Packed gear and supplies arranged before a group walk

The Pack List

Interactive preparation checklists grouped by season and terrain type, plus a pace coordinator to estimate trail time and water needs.

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.

Estimated Trail Time

Rest Breaks

Group Water Supply

Participant checking gear against a printed pack list

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