Our off-campus trips will take you into the heart of Montana’s incredible landscapes exploring the mountains, rivers, and forests. There you will gain outdoor skills, challenge yourself, and build lasting friendships through shared adventures.

The journey doesn’t end on the trail. Our on-campus clinics are the perfect way to grow your outdoor knowledge and confidence. Here you can learn everything from avalanche safety to backcountry cooking—all in a supportive, hands-on environment led by our experienced staff of student leaders.

No experience necessary, just bring your curiosity and a willingness to learn. Come explore with us, connect with others, and discover what’s possible outside!

 Trip or Clinic Sign-Up

 

If you have questions not answered below about Trips, Clinics, or Expeditions MSU
please email trips@montana.edu.

Trip Information:

  • Student Pricing is available to those who have paid the ASMSU activity fee for the current semester. This includes students taking at least 7 credits or those taking fewer credits that have opted to pay these fees separately (at the cashier's windows in Montana Hall).
  • All other MSU affiliates are eligible to participate at the non-student rate.
  • Specialty programs (Expeditions MSU programming, etc.) will have their own eligibility policies.
    • Expeditions MSU is only available for incoming freshman enrolled in the upcoming Fall semester.
  • Trip and clinic prices include instruction, group gear, essential safety equipment, transportation, and any personal items rented through our rental shop.

We strive to accommodate and encourage a range of participants. That said, group and individual safety is essential, which means there are some criteria that can help you assess whether a particular trip is right for you at this time. For more information on physical requirements for specific trips, please visit this page.

  • You may sign up through our online portal linked above. If you’re struggling with this process, send us an email at trips@montana.edu.
  • Payment is due in full at the time of registration to secure your spot on a trip or in a clinic.
    • Trip and clinic prices include instruction, group gear, essential safety equipment, transportation, and any personal items rented through our rental shop.

  • Cancellations made a week or more prior to the course start date will receive a 100% refund.
  • Cancellations made between 6 to 2 days prior to the course start date will receive a 50% refund.
  • No refunds will be given for cancellation less than 48 hours before the course's start date.
  • A direct transfer from one program to another during the same semester will receive no penalty.
  • Refunds will be given in the form of payment you initially paid in.
  • If a trip is cancelled due to unsafe weather conditions or lack of enrollment, all participants will receive a full refund.
  • Specialty programs (Expeditions MSU programming, etc.) will have their own cancellation policy.
    • For Expeditions MSU: Cancellations made three weeks or more prior to course start date will receive a 100% refund. Cancellations made between 3 to 2 weeks prior to the course start date will receive a 50% refund. Cancellations made between 2 weeks to 7 days prior to the course start date will receive a 25% refund. No refund will be given for cancellations made less than a week prior to the course start date.

  • None of our trip locations have reliable cell phone coverage. We ask our students and staff to turn off and stow their phones while with us, so they can be fully present in the experience and part of the group.
  • All our trips carry a satellite text message communication device.
  • Each trip leader has been trained in wilderness medicine and our program’s emergency communication protocols.
  • We staff a leadership response team stationed in Bozeman who are available to communicate with trip leaders 24-hours a day while trips are out.
  • If you need to contact students or staff while on a course, please reach out to the Outdoor Program at trips@montana.edu for assistance.

