Yosemite National Park - Ten Essentials

Ten Essentials For Overnight Trips

For day hikes and overnight trips, don"t leave the trailhead without them! The most important thing to carry with you is your good judgement, but all packs should contain:

1. MAP/COMPASS: Use them to know where you are and where you are going. Be sure to tell someone at home of your plans.

2. WATER: Bring at least one quart per person or bring a water filter.

3. FIRST AID KIT: You may need to come to your own rescue, or help someone else. Be prepared!

4. FOOD: Carry plenty to snack on all day. Reduce packaging to eliminate trash.

5. SUNSCREEN/SUNGLASSES: Protect yourself - the sun shines brighter up here.

6. STORM GEAR: A beautiful sunny morning can turn into a cold rainy afternoon. Plan ahead!

7. MATCHES: An emergency campfire might make an unplanned night outside more bearable.

8. KNIFE: Handy for all kinds of purposes, especially the type with extra tools.

9. FLASHLIGHT: A necessity when the day is short and the trail is long.

10. GARBAGE BAG: For your trash and for trash you find along the way.

For Overnight Trips

For overnight trips bring the ten essentials and the items below.

TENT: It can rain at night in theSierra.

BEAR RESISTANT FOOD STORAGE CANISTER: The best way to make sure you, not the wildlife, eat your food.

STOVE: A quick clean way to cook your meals or boil your water. No campfires above 9600 feet.

TROWEL: A useful digging tool when nature calls.

SLEEPING BAG AND PAD: Average nightime temperatures are 25-35 F in spring/fall, 30-40 F in summer.

COOKING POT: Don"t forget a cup and spoon.

WATER FILTER: Use this to safely drink from rivers, lakes and streams.

EXTRA CLOTHING: Dress in layers for the best results. Remember to put on a hat if your feet get cold.

WILDERNESS PERMIT: Required for all overnight trips, but not for day hikes.