Cap Puckhaber: Hike planning tools for backpacking

 Navigation Tools / hike planning tools

• Topographic map (paper or downloaded offline)
   
• Compass
   
• GPS device or smartphone with GPS app (Gaia GPS, AllTrails+)
   

Gear & Clothing

• Durable hiking shoes with good grip (Vibram soles preferred)
   
• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF 30+)
   
• Breathable layers (avoid cotton)
   
• Lightweight backpack
   
• Trekking poles (optional but helpful on slickrock)
   

Water & Food

• 3+ liters of water (hydration bladder or bottles)
   
• Water filter or purification tabs
   
• High-protein snacks (nuts, bars, jerky)
   
• Electrolytes
   

Safety & Misc

• First aid kit
   
• Emergency whistle
   
• Lightweight space blanket
   
• Headlamp or flashlight
   
• Extra phone battery or solar charger
   
• Notebook or nature journal (optional but great for reflection).