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Yellowstone Backcountry Gear Checklist

Everything you need for your Yellowstone Backcountry adventure. 1 required items and 1 recommended items.

2Total Items
1Required
1Recommended
🎒
Required
BearVault

BV500 Bear Canister

Required for wilderness areas with bear activity

2 lbs 9 ozrequiredfood-storage
$79.95
🎒
Recommended
Nemo

Nemo Hornet Elite 2P

Ultralight 2-person tent perfect for backpacking

2 lbsultralightbackpacking
$449.95

Gear Tips for Yellowstone Backcountry

⚠️ Required Gear

  • •Bear spray, on your hip rather than in the pack
  • •Rope for the food poles - the park says at least 35 feet, though Recreation.gov's site listings say 30, so carry 35
  • •A hard-sided bear-resistant container if you prefer one to hanging; soft-sided containers are prohibited
  • •Water treatment
  • •Layers for nights that drop below freezing at 8,000 feet in any month

✓ Recommended Gear

  • •Shoes you can ford in - most long Yellowstone routes cross unbridged water
  • •A head net for the mosquito peak in late June and July
  • •Trekking poles for river crossings
  • •A map, because bison trails braid off the real one constantly

💡 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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