“What Should I Bring On A Hike?”

That’s one of the most common questions we get, especially from new hikers. Whether you’re joining us for a casual walk on flat trails or tackling a more rugged path with roots and inclines, having the right items makes all the difference in your comfort and confidence on the trail.

Below is a simple breakdown of what to bring for different trail types in Southeast Michigan and on a bit more strenuous trails.. plus a peek inside my personal hiking backpack. My go-to essentials don’t change much from trail to trail, but I always come prepared. Use this as your guide the next time you hit the trail with us!

BEGINNER HIKE PACKING LIST (Flat Land – more Southeast Michigan Trails) Great for paved or gravel trails like Oakwoods Metropark, Dequindre Cut, or Belle Isle.

Essentials:

• Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers (with some tread)

• Water bottle (16–32 oz)

• Light backpack or sling bag

• Layered, weather-appropriate clothing

• Sunscreen

• Bug spray or repellent wipes

• Hat or cap for sun protection

• Sunglasses

• Small snack (granola bar, fruit, etc.)

• Fully charged phone

• Emergency contact info

• Any personal medications

• Mini first-aid (Band-Aids, wipes)

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MODERATE TERRAIN PACKING LIST (Inclines, Roots & Uneven Ground) Think trails like Stony Creek, Proud Lake, Heritage Park, and Pinckney.. a little more rugged, but still beginner-friendly.

Essentials - Everything above, plus:

• Hiking shoes or trail runners (with grip)

• Trekking poles (optional but helpful)

• Windbreaker or light jacket

• Extra water or hydration pack

• Electrolyte packet or sports drink

• More comprehensive first-aid kit (include blister care)

• Trail map or downloaded GPS app (AllTrails, Gaia, etc.)

• Gaiters or high socks (to help with ticks/debris)

• Bug net hat (for buggy, wooded areas)

• Towel or bandana

• Small flashlight or headlamp

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PACKING LIST FOR MORE MODERATELY CHALLENGING & STRENUOUS HIKES

For our out-of-town hikes, like the trails at Red River Gorge, Coconino National Forest, and the Great Smoky Mountains, the terrain is usually longer, steeper, and more rugged than local trails. There is also almost always a guaranteed climate change while hiking in the mountains, and the chances of encountering wildlife that you don’t see on local trails doubles. These still aren’t considered challenging or extreme trails, but they definitely require more gear and preparation.

Here’s a list of essentials to bring for those strenuous-but-manageable adventures.

FOOTWEAR & CLOTHING:

• Sturdy hiking boots or trail runners (with ankle support & solid tread)

• Wool or moisture-wicking socks (bring an extra pair)

• Moisture-wicking base layers (avoid cotton)

• Breathable long sleeves (for sun/bug protection)

• Light jacket or windbreaker (weather dependent)

• Rain poncho or packable rain jacket

• Hat or bandana (for sun or sweat)

• Gaiters (optional, for dirt, rocks, or ticks)

GEAR & TOOLS:

• Hydration bladder or 2+ full water bottles (at least 2L total)

• Electrolyte packs or tablets

• High-energy snacks (protein bars, trail mix, fruit leathers, nut butter packs)

• Trekking poles (especially helpful for steep inclines or descents)

• Daypack or hiking backpack (with hip support if possible)

• Multi-tool or pocket knife

• Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)

• Trash bag or ziplock (pack it in, pack it out)

HEALTH & SAFETY:

• First-aid kit (include blister pads, gauze, bandages, moleskin, etc.)

• Medications (allergy, pain relief, stomach meds)

• Inhaler or EpiPen if needed

• Bug spray with tick repellent

• Sunscreen (face & body)

• Lip balm with SPF

• Biodegradable wipes + toilet paper

• Hand sanitizer

• Whistle (for safety signaling)

NAVIGATION & EMERGENCY

• Trail map or offline map downloaded (AllTrails, Gaia, etc.)

• Portable phone charger/power bank

• Emergency contact info card

• Cash or ID (in waterproof bag or pouch)

• Space blanket or emergency bivy (optional but smart)

OPTIONAL COMFORTS FOR LONGER DAYS:

• Lightweight sit pad or foldable stool

• Cooling towel or neck fan

• Extra pair of socks or shirt to change into post-hike

• Small towel or rag for sweat

• Bug net hat (in dense forest or swampy areas)

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WHAT I ALWAYS KEEP IN MY BACKPACK (No Matter the Trail) People often ask me what’s always in my bag. The truth is that it stays the same whether I’m on a flat nature path or headed into hillier terrain. If the trail is tougher, I’ll add a little more, but these are my non-negotiables at any time, on any trail:

• Biodegradable hand & body wipes

• Hand sanitizer

• Basic first aid kits

• Allergy & itch relief creams

• Allergy, pain, and stomach medications

• Bug & tick repellent spray

• An extra water bottle (yep, outside of the one you see me sipping on trail)

• Protein snack (like a bar or trail mix bag)

• Pepper spray

• Pocket knife or multi-tool

These staples keep me prepared and comfortable no matter the trail. You don’t need to go overboard, but having just a few key items makes a big difference.