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North Cascades Backcountry permit

NC Backcountry Gear Checklist

What to carry on NC Backcountry, and why. 8 more are worth the pack space.

8Total Items
8To bring

What to bring on NC Backcountry

Specific to this permit, not a generic camping list.

  • Bring

    Whatever food storage your specific camps require

    the park publishes hang, box, wire or canister per camp

  • Bring

    Water treatment

  • Bring

    Rain gear built for the wettest range in the lower 48

  • Bring

    An ice axe for any early-season high camp or cross-country zone

  • Bring

    A Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful pass for USFS trailhead parking

  • Bring

    Trekking poles for stream crossings

  • Bring

    Gaiters for brush and burn scars

  • Bring

    A vehicle with clearance for the gravel access roads

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 NC Backcountry — the North Cascades 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 NC Backcountry

💡 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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