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Denali climbing permit

Denali Gear Checklist

What to carry on Denali, and why. 1 item is written into the permit rules and 9 more are worth the pack space.

10Total Items
1Required
9To bring

What to bring on Denali

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

    Clean Mountain Can for human waste

    Permit rule: “Clean Mountain Cans are required for human waste; clean climbing requirements are covered in the mandatory Expedition Planning Tools reading”

  • Bring

    Gear rated for below -40°F, 100+ mph winds, heavy snowfall and blazing sun

    and capable of holding up for weeks at a stretch

  • Bring

    Full glacier travel kit: crampons, ice axe, rope, harness, crevasse rescue gear

  • Bring

    Pulk sled for hauling

  • Bring

    Expedition tent and snow-camp tools

  • Bring

    FRS radio for on-mountain communication; channel 1 is monitored for emergencies

  • Bring

    A satellite phone, InReach, PLB or other satellite messenger

    NPS encourages one and cell phones do not work

  • Bring

    Skis or snowshoes for the lower glacier; most climbers leave flotation at the 11,200-foot camp

  • Bring

    Enough fuel and food for the 21-to-28-day version of the trip, not the 17-day one

  • Bring

    Altitude medications discussed with your doctor for treating symptoms if they appear

12 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 Denali — the Denali National Park 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 Denali

💡 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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