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Loowit Trail permit

Loowit Trail Gear Checklist

What to carry on Loowit Trail, 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 Loowit Trail

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

    Northwest Forest Pass for parking

    Permit rule: “No wilderness permit required (only Northwest Forest Pass for parking)”

  • Bring

    High-capacity water storage

    3-4+ liters—water is scarce

  • Bring

    High-quality sun protection

    no shade for miles

  • Bring

    Sturdy, high-traction boots

    volcanic terrain is rough

  • Bring

    Gaiters

    volcanic ash penetrates everything

  • Bring

    GPS device

    trail is poorly marked in places

  • Bring

    Bandana or pre-filter for silty water sources

  • Bring

    50 feet of cord for rope-assisted gully crossings

  • Bring

    Backup water treatment

    plan for worst case

  • Bring

    Lightweight shelter rated for wind exposure

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 Loowit Trail — the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument 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 Loowit Trail

💡 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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