High School ExpeditiON: AUGUST 2026

 Late August in the Pioneers can swing forty degrees in a day: hot, sun-exposed afternoons, nights that dip toward freezing, and the real possibility of afternoon thunderstorms or a cold rain. The list below is built for that range. Synthetic layers matter more than any single item. Everything (except tent and sleeping bag) should fit in one duffel or backpack plus a daypack.

• Sleeping bag rated to 20°F or warmer-rated bag 
• Tent (may share with a classmate of the same gender) 
• Sleeping pad and pillow
• Towel
• Headband or “hankie” 
• Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots,  or trail shoes (no brand-new footwear)
• Rain jacket (true waterproof shell, not a windbreaker)
• Warm insulating layer — fleece or puffy jacket
• Warm hat and lightweight gloves
• Sun hat and sunglasses
• 2 pairs of long pants (at least one non-cotton), 1 pair of shorts
• 3–4 shirts, including at least one long-sleeve non-cotton layer
• 4 pairs of socks (wool or synthetic strongly preferred)
• Base layer / warm sleepwear for cold nights
• Two 1-liter+ water bottles and/or hydration packs
• Daypack large enough for layers, water, lunch, and journal
• Headlamp or small flashlight with fresh batteries or charged completely
• Personal toiletries (think small and the least amount of scent for bear safety, but preserving your good scent and sense!) and any medications in original containers — check in with Harder
• Field journal and two pencils (provided by BSCS if needed)
• Camp chair
• Plate, spork or fork & spoon, water bottle, cup/mug
• Personal drybag/dittybag for your personal garbage

• Camp shoes (flip flops, Crocs, or sneakers for around camp)
• Camera (simple, non-phone) or binoculars
• A book for quiet time
• Sunscreen and lip balm 
• Small stuff sack of personal snacks 
• Fishing gear- limit to a small bag and one rod
• Hiking poles

• Phones, smartwatches, earbuds, and other connected devices (Mr. H will have access to a satellite phone and any emergency communication devices. Thank you!) 
• Money, jewelry, and anything irreplaceable
• Aerosols and scented products beyond the basics — we are in bear country and manage all scents carefully
• Knives, guns, bows, or other “tools”, unless specifically requested by expedition staff
• Own snacks and meals unless you have been granted permission otherwise

*Please reach out 2 days before departure if you need assistance with any gear items you may not be able to track down. 

*Jeremy’s Cell- 406-581-3307  Mel’s Cell- 978-918-1035