  • Where and at what time do I need to show up for my Expeditions program?
    • Please arrive at the Outdoor Recreation Program Building (1401 W Lincoln St, Bozeman MT) at 3:00pm the day your trip begins.
    • We ask that once participants are dropped off with us, they stay under our supervision. This will ensure that participants are accounted for and taken care of.
  • Where can I stay before or after my Expedition?
  • Can I move into my dorm room before my Expedition trip?
    • For any Expedition help the week prior to the semester start date students will be able to move into their dorm room on the first morning of the course prior to meeting trip leaders at 3pm.
    • Once students get back from the field, they will be able to return to their rooms.
  • How does Expeditions relate to Orientation?
    • These trips are intended to deepen students' connection to their peers, MSU, and Montana and are typically held in conjunction with the summer Orientation sessions.
    • Expeditions do not function as a replacement for Orientation. We encourage students to attend whatever orientation works best for their schedule!
  • What can I do with my extra luggage while I'm in the field?
    • Participants can leave a small amount of luggage at Outdoor Recreation. These items will be stored until the students return from the field.
  • Where can I leave my car during Expeditions MSU?
  • What are my options for dietary accommodations?
    • When registering for Expeditions you will be asked about your dietary needs so please answer thoroughly so we can best meet your needs.
    • Our meals can accommodate gluten free, nut allergies, and dairy free individuals.
    • All our food is stored in one facility, so if you are concerned about cross-contamination, please contact us about what further accommodation can be provided. If your allergy is severe, we will work with you on ways to further limit food contamination in the field.

 Montana State University is an equal opportunity service provider that conducts certain activities under special permit with the US Forest Service, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks and the Bureau of Land Management. Montana State University Outdoor Recreation trips are permitted on the Custer Gallatin National Forest.

 

Packing List

MSU provides any technical gear required. We ask you to provide the clothing and personal items listed below. Items available for rent are marked with an asterisk *

 

Required Items:   

  • Base Layer Top: poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Mid Layer (sweater, wool, fleece, etc.)*: poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Waterproof Jacket: 100% waterproof, Gore-Tex, or similar shell.
  • Base Layer Bottoms: poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Waterproof Pants: 100% waterproof, Gore-Tex, or similar pants.
  • Puffy Layer*: down or synthetic, hood recommended.
  • Wool Socks
  • Mittens or Gloves: preferably waterproof.
  • Warm Hat
  • Balaclava or Buff: to keep your face and ears warm.
  • Eye Protection: sunglasses with a retainer strap such as Croakies or ski goggles. Good quality, with 100% UV protection recommended.
  • Split Board or Backcountry Skis with Compatible Boots and Skins*: for avalanche courses, all skis must have brakes or leashes to ride the lifts at Bridger Bowl.
  • Ski Poles*
  • Helmet*
  • Beacon, Shovel, and Probe*
  • Backpack (approx. 25-35 liters)
  • Water Bottles or Water Bladder (Camelback style): 1L minimum carry capacity.
  • Lunch and Snacks: granola bars, trail mix, sandwich, fruit, etc.
  • Sunscreen
  • Medications

 

Optional Items:   

  • Watch (highly recommended)
  • Camera  
  • Small Notebook and Pen or Pencil (we recommend Rite in the Rain notebooks)  

 

**Wondering about how to pee and poop in the winter backcountry? Look through this website and ask your trip leader for additional information!

 

MSU provides all technical gear, shelters, navigation tools, first aid equipment, water treatment, safety equipment, and cooking gear. We ask you to provide, if possible, the clothing and personal items listed below. Getting your hands on all this gear might feel overwhelming, and we’re here to help! We can rent many of the items on this list. Items available for rent at our shop are marked with an asterisk * 

 

Top Layers:

  • Sports Bra x1-2: synthetic and quick drying.
  • Base Layer (t-shirt or long sleeve) x1-2: poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Mid Layer (sweater, wool, fleece, etc.) x1*: poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Puffy Layer (or additional warm mid layer) x1*: down or synthetic, hood recommended.
  • Rain Layer x1*: 100% waterproof, Gore-Tex or similar fabric recommended.

 

Bottom Layers:  

  • Underwear x2-5: cotton or synthetic, depending on personal preference.
  • Base Layer (long underwear) x1: poly-pro/synthetic, technical wool, or silk.
  • Active Layer (hiking pants or shorts) x2: synthetic, sturdy, and quick drying.
  • Rain Layer (rain pants) x1*: 100% waterproof, should fit over your other layers.

