Everything I’m (Not) Carrying on the CDT
We’re two weeks away from setting out on the Continental Divide Trail! The last month has been full of hike prep, wrapping up work, and soaking up time with loved ones. Our son Isaac will join us for part of the hike, so we’ll see him in July. For our other kid Avi, our annual tradition is to go to concerts together in celebration of their birthday. Last month I visited them in Maine, and then we drove down to Boston together to see Magnetic Fields and hang out with some old friends.
Okay, enough blurry margaritas, it’s time to make final decisions about what gear to carry as we set out from the Mexico border, and what to send to ourselves at various points north.
You can check out my gear list to see exactly what I’m carrying. You might notice a couple of items marked as zero weight, including the tent. These are things Todd will carry but that are essential to my kit as well. (Not to worry, I’m still doing my part by carrying a bigger share of food!)
Below I’ll hit the highlights and explain when and why we’ll add or swap out gear. I’ll wrap up with some of my less typical gear choices. I’m doing it wrong, and so can you!
April 12, 2024
The Trek
Appalachian Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and everything in between. We are dedicated to serving long distance backpackers.
We are All Things Long-Distance backpacking.
Appalachian Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and everything in between. We are dedicated to serving the thru-hiking and long distance backpacking community.
NOTE: Cordial debate is allowed and encouraged. If you're rude, however, your comment will be deleted. If you make personal attacks at another commenter or a Trek Blogger or Writer, you will be banned from this page.
Explore More Content
Media Mentions
With Sawyer’s clothing and gear permethrin, you can spray your gear instead of yourself. And the odorless spray effectively works up to six weeks or washings. For turkey hunters, one dousing of Sawyer’s permethrin on your vest and gear should last you an entire season.
Media Mentions
Water filters are a must in the backcountry and the go-to filter that almost everyone uses is the lightweight hollow fiber micro-membrane filter called Sawyer Squeeze.
Media Mentions
Personally, I use Sawyer’s Fabric Treatment–available in pump or spray–for my hunting and hiking clothes.
From the Squad
Campfire conversations with our community, from Squad Members and Ambassadors to Brand Partners and the Sawyer team.
