Friends of the Columbia Gorge

View from Augspurger Mountain Trail. (photographer: Joe Urmos)

Friends of the Columbia Gorge recommends you carry the following 10+ essential items every time you are hiking in the Gorge. Weather changes quickly here and it can be very windy because of the dramatic landscape. The more prepared you are, the better the experience you’ll have on the trail.

Don't head out to the Gorge without these items:

1. Navigation - Printed hike description, compass, & map – we recommend the National Geographic Columbia River Gorge trails map
2. Insulation - Extra clothing including rain and wind gear because it’s the Gorge!
3. Nutrition - Extra food (don't forget electrolyte replacements)
4. First Aid Supplies
5. Illumination - Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
6. Fire - Matches and fire starter
7. Repair kit & tools - Knife, multipurpose tool, and duct tape
8. Sun protection - Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen
9. Hydration - Extra water, water filter or water purifying tablets
10. Whistle 
11. Emergency Shelter - Blanket or bivy
12. Trash bag - "Pack it in, pack it out"

Optional but recommended items include:

• Hiking poles
• Tecnu (poison oak wash)
• Wildflowers of the Columbia Gorge field guide
• Dog leash and waste bags if taking your four-legged hiking partner