- Good, comfortable hiking boots -- This cannot be stressed enough. Something that is mildly annoying when the hike begins could be painful or even drawing blood after only one hour. Make sure the boots fit properly and cover and protect the ankle. Waterproof boots are always a bonus.
- Extra socks -- Just in case those boots aren't waterproof after all, or a stream crossing is a little deeper than expected.
- Water -- It doesn't matter how long the hike is planned for, the weather might turn out to be hotter than expected, the trail may not be shaded, or the hike might be more difficult than anticipated. It's never a bad thing to have extra water available.
- Hat - Good enough to keep both the sun and the rain off.
- Rain gear -- At the very least bring along a garbage bag, but also know there are several places that sell rain ponchos folded so tightly they'll barely take up any room in a backpack.
- First Aid kit -- It doesn't have to be anything advanced -- just some moist towelettes, bandaids and gauze in a waterproof container. Many hiking stores have pre-packed kits available that are extremely lightweight and contain more supplies than the average medicine cabinet.
- Insect Repellent/Sunscreen -- These items should almost go without saying. Both should be brought on the trail and not left in the car because there's a good chance the sunscreen will need to be reapplied during the hike.
- Snacks -- some fruit, or an energy bar to keep energy up during the hike.
- Watch -- time passes quickly on the trail, especially if there's lots to explore. Hikers should know in advance how long the hike will take in both directions and plan accordingly.
- Camera - you never know when you'll have that perfect shot.
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