What to bring when spending the day at Big Pocono - Riday's Gate.
We've recently noticed more and more hikers coming out to enjoy the trail and it's always exciting to see people enjoying the natural beauty of the Poconos. It's a great way relax, keep healthy and/or spend some quality time with friends, family, and pets. Once you get to the top you see amazing views past the Delaware Water Gap, all the way to the Catskill Mountains in New York.
To get the most out of the day, there are a few things to bring along on your journey. Our starting point is going to be something to carry everything in. A backpack will definitely be your best option, whatever you have on hand will work.
What you wear on your feet is always important. Entering at Riday’s Gate offers over 10 miles of trails with elevations climbing to 2175 feet. Make sure that your footwear is comfortable, well-fitting, and durable. We use Keen or Merel hiking shoes, have hicked 100s of miles, and they are still in great shape.
Bring yourself a map of the trail and a compass when hiking any trail for the first few times, it is always important to know where you are. For maps, AllTrails is a great resource to learn more about a trail. Snapping a screenshot of the map is always best just in case you lose service along the way.
Bring water - at least twice the normal amount of what you would normally have on hand. This cannot be overstated. It is always better to have too much than too little. Running out can be dangerous, in both hot and cold weather.
Pack snacks - granola, nuts, fruit, beef jerky, candy, something that when you get hungry you can easily pop in your mouth. Sandwiches are also a great way to enjoy lunch on the trail. When it is cold, a thermos of coffee or soup can be a delight. Find a nice rock to pop a squat and take a moment to recharge while surrounded by nature.
Some additionally important items that are often overlooked on the trail include sunscreen, bug spray, a swiss army knife, a flashlight/headlamp, and a small first aid kit - bandaids, wound cleaner, tweezers can all come in handy. It is always important to be prepared when interacting with natural elements.
The outdoors is for everyone. The only thing that should be left behind is your footprints. Let's keep it clean for the animals that call it home and for fellow hikers to enjoy for many years to come.
ENJOY THE OUTDOORS
