The original handcart pioneers were limited to 17 pounds of personal gear. They were weighed in as the carts were filled, and if they went over the limit they had to choose what to leave behind: blankets, clothes, a treasured heirloom, etc. Most had nothing more with them than a change of clothing and a blanket or two.
All of your clothing and personal items need to fit in a 5 to 6 gallon bucket except your shoes and coat. The young women are encouraged to use their girl's camp bucket if they have one. The stake may be able to provide buckets for those that need them. You can tie your extra shoes to the handle of your bucket. Often clothes can be found inexpensively at the DI and thrift stores. You can sew your own clothes at home, or you can borrow them from others who have been on a trek.
Clothing Requirements for Everyone
• Wool socks or synthetic socks work well. Avoid all-cotton socks as they don't insulate when wet and are more prone to cause blisters.
2 pair of shoes:
• Have one good pair of sturdy athletic shoes or hiking boots that have been well broken-in before trek.
• You will also need an extra pair of shoes to change into for the river crossing. Please make sure the extra shoes are water worthy and fit well. Please make sure your extra pair of shoes also fit well. No flip-flops, crocs or similar footwear which can easily fall off in fast-running water.
Underclothing as needed for 4 days:
• Please bring 4 and wear 1. You absolutely need at least one full change of underclothing, especially since we’re crossing the river.
Warm coat and gloves:
• It will be cold enough to need more than just a sweatshirt or light jacket once the sun goes down. A warm coat or parka is required.
Warm pajamas for sleeping:
• It will probably be cold at night on trek (25-30F). Bring something warm to sleep in that you will not wear during the day. Bring sweat pants and shirt, thermals or something warm.
• A knit cap and lightweight gloves will help make sleeping warmer on chilly nights. Bring an extra pair of warm socks to wear only at night.
Neckerchief or bandana:
• This will be provided by the stake.
Men's Clothing Requirements
Women's Clothing Requirements