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Multi-Use Nature Trail & Day-Hike Packing

Pack a daypack for a state park trail that shares space with walkers, bikes and sometimes horses.

Beginner

4 min

MULTI-USE NATURE TRAIL & DAY-HIKE PACKING
[ ] State Park Trail Map
[ ] Tick Spray
[ ] Daypack Hydration

  • State Park Trail Map: note the scale and the trail markers. Photograph the map too.
  • Tick Spray: read the label for how to apply it to skin and to clothing.
  • Daypack Hydration: the amount of water you need depends on weather, distance and you. Carry more than you think you need.
  1. Learn the trail before you walk it. Read the trail map, check closures and recent notices on the park website, and set a turnaround time. Why it matters: a shared trail can have mud, downed trees or a detour.
  2. Protect against ticks. Use a repellent registered with the EPA, wear light clothes so ticks are easier to spot, stay in the middle of the trail, and check your body and gear when you finish. See cdc.gov and epa.gov for current guidance on ticks and repellents.
  3. Share the trail safely. Yield as the park's signs and rules direct. Keep your dog under control. If you or someone in your group is hurt or lost, stay put and call the park's emergency number or 911 if you have signal.

Gear types only.

  • 15 to 25 liter daypack with a hydration sleeve
  • Water bottle or bladder
  • Light, long-sleeve sun layer
  • Brimmed hat
  • Trail socks
  • Insulated drinkware to keep water cold at the trailhead

Trail use, pets, bikes, horses and seasonal closures vary by state and by park. Check current local rules on the website of the state park you are visiting. For tick safety, see cdc.gov.

An easy trail is the best place to learn your pace and your pack. A Wild Dirt hat keeps the sun off while you learn it.

Navigation

  • State Park Trail Map, paper copy from the trailhead or park office
  • Phone with the trail map saved offline
  • Note of the trail name, loop length and turnaround time

Hydration and food

  • Daypack Hydration, a bladder or bottles with enough water for the whole trip
  • Snacks that do not spill or spoil
  • A small bag for your trash

Bugs and sun

  • Tick Spray, applied as the label directs
  • Light long sleeves and pants, or socks pulled over pant cuffs
  • Sunscreen and a hat
  • Time set aside for a tick check when you get back

Comfort and safety

  • Light rain layer
  • Sturdy shoes with grip
  • Small first aid kit with blister care
  • Whistle
  • Phone, fully charged, with the park's emergency number saved

Sharing the trail

  • Plan to step aside and give a clear greeting when you meet bikes or horses
  • Dog leash, if dogs are allowed on the trail

Navigation

  • State Park Trail Map, paper copy from the trailhead or park office
  • Phone with the trail map saved offline
  • Note of the trail name, loop length and turnaround time

Hydration and food

  • Daypack Hydration, a bladder or bottles with enough water for the whole trip
  • Snacks that do not spill or spoil
  • A small bag for your trash

Bugs and sun

  • Tick Spray, applied as the label directs
  • Light long sleeves and pants, or socks pulled over pant cuffs
  • Sunscreen and a hat
  • Time set aside for a tick check when you get back

Comfort and safety

  • Light rain layer
  • Sturdy shoes with grip
  • Small first aid kit with blister care
  • Whistle
  • Phone, fully charged, with the park's emergency number saved

Sharing the trail

  • Plan to step aside and give a clear greeting when you meet bikes or horses
  • Dog leash, if dogs are allowed on the trail
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