Denali National Park and Preserve Packing List Tips by jjkent

Luggage and bags: Bring a backpack suitable for the length of your trip. Wrap your sleeping bag and clothes in a plastic trash bag inside your pack - there is nothing worse than wet clothes and sleeping bag, and the rain can close in pretty quick! Bring a backpack cover so you can hike in the rain if you need to without getting the contents of your pack wet, and carrying the extra weight. Pack extra large trash bags to put your pack in at the end of the day unless you keep it in your tent or vestibule. Remember - you will have to pack a bear-proof food container that is loaned to you by the park service. Make sure you have room for it in or on your pack.

Clothing/Shoes/Weather Gear: Keep cotton to a minimum - and layer, layer, layer. Wear polypropolene underwear appropriate for the temperature, and bring long underwear even if its warm outside - it can snow in Denali every month of the year! Fleece jackets, shirts and pants, synthetics, Gore-Tex jackets and good waterproof rain jackets and rain pants. Wear tough, high-top hiking boots and bring light sneakers for river crossings or wearing around camp.

Toiletries and Medical Supplies: Bring enough TP! Remember you have to pack out your "used" TP. Put a Ziploc bag for your "used" TP inside the Ziploc bag you have your "new" TP in so you don't forget it. Always bring a first-aid kit and don't forget stuff that you might need like inhalers, bee sting kits, glasses or extra contact lenses, etc. Bring a couple extra Ziploc bags for your trash.

Photo Equipment: A camera is a must in this beautiful wilderness area!

Camping/Beach/Outdoor Gear: Most hiking in Denali is pretty rugged because there are no trails. So, become an ounce-counter! Go through your gear before you embark on your trip and make sure you have everything, and don't bring stuff you don't need.

Miscellaneous: Bring plenty of bug dope and a mosquito headnet to keep the pesky critters away, especially if you are in the west end of the wilderness area by Wonder Lake. Wear long sleeves and gloves - I like the Atlas ThermaFits. Only $4 at Wal-Mart.

Phone: 800-622-7275 to reserve bus pass