Don't Take to the Trails Without These 10 Essentials

The key to keeping a hike safe and enjoyable is making sure you have the right gear.

• Trail shoes or boots
• GPS, map and compass.  A GPS enabled device is handy, but go old-school too.  Always carry a map and compass as a backup should your electronic device die or should the unit be unable to pick up a signal
• Extra water and way to purify water should you run out and need to use lake or stream water.
• Rain gear and extra clothing.  Try to avoid cotton, which keeps moisture close to your skin.
• Safety items--such as flashlight, whistle and a way to start a fire.
• Extra food
• First aid kit
• Knife or multi-purpose tool
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Daypack/Backpack