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The Mountain Adventure Checklist
Everything you need to research, pack, and prepare, whether you're heading out for a few hours or a few days.
Day HikeNight ClimbOvernightWeekend
Step One · All Trips
Before You Go
Do this before every trip, regardless of how long you're out.
Trail Research
Check trail difficulty, total distance + elevation gain
Identify water sources on or near the routeNote whether treatment is needed, always carry a backup method
Download offline maps - AllTrails, Maps.me, or Google EarthGoogle Earth shows 3D terrain which helps with route reading in complex mountain terrain
Check for trail closures, permit requirements, or seasonal restrictions
Weather & Conditions
Check the forecast on at least two appsWindy and Snowforecast are reliable for mountain conditions. Cross-reference with your phone's built-in weather app. If they disagree, take the more cautious one.
Check expected wind speed at altitudeAlways feels stronger than the forecast, especially near ridgelines and summits
Note sunrise and sunset times - optional, but worth it for the lightEspecially if you're chasing a summit at golden hour or starting a night climb at dusk
Trail Reports & Local Knowledge
Check online trail reports if availableAllTrails reviews, local hiking groups - anything from the past week is most useful
When you arrive, ask the localsRangers, hikers heading back down, anyone at the trailhead. They'll tell you more than any app, current conditions, where the snow starts, where the path gets unclear. Always greet people. The mountain community looks out for each other.
Safety Planning
Tell someone your exact plan - route, trailhead, expected return time
Note the nearest hospital or mountain rescue contact number
Trip Type
Day Hike
Out and back in daylight. Pack light, but don't skip the essentials.
Navigation & Tech
Phone fully charged + offline map downloaded
Portable power bank (charged)
Screenshot key trail info in case you lose signal
Pack & Gear
Daypack 20–25L
Trail shoes or boots - fully broken in
Trekking poles (optional)
Compact first aid kit
Knife
Headlamp or torch + spare batteriesEven for day hikes, delays happen
Matches and lighter
Cash + ID
Water & Food
Minimum 2L water (more in heat or on long ascents)
Water filter or purification tablets (backup)
Calorie-dense snacks + lunch
Clothing
Moisture-wicking base layer
Mid layer (fleece or softshell)
Waterproof rain jacket (even on a sunny forecast)
Sun hat + sunglasses
SPF 50 sunscreen
Trip Type
Night Climb / Summit
Cold, dark, and less forgiving. Your margin for error shrinks.
Start with your Day Hike list. Everything above applies. Add the items below on top of it.
Extra Research
Check night temperature + wind chill at summit elevation
Know where the nearest refuge or shelter is if conditions change
Extra Gear
Headlamp or torch (whatever you prefer)
Hot drink in a thermos
Emergency bivvy bag (optional)Weighs almost nothing. Could matter a lot.
Extra Clothing
Thermal base layer
Insulated jacket
Windproof hard shell
Warm hat + gloves
Neck buff
Trip Type
Overnight / Weekend
One or more nights out. Comfort and safety start to mean the same thing.
Start with your Day Hike list. Everything above applies. Add the items below for any night you're sleeping out.
Shelter
Tent, hammock, or tarp - whichever shelter system works for youThere's no single right answer. Bring what you know how to set up fast in bad conditions.
Sleeping bag rated below your expected overnight low
Sleeping pad or mat
Food & Cooking
Calorie-dense food for each day + one emergency extra
Camp stove + fuel canister (optional)Not everyone carries one. Cold food works fine. Hot food works better.
Cook pot + bowl (if bringing a stove)
Utensils
Bear bag + ropeIf you're in bear country, hang the bag away from camp
Hygiene
Biodegradable soap
Toothbrush + toothpaste
Emergency & Repair
Emergency contacts written on paper, not just in your phone
Repair kit: duct tape, tent pole sleeve, sleeping pad patch (optional)
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This checklist is a general guide based on experience, not a substitute for professional training or local knowledge. Every mountain, season, and trip is different. Use your judgement, know your limits, and always adapt to the specific conditions in front of you.