A Guide to Hiking Gear

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The hiking in Montana is, quite simply, tremendous. The numerous mountain ranges, national parks and other remote corners of the state provide virtually unlimited hiking possibilities in beautiful and varied terrain. No matter the type of trails you like to hike on or the type of scenery you want to see, Montana almost certainly has a hiking trail for you.

As I love hiking, and because hiking is often needed to reach excellent fishing holes, I've put together this section on bigskyfishing that provices information about the hiking gear you will want to have for an enjoyable venture into the wilds of Montana. The hiking gear covered in this section of the site goes into detail about the gear needed for day hiking. In the future, a special backpacking gear section will also be created, although many of the items covered here are applicable to backpacking as well.

Hiking Gear Essentials

As Montana is a remote, mountainous and wild state, day hiking in Montana requires a bit more hiking gear than is required in most other places in the USA. Additionally, the remoteness of many areas of the state also require a hiker to exercise a bit more common sense than is needed then when hiking on popular eastern hiking trails.

For quick reference, listed below is what I would term "hiking gear essentials" that a person should have on most hikes in Montana. Clicking on any of the links from the list below will take you to a page that provides much more information about each type of hiking gear product.

Daypack : A good daypack can be a lifesaver when hiking. Unlike a "bookbag" or cheap thing you find at Walmart, a good daypack can allow a hiker to carry up to 20 lbs of bulky and awkward shaped gear in relative comfort. Learn more about Day Packs.

Hiking Boots : Don't even think about hiking in Montana without a good hiking boot. I'm always amazed at how many people wander around the trails in Glacier National Park with just sandals. Learn more about Hiking Boots.

Hiking Socks : The best hiking boot will do you little good if you just use a cotton sock. For hiking, a good pair of hiking socks should always be worn. Hiking socks prevent blisters and provide cushion to the foot. Learn more about Hiking Socks.

Fleece Jacket : If you plan on hiking in Montana during cooler weather, or in the higher elevations, a good fleece jacket is pretty much a necessity. Fleece jackets are a hikers best friend as they provide warmth and yet still pack down small and light. Learn more about Fleece Jackets.

Rain Jackets : A rain jacket is crucial to have when hiking in Montana, particularly the mountainous areas. While Montana isn't the rainiest of states, the mountains tend to receive much more moisture than the valleys. Learn more about Rain Jackets.

Hiking Pants : Hiking pants aren't a crucial piece of hiking gear to have, but they are sure handy to have around. Hiking pants are far better than blue jeans for a hike in Montana as they are light, dry very quickly (and are often waterproff), and easily convert to shorts on those days when it is sunny and hot. Learn more about Hiking Pants.

Trekking Poles & Hiking Staffs : Some people hate them, and others love them. I am in the latter group and never leave for a hike without my trusty hiking staff. A hiking staff not only makes hiking far safer, it makes it less fatiguing, too. Plus a hiking staff is a great way to pace yourself. Learn more about Hiking Staffs.

Hydration Systems & Water Bottles : Any person hiking in Montana should take along plenty of water, and a water bottle or hydration system (which fits inside the pack) is what is needed to carry it along. In this section I'll recommend some water bottles and hydration system to get and why you should get them. Learn more about Water Bottles & Hydration Systems.

Sunglasses : Sunglasses are essential for hiking in Montana or where ever else there may be lots of sun, such as on the beach, at high elevations or in the desert. In this section information about Sunglasses and the Sun's harmful rays is provided. Learn more about Sunglasses.

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