What to Bring
Select a season and terrain type below. Check off items as you pack to ensure nothing is missed before departure.
Summer Strolls — General Items
Deep Autumn Climbs — Additional Items
Wetlands — Terrain-Specific Items
Rocky Ridges — Terrain-Specific Items
Paved Paths — Minimal Requirements
What Not to Bring
These items create common group issues on the trail. Leave them at home or in your vehicle.
- Rigid non-breathing footwear (dress shoes, flat soles without grip)
- Unstrapped luggage or large backpacks without waist belts
- Portable speakers or loud audio devices
- Glass containers (safety hazard on uneven terrain)
- Pets (group walks do not accommodate animals)
- Drones (not permitted on metro park trails)
Group Pacing & Attendance Estimator
Adjust the variables below to estimate total trail time, recommended rest breaks, and group water supply for your walk.
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Estimated Trail Time
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Rest Breaks
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Group Water Supply
Final Preparation Steps
Review the walk ledger for your specific route terrain type and match it to the checklist above. Use the pace coordinator to estimate arrival time back at the trailhead.
Arrive 15 minutes early with all checked items packed. Guides perform a brief gear review at the meeting point for ridge and wetland routes.
View Walk Ledger