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Colorado Trail Thru-Hike permit

CT Thru-Hike Gear Checklist

What to carry on CT Thru-Hike, and why. 10 more are worth the pack space.

10Total Items
10To bring

What to bring on CT Thru-Hike

Specific to this permit, not a generic camping list.

  • Bring

    Rain gear

    afternoon thunderstorms daily in summer

  • Bring

    Warm layers

    nights are cold even in August

  • Bring

    Bear-resistant food storage

    canisters recommended; hanging difficult in many areas

  • Bring

    Water filter

    sources generally abundant but require treatment

  • Bring

    Sun protection

    much of trail is above treeline

  • Bring

    Trekking poles

    essential for the elevation changes

  • Bring

    Lightning protection plan and emergency shelter

  • Bring

    Town clothes and resupply containers for mail drops

  • Bring

    Colorado Trail Databook or GPS app

  • Bring

    Cash for small-town resupplies

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 CT Thru-Hike — the Colorado Trail 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 CT Thru-Hike

💡 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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