Happy Friday-eve! Wow this went by so fast. Too bad I haven't been feeling so great. Boo. Hoping it clears itself up before the long weekend! What do you have planned? We're not really sure yet, but I'm sure it will be something fun. Anyone racing over Labor Day? We have one 10k/5k trail race there is here in town, but it's almost always sold out (and we've always been backpacking on that day) so I've YET to participate. Maybe one year...

I wanted to share with you 10 TOP Hiking Essentials that I always take with me on a Day Hike. 

I try to keep my pack lighter (since the mileage typically isn't as long), but still make sure that I have plenty of water, snacks, and a few things incase something goes wrong during the hike. 

• 1. Enough water to last me 24-48 HOURS. This may seem a bit excessive, but if you do end up staying out much longer than you intended water is imperative. I normally judge it by how long the hike is, how remote the hike is (if it will take longer for someone to find/rescue me I take more water), and how many water crossings there are (if there are NONE, I take extra water). 
• 2. Snacks to last me 2 DAYS. I'm a bit of a overpacker in the essentials (food/water), but if I were stuck outside for longer than I anticipated then I would be thankful for my overly excessive packing skills. I mainly pack lighter, but nutrient dense foods. Granola Bars, Honey Stinger Chews, Apples, Dried Fruit, PB&J Sandwich, Trail Mixes, Beef Jerkey, Dry Cereal, Tuna in To-Go Packets are some of my favorites. 
• 3. First Aid Kit with waterproof matches, band-aids, emergency blanket, small thing of wool (works great for blisters), whistle. I bought a small, light-weight first aid kit that includes all of the above (besides the wool). I also carry bear spray with me. 
• 4. Rain Jacket
• 5. Extra pair of socks. Because if there is even the smallest stream, you better believe that I will most likely get my feet wet. 

• 6. One extra layer for both bottoms & tops. Something light like leggings and a fleece are fairly light but will keep you warm if anything were to happen. 
• 7. Camera. Something to capture all those beautiful lakes, views, and mountains you're bound to come across!
• 8. Map & Compass. So helpful and necessary. Especially if you get mixed-up or need to take a detour at some point. KNOW how to use a compass as well before you go.
• 9. Headlamp or flashlight. If you were to spend the night somewhere, you'll be thankful you brought something to help you see through the darkness.
• 10. Book. Whether it's a book about wildflowers, pleasure read, book about hikes in the area something for you to stop and appreciate along the way or once you get to your destination lake or summit. 

Anything else that's on your must-have hiking list?!?