 

Feet:

  • Hiking Boots x1*: we recommend a pair of sturdy, waterproof, above the ankle boots.
  • Camp Shoes x1: either water shoes with a heel strap and/or comfortable closed-toes shoes for around camp and cooking.
  • Wool Socks x2-3: 1-2 pair for hiking and 1 pair for sleeping.

 

Head and Hands:

  • Sun Hat x1
  • Warm Hat x1: wool or synthetic.
  • Thin Gloves x1: wool or synthetic.
  • Sunglasses x1: with retainer strap such as Croakies so you don’t lose them. Good quality, with 100% UV protection recommended.

 

Other:

  • Sleeping Bag x1*: down or synthetic, ~15 °F recommended.
  • Sleeping Pad x1*: closed cell foam or inflatable.
  • Backpack (approx. 75L capacity) x1*
  • Water Bottles or Water Bladder (Camelback style): 2L minimum carrying capacity. If bringing a bladder-style device, you must also bring one rigid bottle as a backup.
    • Pro tip: use a 16oz Nalgene bottle as a mug/backup combo!
  • Headlamp (plus extra batteries) x1*

 

Personal Hygiene and Toiletries:

  • Sunscreen
  • Chapstick
  • Bandana
  • Toothbrush and Paste
  • Medications: enough to take for the entire five-day trip stored in an appropriate waterproof container.
  • Menstrual Products
  • Glasses/Contacts Case and Travel-size Solution: if you wear contact lenses, plan to bring a backup pair of glasses and plenty of lens solution. If you wear glasses, consider bringing a neck strap for them and/or an extra pair.

 

Optional Items:  

  • Trekking Poles* (highly recommend at least one)
  • Watch (highly recommended)
  • Gaiters*
  • Long Sleeve Sun Shirt (can serve as your base layer!)
  • Camera
  • Buff or Bandana
  • Liner Socks (thin dress socks work great for this)
  • Mug* (for coffee, tea, or hot chocolate)
  • Book
  • Small Notebook and Pen or Pencil (we recommend Rite in the Rain)
  • Camp Chair* (Crazy creek or equivalent)

 

***For all participants who squat when they pee, we also provide a bandana to use as a “pee bandana.” For more information on this and backcountry menstruation options check out: https://andrewskurka.com/2013/female-hygiene-guide-tips/  

MSU provides any technical gear required. We ask you to provide the clothing and personal items listed below. Items available for rent are marked with an asterisk *

 

  • Base Layer Top (T-shirt/long sleeve) x1-2: poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Mid Layer (sweater, wool, fleece, etc.) x1*: poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Rain Jacket: 100% waterproof, Gore-Tex or similar fabric recommended.
  • Active Layer Bottoms (hiking pants or shorts): synthetic, sturdy, and quick drying.
  • Approach Shoes*: sturdy closed-toe shoes.
  • Climbing Shoes*
  • Small Backpack (approx. 25-35L)
  • Water Bottles or Water Bladder (Camelback style): 1L minimum carry capacity.
  • Lunch and Snacks: granola bars, trail mix, sandwich, fruit, etc.
  • Sunscreen
  • Medications
  • Sun Hat
  • Sunglasses: with retainer strap such as Croakies so you don’t lose them. Good quality, with 100% UV protection recommended.

 

Optional Items:   

  • Watch
  • Long Sleeve Sun Shirt  
  • Camera
  • Buff or Bandana
  • Chalk Bag*

MSU provides all technical gear, shelters, navigation tools, first aid equipment, water treatment, safety equipment, and cooking gear. We ask you to provide, if possible, the clothing and personal items listed below. Getting your hands on all this gear might feel overwhelming, and we’re here to help! We can rent many of the items on this list. Items available for rent are marked with an asterisk * 

 

Top Layers:

  • Sports Bra x1-2: synthetic and quick drying.
  • Base Layer (T-shirt/long sleeve) x1-2: poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Mid Layer (sweater, wool, fleece, etc.) x1*: poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Puffy Layer (or additional warm mid layer) x1: down or synthetic, hood recommended.
  • Rain Layer x1*: 100% waterproof, Gore-Tex or similar fabric recommended.

