SUMMER
How to gear up for a day hike in the mountains?
In the mountains, the weather can shift fast. So how should you pack your backpack to hike with light shoulders without being caught out when the sky turns?
Below is the gear list to take in your backpack for a day-long Vercors summer hike with the Pied Vert mountain leaders.
In summary
- On you: a pair of closed shoes with a grippy sole, a light pair of trousers suited to walking, a t-shirt and (ordinary) underwear, hiking poles if you feel you need them
- A pair of closed shoes with a grippy sole
- A light pair of trousers suited to walking
- A t-shirt and (ordinary) underwear
- Hiking poles if you feel you need them
- In the backpack: a jumper, a waterproof jacket, water (1 to 2L), a picnic and snacks
- A jumper
- A waterproof jacket
- Water (1 to 2L), a picnic and snacks
In detail
On you
To feel comfortable hiking, we recommend first of all a good pair of closed shoes. Forget flip-flops or sandals, welcome soles with some grip.
Shorts can do the job, but we prefer light, breathable trousers. More versatile. They protect the legs in nettle-lined paths and can be rolled up like cropped trousers in the heat.
Underwear and a t-shirt, ideally breathable. What you usually wear should work. A t-shirt that covers the shoulders saves a sunscreen session, or some nice sunburn. Less sexy than a vest top but well worth it: at altitude, UV rays hit harder.A cap or hat is, in our view, important to avoid heatstroke. Sunglasses are mandatory for children whose cornea is still developing. For adults, they are strongly recommended.
Walking poles bring a real physical benefit, both for the gesture on the climb and to relieve the knees on the descent. They can be cumbersome. We advise against them for children.In your backpack
A jumper or a fleece-type jacket will almost certainly be needed if the wind picks up on a ridge or summit.
A shower can catch you out. A waterproof jacket or rain cape protects you at least minimally. If the wind is strong, the waterproof jacket is a welcome bonus.
A small personal first-aid kit is a plus. Sunscreen, a blister plaster and any personal medication. The mountain leader running the outing always carries a more complete first-aid kit.
Water (1 to 2 litres depending on the route and water points) is essential, and a picnic for lunch. Snacks are welcome to nibble along the way.Depending on the programme and the weight of your bag, we suggest slipping in a few small extras.
A headlamp for late-day outings or small cave explorations (your leader can lend one).
A pair of binoculars, ideal for spotting Vercors wildlife without disturbing the animals. Your leader will almost certainly have a pair tucked into their backpack.
A beanie, a pair of gloves and a neck warmer are welcome if the temperature drops sharply. The wind can blow strongly on summits like the Grand Veymont or the Molière ridges.
The backpack
A 20 to 30-litre bag is more than enough. If your kit doesn't fit, we'll take a moment at the start of the hike to fine-tune how you've packed it.
If your bag feels heavy on your shoulders, do ask: we can suggest simple ways to lighten it.
See also: