Hiking Gear Guide: Must-Haves for Hiking in Park City, Utah

Who doesn’t love a good hike? It’s a chance to soak in the beauty of the outdoors, get a great workout in, and enjoy some quality time with the family. Hiking is a fantastic way to stay active and appreciate nature, but the experience can be quickly ruined if you forget the essentials. Fear not, our hiking gear guide will help ensure you make the most of your adventures in Park City, Utah.

Sunscreen

Outdoors 101: sunscreen. This one seems like a no-brainer, but whether you’re hiking, biking, swimming, or simply just walking, applying SPF is crucial. The higher the altitude, the thinner the atmosphere, making it easier for UV rays to damage your skin. For every 1,000 feet gained in elevation, UV exposure increases by 2%! So before you hit the trails, make sure to prep and prime that skin — and don’t forget to reapply at least every two hours.

Clothing

Sunscreen isn’t your only defense against the sun. While it might be tempting to wear less clothing in the heat, covering up can actually be more beneficial. Choose long-sleeve shirts and pants made from lightweight, swat-wicking fabrics that keep moisture away from your skin. And since mountain weather can be unpredictable, you might want to pack a rain poncho and extra socks just in case.

Shoes

Flip flops are great for lounging by the pool, but not for tackling rugged trails. Utah offers a variety of diverse hiking paths, so invest in a sturdy pair of hiking boots to protect your feet from sharp and uneven terrain. Make sure to break in those boots before you head out, hiking in the wrong shoes can really leave you in a “blistering” situation!

Hydration

Water is essential for any outdoor activity in the summertime. Packing more water than you think you’ll need is always smart. Yes, water bottles might be heavy, but the more you drink, the lighter your load becomes as you go about your trek. So drink up! Start your hike well hydrated and keep sipping throughout the day.

Food

Keeping your energy levels up is key on a hike. You can never have too many snacks, especially on longer explorations. Packing calorie-dense snacks like trail mix, jerky, dried fruit, and granola bars are great lightweight options for sustaining energy. Always try and carry extra portions in case you find yourself out hiking for longer than you anticipated.

Navigation

While a cellphone is great for capturing those ’Gram-worthy selfies when you reach the peak, it’s not always the most optimal solution for finding your way around trails. You never know when you might lose connection or the battery will run out, so keep a map, compass, or GPS device handy to ensure you can always find your way.

Quick Tip: Research prior to your hike to get a feel for the trials. A little extra planning can go a long way in ensuring a smooth adventure.

Backpack

A reliable backpack is essential for holding all your gear while you hike. Look for one that offers good support and enough space to carry everything you need comfortably. In addition to the items we’ve mentioned — sunscreen, clothing, shoes, water, food, and navigation tools — make sure to throw a first aid kit in your bag as well. You never know what might happen on the tail, so it’s always better to be prepared.

Relax with Shoreline

Now that you’re geared up, you’re ready for an amazing time on the trails.  Shoreline offers access to miles of private and public trails, so your next hike is just outside your door.  And when you’re ready to unwind from all the adventuring, you can do so in the comfort of your Shoreline home. Enjoy the perfect blend of outdoor living areas, and top-notch interior amenities. Experience the best of both worlds at Shoreline. (And happy hiking!)

For a virtual tour of our spacious yet cozy Shoreline homes, contact us at shorelineparkcity.com