 

Bottom Layers:  

  • Underwear x2-5: cotton or synthetic, depending on personal preference.
  • Base Layer (long underwear) x1: poly-pro/synthetic, technical wool, or silk.
  • Active Layer (hiking pants or shorts) x2: synthetic, sturdy, and quick drying.
  • Rain Layer (rain pants) x1*: 100% waterproof, should fit over your other layers.

 

Feet:

  • Hiking Boots x1*: we recommend a pair of sturdy, waterproof boots.
  • Camp Shoes x1: comfortable closed-toes shoes for around camp and cooking.
  • Wool Socks x2-3
  • Water Shoes x1*: sandals with a heel strap or old running shoes for swimming.

 

Head and Hands:

  • Sun Hat x1
  • Warm Hat x1: wool or synthetic
  • Thin Gloves x1: wool or synthetic
  • Sunglasses x1: with retainer strap such as Croakies so you don’t lose them. Good quality, with 100% UV protection recommended.

 

Other:

  • Bathing Suit x1: or clothing you can swim in.
  • Quick-dry Towel x1
  • Sleeping Bag x1*: down or synthetic, ~15°F recommended.
  • Sleeping Pad x1*: closed cell foam or inflatable.
  • Day Pack x1: approximately 20L capacity
  • Water Bottles or Water Bladder (Camelback style): 2L minimum carry capacity. If bringing a bladder-style device, you must also bring one rigid bottle as a backup.
  • Headlamp (plus extra batteries) x1*

 

Personal Hygiene and Toiletries:  

  • Sunscreen
  • Chapstick
  • Bandana
  • Toothbrush and Paste
  • Medications: enough to take for the entire five-day trip stored in an appropriate container.
  • Menstrual Products
  • Glasses/Contacts Case and Travel-size Solution: if you wear contact lenses, plan to bring a backup pair of glasses and plenty of lens solution. If you wear glasses, consider bringing a neck strap for them and/or an extra pair.

 

Optional Items:   

  • Watch (highly recommended)
  • Sarong or Towel (large enough to change under, highly recommended)
  • Long Sleeve Sun Shirt  
  • Cotton Camp Clothes (for at camp or in the car)
  • Camera  
  • Buff or Bandana
  • Liner Socks (thin dress socks work great for this)  
  • Personal Mug* (for coffee, tea, or hot chocolate)
  • Book
  • Small Notebook and Pen or Pencil (we recommend Rite in the Rain notebooks)  

 

***For all participants who squat when they pee, we also provide a bandana to use as a “pee bandana.” For more information on this and backcountry menstruation options check out: https://andrewskurka.com/2013/female-hygiene-guide-tips/  

MSU provides any technical gear required. We ask you to provide the clothing and personal items listed below. Items available for rent are marked with an asterisk *

 

Required Items:   

  • Base Layer Top: poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Mid Layer (sweater, wool, fleece, etc.)*: poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Rain Jacket: 100% waterproof, Gore-Tex or similar fabric recommended.
  • Active Layer Bottoms*: waterproof or synthetic softshell pants.
  • Puffy Layer*: down or synthetic, hood recommended.
  • Wool Socks
  • Mittens or Gloves: preferably waterproof.
  • Warm Hat
  • Balaclava or Buff: to keep your face and ears warm.
  • Eye Protection: sunglasses with a retainer strap such as Croakies or ski goggles. Good quality, with 100% UV protection recommended.
  • XC Skis and Compatible Boots*
  • Ski Poles*
  • Backpack (approx. 25-35 liters)
  • Water Bottles or Water Bladder (Camelback style): 1L minimum carry capacity.
  • Lunch and Snacks: granola bars, trail mix, sandwich, fruit, etc.
  • Sunscreen
  • Medications

 

Optional Items:   

  • Watch (highly recommended)
  • Gaiters*
  • Camera  

 

**Wondering about how to pee and poop in the winter backcountry? Look through this website and ask your trip leader for additional information!

