So what do I bring when backpacking the Cascades in the fall?
Lets start with clothing, (please note, there are no affiliate links below and I’m not sponsored in anyway with gear…just sharing what I like to use):
- KUHL Zip off hiking pants: most of the time I don’t even need to use my rain paints as these shed water really well.
- Hiking t-shirt
- 1 pair Darn Tough Hiking Socks. These are awesome hiking socks. I just have one pair that I hike with.
Base Layers
- 1 Pair Micro Wool Socks. When it gets cold, I like to sleep with a pair of socks on. I have one very comfortable pair of socks just for sleeping and hanging out in the tent. This is also my backup pair of hiking socks if I need another pair. I don’t need this pair of socks to be as durable as my Darn Tough socks since I don’t hike with them as much.
- Base layer top and bottom. (https://www.rei.com/product/153829/rei-co-op-lightweight-base-layer-bottoms-mens and https://www.rei.com/product/802211/rei-co-op-silk-long-underwear-crew-shirt-mens-tall-sizes). I generally only use these around camp and when I am sleeping. I like having something that is comfortable to wear while hiking in case we are hiking a colder weather.
Warm Layers
- Patagonia Micro Puff Hooded Down Jacket. For me, having the built-in hood is really important. When it gets cold out, this is like wearing a sleeping bag. It keeps my entire upper body warm.
Rain Protection
- Rain jacket and pants. I use a lightweight rain jacket and pants. I don’t want something that makes me warm, just something that keeps me dry.
Hats
- Topo Maps+ Hat. This is probably the most import piece of gear I own 😜 By the way if you run into Danny or myself on the trail and comment on our hats, we will give you a free subscription.
- Smartwool Marino Beanie. (https://www.rei.com/product/112548/smartwool-nts-merino-150-beanie). I like having a low profile beanie that comfortably fits under the hood of my rain jacket and down jacket. There have been times where I was wearing this beanie, with my hooded down jacket over my head and my rain jacket over my head.