain/wind gear
• Pocket knife

Add for overnight trips:

• Sleeping bag and pad
• Tent or tarp
• Cooking stove and fuel
• Extra food and water

Add for winter:

• Extra warm clothing
• Balaclava
• Insulated boots
• Overmitts
• Snowshoes

  Add for above treeline and avalanche terrain:

  • Crampons
  • Face mask
  • Ice axe
  • Wind pants
  • Goggles
  • Shovel
  • Probe
  • Avalanche Transceiver

Other items to consider:

• Space blanket
• Medication
• Watch
• Guidebook
• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen
• Hiking boots
• Extra socks