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Winter Adventures Packing List

This is a suggested equipment list, utilized by MSHI guides, staff, volunteers and participants.  

Gear:

  • Snowshoes: Personal or rented. May be provided by MSHI or rented at a variety of outdoor stores in Portland or Seattle areas. Research the appropriate size/length for your weight.  
  • Adjustable trekking poles:  Personal or rented. MSHI or rented at a variety of outdoor stores in Portland or Seattle areas.

Clothing:  

Wear natural wool or synthetic (polyester, polypropylene, nylon or acrylic) clothing. NO COTTON! Cotton is not a hollow fiber thus does not maintain any insulation abilities when wet from sweat or conditions.  Wool and synthetics will insulate when wet.  Cotton clothing is not appropriate for cold weather activities at Mount St. Helens.  In certain circumstances, polyester/cotton blends may suffice, but are not ideal.  Dress in layers in order to be able to control your temperature while hiking and resting.

  • Boots: Sturdy waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support (mid-high top) are imperative. Running shoes are not appropriate for winter adventures at Mount St. Helens. 
  • Socks: Wool or synthetic hiking socks are ideal for insulation and warmth in all conditions. Optional liner socks help with insulation, as well as reduce the risk of blisters.
  • Gaiters (optional): Helps keep snow out of your boots and provides extra lower leg protection from brush or abrasion from snowshoes, traction devices or poles.
  • Long Sleeve Base Layer:  Wool or synthetic light or medium weight layer.  
  • Upper Body Mid Layer: Polyester fleece jacket, vest or insulated jacket (down or synthetic)
  • Rain Jacket: A shell or jacket with 2 or 3 layer breathable membranes and/or Durable Water Repellant (DWR) treatment.
  • Rain Pants (optional):  Many hiking, trekking or ski pants already have DWR treatment, but dedicated rain pants may be beneficial.
  • Synthetic Pants: e.g. Polyester zip-off pants, hiking pants.
  • Bottom Base Layer: Polyester or wool leggings.
  • Gloves: Warm and waterproof, e.g. thin liner gloves and waterproof shell or Winter gloves or mittens.
  • Hat:  Winter cap/beanie for warmth, brim or baseball style hat for sun protection as required.
  • Scarf or Buff: To protect your neck from the cold and sun
  • Sunglasses: Close-fitting to protect against sun snow reflection which is a hazard to the eyes.
  • Change of dry clothes for the car (optional)

Backpack:  Small to medium day pack, approx. 20-30 liters.

  • 2 L liters of water: Filled bottles or hydration bladder. Optional electrolyte drinks
  • Lunch and Snacks: High energy foods, e.g. trail mix, sandwich, trail bars, beef jerky, hard boiled eggs, summer sausage, cheese, or soup thermos
  • Toiletries
  • Sunscreen and spf lip balm (SPF 30 and above)
  • Small First Aid Kit (this includes your own personal prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, and blister care. Bring extra prescription meds in case of unexpected delays)
  • Headlamp or flashlight, with extra set of batteries
  • Bandana: Cotton OK
  • Extra Clothing Layers and Socks: Pack them in a dry-bag or garbage bag if weather shows wet conditions
  • Pocket Knife or Multi-tool
  • Instant Hand Warmers (optional)