Here’s what you need
Bring
Essential Gear
- Backpack, sized 30-40 L
- Tent (available to rent for an additional fee)
- Sleeping Bag, rated 30 degrees or lower (available to rent for an additional fee)
- Sleeping Pad (available to rent for an additional fee)
- Water bottles or Camelbak, 3L total minimum capacity
- Headlamp
- Small towel or facecloth
- Toiletries
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
Recommended Gear
- Trekking Poles
- Camera
- Book
- Journal
Wear
Essential Clothing
- Hiking boots, waterproof with sturdy soles
- Wool hiking socks, multiple pairs
- Long sleeve base layers (synthetic and moisture wicking)
- Long pant base layer (synthetic and moisture wicking)
- Light synthetic shirt or tank for warmer days
- Hiking pants or shorts (at least one pair should be long pants)
- Insulating mid layers (fleece jacket or vest, down jacket)
- Waterproof, windproof shell
- Light gloves
- Warm hat
- Casual clothes for camp
- Casual clothes for dinners at lodges or travel to town
Trip Package
Included
- Transport between airport and hotel
- All park and camp fees
- All ground transportation, beginning and ending with airport arrival and departure
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary
Does not Include
- Airfare
- Travel Insurance
- Some meals before and after trek
- Tips for your guides
- Personal gear or clothing for the trek is not provided but is available to rent.
Flights
You may arrive at Jackson Hole International Airport (JAC) anytime on day one of the itinerary. Your Discover Outdoors guide will pick you up to transport you to your hotel. Departure can be anytime on the final day.
Weather
Expect daytime temperatures in the 50s and 60s - sometimes lower at higher elevations. As nights are short due to extended daylight hours, the nighttime temperature does not typically drop lower than about 40 degrees but you should be prepared for temperatures as low as freezing.
Training
This trip does not require technical climbing skills or experience. It does, however, require a moderate level of physical fitness. We strongly encourage our hikers to experience hiking on rugged trails, particularly up and down steep hills, while carrying weight. The difference in difficulty while carrying the weight of a fully loaded backpack can sometimes come as a surprise to hikers, so you are encouraged to try challenging day hikes.
Give yourself adequate time to prepare, particularly if this form and intensity of exercise is new. For three days a week, focus on an hour or more of aerobic exercise such as running, cycling, swimming, etc. Gym equipment such as stairmasters and rowing machines can supplement cardiovascular training. Day hikes or other longer endeavors will help you prepare for the endurance required for a backpacking trip. Carrying a 20 to 30 pound pack uphill on trails or stadium steps will simulate the real climb better than anything. Lifting moderate weights to increase core body, leg, and arm strength is also essential for injury prevention.
Upon registration, a member of the DO team will consult on your experience and fitness and recommend a regimen for training.
Recommended for...
This is the perfect trip for experienced hikers looking for a challenging backcountry experience. We recommend this trip for participants who have a moderate to high level of fitness and basic outdoor skills. Previous backpacking experience and exposure to alpine conditions is helpful but is not required. Those will a base level of fitness are encouraged to train for about three months prior to the trip.