I enjoy hiking and had the pleasure to go out several times last year (one trip included a week in the Tetons). It is relatively inexpensive and a great way to get in shape. My favorite part is getting to the top of a 10,000 or 12,000 foot mountain and then doing what I call "jumping off the cliff". I like to run and "glissade" down the mountain in a hopping fashion. Its almost like you are skiing but you have no skis or snow. Its a rush and one that involves agility, stamina, leg strength, and a good pair of shoes. You also have to be slightly nuts.

Backpacking is an awesome way to get in shape and shed not only pounds but stress. You may not be ready to "jump off the cliff" but anyone can grab a backback and head for the mountains (or hills in some cases). Summer is almost upon us and if you haven't had the chance to go backpacking then try something new! Here is a simple list of things you might need to get going and to consider:   

The Basics

• Backpack (3,000 to 5,000 cubic inches)                       WEIGHT                                   
• Sleeping bag (rated to 20 to 50F)                               WEIGHT                                   
• Sleeping pad                                                           WEIGHT                                   
• Two-person tent/tarp                                                 WEIGHT                                   
• TOTAL WEIGHT                                                      TOTAL                                      
• YOUR WEIGHT                                                       WEIGHT                                   

Pack % of your weight  (divide total weight by your weight)              (ideal weight 20-30%)                    

Eating and Drinking

• 2 one-liter water bottles
• Water purification (filter, iodine, or bleach)
• Stove and fuel
• Wind screen (to protect the stove flame, constructed out of aluminum foil)
• Pot/pan with lid
• Waterproof matches and lighter
• Cup or mug
• Lightweight bowl and spoon
• Multi-tool or utility knife

Clothing

• Trail-running shoes or hiking boots (broken in and waterproofed)
• Sandals and fleece socks or lightweight camp shoes
• Wool socks
• Sock liners*
• Synthetic long-underwear bottoms and tops
• Synthetic shorts or convertible pants
• Underwear
• Synthetic/wicking t-shirt
• Poncho
• Wool or fleece jacket (or vest if warmer)
• Wool or fleece hat*
• Wool/fleece gloves or mittens*
• Bandanna

Accessories

• Map and compass
• Headlamp
• Toilet paper in Ziploc bag
• Plastic potty trowel
• Extra Ziploc/trash bags
• Lip balm
• Sunscreen
• Hand sanitizer
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• First-aid kit (Band-Aids/bandages, Aspirin, antiseptic wipes, poison ivy treatment such as CORTAID® Treatment Kit, moleskin, tweezers)
• Pack rain cover or garbage bag
• Bear-bagging cord

Optional Items

• Sun/rain hat
• Sunglasses
• Camera, film
• Ground cloth
• Duct tape
• Watch
• Whistle

Special Considerations

• Contact lens wearers: bring solution and back-up glasses

This list is just to get you going. Pick and choose wisely but always remember to pack light. At 11,000 feet you will be glad you did! Once you get out you will be shocked