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Sierra National Forest Wilderness permit

Sierra NF Wilderness Gear Checklist

What to carry on Sierra NF Wilderness, and why. 1 item is written into the permit rules and 8 more are worth the pack space.

9Total Items
1Required
8To bring

What to bring on Sierra NF Wilderness

Specific to this permit, not a generic camping list. One item is written into the permit rules, and every one of those carries the rule it comes from.

  • Required

    Bear-resistant food canister for the areas that require it

    Permit rule: “Bear-resistant food storage is required in specific areas and recommended everywhere”

  • Bring

    Map and compass or a downloaded offline map

    most of the area has no cell service

  • Bring

    Water treatment

  • Bring

    Photo ID matching the permit for pickup

  • Bring

    Layers for high-elevation weather in any month

  • Bring

    Satellite messenger for a range with no coverage

  • Bring

    Microspikes and an ice axe for early-season passes

  • Bring

    A trowel and the discipline to bury waste 6 to 8 inches deep and 100 feet from water

  • Bring

    Mesh strainer and a plan for grey water

15 people can go on one permit. Split this list between them so nobody carries two stoves.

Build a shared list

General backcountry gear

Kit we recommend for backcountry trips in general. This is not a checklist specific to Sierra NF Wilderness — the Sierra National Forest rules for this permit are above.

🎒
Recommended
Wild Ideas

Bearikade Weekender

Ultralight carbon fiber bear canister. IGBC certified.

1 lb 15 ozultralightcarbon-fiber
$325
🎒
Recommended
Katadyn

BeFree 1L

Ultralight collapsible filter system.

2 ozultralightfast-flow
$44.95
🎒
Recommended
BearVault

BV500 Bear Vault

The most popular bear canister for Sierra backpacking. Fits 7 days of food.

2 lbs 9 oz7-day capacityapproved
$89.95
🎒
Recommended
Black Diamond

Distance Carbon Z

Lightweight folding carbon poles.

1 lb 1 ozcarbonfolding
$169.95
🎒
Recommended
Sawyer

Sawyer Squeeze

The most popular water filter for backpacking.

3 ozpopularreliable
$37.95

Gear Tips for Sierra NF Wilderness

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Weigh your pack before you go. A lighter pack makes for a happier hike.
  • •Rent expensive gear if you are trying a new activity for the first time.
  • •Test all new gear at home before hitting the trail.
  • •Check current regulations as some items may be required seasonally.

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