MSU provides any technical gear required. We ask you to provide the clothing and personal items listed below. Items available for rent are marked with an asterisk *

 

Required Items:   

  • Base Layer Top (T-shirt/long sleeve): poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Mid Layer (sweater, wool, fleece, etc.)*: poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Rain Jacket: 100% waterproof, Gore-Tex or similar fabric recommended.
  • Active Layer Bottoms (hiking pants or shorts): synthetic, sturdy, and quick drying.
  • Hiking Boots*: we recommend a pair of sturdy, waterproof boots.
  • Small Backpack (approx. 10-20L)
  • Water Bottles or Water Bladder (Camelback style): 1L minimum carry capacity.
  • Lunch and Snacks: granola bars, trail mix, sandwich, fruit, etc.
  • Sunscreen
  • Medications
  • Sun Hat
  • Sunglasses: with retainer strap such as Croakies so you don’t lose them. Good quality, with 100% UV protection recommended.

 

Optional Items:   

  • Trekking Poles*
  • Gaiters*
  • Long Sleeve Sun Shirt  
  • Camera  
  • Buff or Bandana

MSU provides any technical gear required. The morning of your trip, you will receive insulating wet suits, splash jackets, and life jackets. Please let your trip leader know if you need to borrow any warm layers or a rain jacket as well! We ask you to provide the clothing and personal items listed below. Items available for rent are marked with an asterisk *

 

Required Items:   

  • Base Layer Top (T-shirt/long sleeve): poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Mid Layer (sweater, wool, fleece, etc.)*: poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Rain Jacket: 100% waterproof, Gore-Tex or similar fabric recommended.
  • Active Layer Bottoms (shorts or swim trunks): synthetic and quick drying.
  • Water Shoes*: sandals with a heel strap, booties, or old running shoes.
  • Small Backpack (approx. 10-20L)
  • Water Bottles: 1L minimum carry capacity.
  • Lunch and Snacks: granola bars, trail mix, sandwich, fruit, etc.
  • Sunscreen
  • Medications
  • Sun Hat
  • Sunglasses: with retainer strap such as Croakies so you don’t lose them. Good quality, with 100% UV protection recommended.

 

Optional Items:   

  • Long Sleeve Sun Shirt  
  • Camera (in an appropriate waterproof case)
  • Buff or Bandana
  • Wet Suite*
  • Splash Jacket*
  • Type III PFD*

MSU provides any technical gear required. We will provide rods, reels, and nets during the course. You are also welcome to bring your own equipment. We ask you to provide the clothing and personal items listed below. Items available for rent are marked with an asterisk *

 

Required Items:   

  • Base Layer (T-shirt/long sleeve): poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Mid Layer (sweater, wool, fleece, etc.): poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Rain Layer*: 100% waterproof, Gore-Tex or similar fabric recommended.
  • Base Layer (long underwear): poly-pro/synthetic, technical wool, or silk.
  • Waders*: Fishing-specific, with attached feet
  • Sun Hat
  • Sunglasses: with retainer strap such as Croakies so you don’t lose them. good quality, with 100% UV protection recommended.
  • Wading Boots*: we recommend a pair of sturdy, waterproof, above the ankle wading boots.
  • Wool Socks
  • Small Backpack (approx. 20L)
  • Water Bottles or Water Bladder (Camelback style): 1L minimum carry capacity.
  • Lunch and Snacks: granola bars, trail mix, sandwich, fruit, etc.
  • Car Bag (to leave in the car with a warm change of clothes)
  • Sunscreen
  • Chapstick
  • Medications

 

Optional Items:   

  • Long Sleeve Sun Shirt  
  • Rod and Reel*
  • Net*
  • Camera (in an appropriate waterproof container)
  • Buff or Bandana

