Check List

Whenever you travel in the winter there is always the possibility that conditions and circumstances may change without warning, turning fun into an instant survival situation. As a backcountry traveler it is important for you to recognize this and to prepare yourself accordingly. Sierra Sherpa has compiled a check list of essential equipment needed for backcountry travel.

Essential Equipment

Backpack (internal frame)

Sleeping bag (3 or 4 season)

Head lamp or flashlight

Day pack or fanny pack

Water bottle (1 is good 2 is better)

Skis and poles (metal edge skis and collapsible poles recommended)

Ski boots (stiff soled, ankle high)

High energy snack food (chocolate is highly recommended)

Whistle

Map and Compass

Avalanche transceiver

Snow shovel

Climbing skins

Sierra Sherpa has a list of rental equipment available from Alpenglow and Dave's Ski Shop for the 2000/2001 winter season. Tele skis, cross country skis, boots, poles (non probe), skins, snowshoes, split snowboards and bindings are all available for rent. Please allow at least one week notice. Sierra Sherpa can arrange to pick up rental gear for your convenience.

Recommended Clothing

Insulated jacket (pile or down)

Windproof/waterproof shell, jacket and pants
(hood, pit zips and leg zips recommended)

2 pair of synthetic long underwear (poly-pro or capaline)

2 pair of socks and or liners (synthetic or wool)

Wool or pile hat

Sun hat

Gloves or mittens (mittens are warmer than gloves)

Glove liners

Sunglasses and goggles

Sunscreen

*Sierra Sherpa can arrange for the purchase of any functional clothing needed.

**Cotton garments are never recommended for the winter wilderness!!!

***Several light and medium weight synthetic layers are better than a single heavy layer to regulate body temperature.

Optional Equipment

Towel and/or washcloth

Camera and film

Toiletries

Reading material

Journal

Pocket knife

Small thermos

Extra gloves

Camp wear (wool, pile, or down pants and jacket)

Camp foot wear (insulated booties)

*Sierra Sherpa reserves the right to deny carrying any equipment deemed excessive or unnecessary (lap top computers, portables TV, etc.)

The Day Pack

Water

Energy snack food

Map and compass

Whistle

Camera and film

Head lamp or flashlight

Sunglasses and goggles

Sunscreen

Hat

Windproof/waterproof shell

Avalanche transceiver

Avalanche probe

Collapsible shovel

Mirror and foil

Matches/lighter and candle

Although Sierra Sherpa will carry your gear for you, it is important for you to carry a day pack and some essentials. This is a list of equipment you may need or want at any given moment during your trip.

Sierra Sherpa has compiled this list for your convenience. Please utilize it to prepare for your trip. If you need any gear or clothing on this list please notify Sierra Sherpa at least one week in advance to be sure it can be made available for you.