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Superior Hiking Trail Thru-Hike permit

SHT Thru-Hike Gear Checklist

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

10Total Items
10To bring

What to bring on SHT Thru-Hike

Specific to this permit, not a generic camping list.

  • Bring

    Water filter

    streams are abundant but need treatment

  • Bring

    Rain gear

    North Shore weather is unpredictable

  • Bring

    Layers

    temperature swings are dramatic

  • Bring

    DEET or permethrin for mosquitoes and ticks

  • Bring

    Trail map or GPS

    many trail junctions

  • Bring

    Trekking poles for rocky terrain

  • Bring

    Gaiters for wet conditions

  • Bring

    Bear canister or hang system

    black bears present

  • Bring

    Tick key or tweezers

  • Bring

    Camera for Lake Superior views

10 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 SHT Thru-Hike — the Superior Hiking 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 SHT 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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