MSU provides any technical gear required. We will provide harnesses, crampons, helmets, and ice tools during the course. You are also welcome to bring your own equipment. Please let your instructor know if you need to borrow any additional layers. We ask you to provide the clothing and personal items listed below. Items available for rent are marked with an asterisk *

 

Required Items:   

  • Base Layer Top: poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Mid Layer (sweater, wool, fleece, etc.)*: poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Waterproof Jacket: 100% waterproof, Gore-Tex, or similar shell.
  • Base Layer Bottoms: poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Waterproof Pants: 100% waterproof, Gore-Tex, or similar pants.
  • Puffy Layer*: down or synthetic, hood recommended.
  • Wool Socks
  • Mittens or Gloves: one thin pair for dexterity and one thick, waterproof pair for warmth recommended.
  • Warm Hat
  • Balaclava or Buff: to keep your face and ears warm.
  • Eye Protection*: sunglasses with a retainer strap such as Croakies or ski goggles.
  • Mountaineering Boots*
  • Backpack (approx. 25-35 liters)
  • Water Bottles or Water Bladder (Camelback style): 1L minimum carry capacity.
  • Lunch and Snacks: granola bars, trail mix, sandwich, fruit, etc.
  • Sunscreen
  • Medications

 

Optional Items:   

  • Watch (highly recommended)
  • Gaiters* (recommended for baggy snowpants)
  • Harness*
  • Crampons*
  • Ice Tools*
  • Helmet*
  • Camera  
  • Small Notebook and Pen or Pencil (we recommend Rite in the Rain notebooks)  

 

**Wondering about how to pee and poop in the winter backcountry? Look through this website and ask your trip leader for additional information!

MSU provides any technical gear required. The morning of your trip, you will receive insulating wet suits, splash jackets, water booties, life jackets, and helmets. Please let your trip leader know if you need to borrow any warm layers or a rain jacket as well! We ask you to provide the clothing and personal items listed below. Items available for rent are marked with an asterisk *

 

Required Items:   

  • Bathing Suit: or clothing you can swim in.
  • Rain Jacket: 100% waterproof, Gore-Tex or similar fabric recommended.
  • Water Bottle: 1L minimum carry capacity.
  • Lunch and Snacks: granola bars, trail mix, sandwich, fruit, etc.
  • Car Bag: with a warm change of clothes, quick dry towel, and raincoat.
  • Sunscreen
  • Medications
  • Sun Hat
  • Sunglasses: with retainer strap such as Croakies so you don’t lose them. Good quality, with 100% UV protection recommended.

 

Optional Items:   

  • Long Sleeve Sun Shirt  
  • Camera (in an appropriate waterproof case)
  • Buff or Bandana
  • Wet Suite*
  • Splash Jacket*
  • Type V PFD*
  • Whitewater Helmet*
  • Water Shoes* (sandals with a heel strap, booties, or old running shoes)

MSU provides any technical gear required. We will provide ropes, belay devices, harnesses, and helmets during the course. You are also welcome to bring your own equipment. We ask you to provide the clothing and personal items listed below. Items available for rent are marked with an asterisk *

 

Required Items:   

  • Base Layer Top (T-shirt/long sleeve) x1-2: poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Mid Layer (sweater, wool, fleece, etc.) x1*: poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Rain Jacket: 100% waterproof, Gore-Tex or similar fabric recommended.
  • Active Layer Bottoms (hiking pants or shorts): synthetic, sturdy, and quick drying.
  • Approach Shoes*: sturdy closed-toe shoes.
  • Climbing Shoes*
  • Small Backpack (approx. 25-35L)
  • Water Bottle: 1L minimum carry capacity.
  • Lunch and Snacks: granola bars, trail mix, sandwich, fruit, etc.
  • Sunscreen
  • Medications
  • Sun Hat
  • Sunglasses: with retainer strap such as Croakies so you don’t lose them. Good quality, with 100% UV protection recommended.

