May is here, bringing with it a flurry of occasions like Mother’s Day, graduations, and the beckoning call of summer hiking adventures! As the trails start to lure us out, here is my essential Alaska Outdoor Gear Guide. These are all items I’ve found invaluable for this time of year:
Hiking Boots
I swear by my Kenetrek boots. They offer excellent support and rise high enough on my ankles to fend off burrs and prevent rocks from sneaking into uncomfortable places. While they may require a serious investment, they’re worth every penny. In my younger days, I relied on running shoes and later trail shoes, but as my feet needed more support, I made the switch. When it comes to our kids, we upgrade them to hiking boots in their late teens when their feet have stopped growing. Brands like Columbia, Keen, and Solomon have served us well. Look for boots with a stiffer sole, ample tread, ankle support, roomy toe box, and easy lacing for a comfortable fit.
Backpacks
For summer excursions, I have three go-to backpacks:
- Kelty Avocet Backpack: This spacious bag features a main compartment with an internal pocket for a water bladder, a zip-closed top flap pocket perfect for essentials like keys, and adjustable padded shoulder straps with a waistband for added support. Its internal frame and padded back ensure comfort during long treks. This bag is no longer made by Kelty but a similar one can be purchased here.
- FiShe Gear Brookie Backpack Dry Bag: With its eye-catching trout-inspired design and roll-down top, this waterproof backpack is ideal for wet adventures like fishing trips. While lacking a waist strap, it’s perfect for storing extra layers inside and valuables in its outside zippered pocket.
- High Sierra Day Hiking Bag: This versatile bag is my summer essential, serving as my go-to purse by the door. It features multiple compartments, side pouches for water bottles, a waist strap for stability, and enough space for essentials like a water bladder, snacks, rain jacket, and bear spray. There are so many different brands of day hiking bags, I suggest finding one in your budget.
Extra Layers
Alaskan weather can be unpredictable, so I always pack extra layers to stay prepared. Here’s what I include:
- Fleece vest
- Lightweight scarf or neck warmer
- Comfy midweight layer like a sweatshirt or 3/4 zip shirt
- Rain jacket
- Beanie hat
- Baseball cap
- Lightweight gloves
Additional Essentials
- Bear spray
- Bug spray or bug wipes (I prefer wipes for my face and hands)
- Sunglasses
- Telescoping hiking poles for long or challenging hikes
- Water bladder for backpack, such as a CamelBak
With this gear arsenal, I’m ready to embark on Alaskan adventures from April to October. What about you? What gear do you rely on to make the most of this time of year?
If you already have all the gear you need check out our recommendations of our favorite hikes near Cooper Landing Lodge. There are over 20 trails near our cabins providing you with plenty of opportunity to get outside and explore. When you stay at our cabins you will have a place to recharge from hiking. Start off your morning cooking a hearty breakfast in your kitchen that looks out to the Kenai River. Finish the day grilling around the fire pit while retelling the highlights of the day. I hope you will come and create memories while staying at Cooper Landing Lodge.