 

Optional Items:   

  • Long Sleeve Sun Shirt  
  • Climbing Helmet*
  • Climbing Harness*
  • Camera
  • Chalk Bag*

MSU provides any technical gear required. Snowshoes and poles with powder baskets will be provided on the morning of your trip. You are also welcome to bring your own equipment. We ask you to provide the clothing and personal items listed below. Items available for rent are marked with an asterisk *

 

Required Items:   

  • Base Layer Top: poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Mid Layer (sweater, wool, fleece, etc.)*: poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Rain Jacket: 100% waterproof, Gore-Tex or similar fabric recommended.
  • Active Layer Bottoms*: synthetic hiking pants or waterproof softshell pants.
  • Puffy Layer*: down or synthetic, hood recommended.
  • Wool Socks
  • Mittens or Gloves: preferably waterproof.
  • Warm Hat
  • Balaclava or Buff: to keep your face and ears warm.
  • Sunglasses
  • Hiking Boots*: we recommend a pair of sturdy, waterproof boots.
  • Backpack (approx. 10-20 liters)
  • Water Bottles or Water Bladder (Camelback style): 1L minimum carry capacity.
  • Lunch and Snacks: granola bars, trail mix, sandwich, fruit, etc.
  • Sunscreen
  • Medications

 

Optional Items:   

  • Watch
  • Poles*
  • Snowshoes*
  • Gaiters*
  • Camera  

 

**Wondering about how to pee and poop in the winter backcountry? Look through this website and ask your trip leader for additional information!

MSU provides any technical gear required. We will provide dry suits, rescue life jackets, neoprene gloves, and helmets during the course. You are also welcome to bring your own equipment. Please let your instructor know if you need to borrow any additional layers. We ask you to provide the clothing and personal items listed below. Items available for rent are marked with an asterisk *

 

Required Items:   

  • Base Layer Top (long sleeve): poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Mid Layer (fleece): poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Base Layer Bottoms (long underwear): poly-pro/synthetic, technical wool, or silk.
  • Puffy Layer (or additional warm mid layer) x1: down or synthetic.
  • Sunglasses: with retainer strap such as Croakies so you don’t lose them. good quality, with 100% UV protection recommended.
  • Wool Socks
  • Water Shoes: closed toe and secure (old running shoes work great!).
  • Water Bottles: 1L minimum carry capacity.
  • Lunch and Snacks: granola bars, trail mix, sandwich, fruit, etc.
  • Car Bag: to leave in the car with a warm change of clothes.
  • Sunscreen
  • Medications

 

Optional Items:   

  • Watch
  • Buff or Bandana
  • Rescue PFD*
  • Dry Suite*
  • Helmet*
  • Small Notebook and Pen or Pencil (we recommend Rite in the Rain notebooks)  

MSU provides any technical gear required. We ask you to provide the clothing and personal items listed below. Items available for rent are marked with an asterisk *

 

Required Items:   

  • Base Layer Top (T-shirt/long sleeve): poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Mid Layer (sweater, wool, fleece, etc.)*: poly-pro/synthetic or technical wool.
  • Rain Jacket: 100% waterproof, Gore-Tex or similar fabric recommended.
  • Active Layer Bottoms (hiking pants or shorts): synthetic, sturdy, and quick drying.
  • Waterproof Bottoms*: rain pants or snowpants depending on the season.
  • Hiking or Mountaineering Boots*: we recommend a pair of sturdy, waterproof boots.
  • Backpack (approx. 25-35 liters)
  • Water Bottles or Water Bladder (Camelback style): 2L minimum carry capacity.
  • Lunch and Snacks: granola bars, trail mix, sandwich, fruit, etc.
  • Headlamp*: with backup batteries.
  • Sunscreen
  • Medications
  • Sun Hator Warm Hat: season dependent.
  • Sunglasses: with retainer strap such as Croakies so you don’t lose them. Good quality, with 100% UV protection recommended.

 

Optional Items:   

  • Trekking Poles*
  • Gaiters*
  • Long Sleeve Sun Shirt  
  • Camera  
  • Buff or Bandana