Please remember that weather in NW Montana during all seasons can change quickly from warm and sunny to freezing at any time of the year.  Be sure you have appropriate gear.  Check your course information sheet for specific gear requirements in addition to those listed below.

Essentials for all Field Courses

• day pack with plastic bag liner or cover
• water bottle (2 quart minimum)
• appropriate footwear (hiking shoes or boots)
• warm jacket with hood
• extra change of warm, dry clothes (long sleeve shirt and pants)
• rain gear or wind gear (pants and jacket)
• sack lunch and lots of high energy snacks
• field notebook and pencil (waterproof paper or contained in a plastic bag)

Additional Suggested Items

• basic first-aid kit, including moleskin
• binoculars or portable spotting scope
• ski poles or walking sticks (if you like to use them for hiking)
• waterproof matches or a lighter
• toilet paper & plastic bag in which to pack it out
• sunhat, sunscreen & sun glasses
• insect repellent
• compact emergency blanket and whistle
• field guides
• camera

If you stay at Field Camp or Big Creek or Overnight Camp

• all gear listed above
• flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
• warm sleeping bag (pillow optional)
• towel and personal toiletry items
• battery operated alarm clock (alarm clocks are provided at field camp cabins)
• extra shoes to wear after course (sandals)
• food as indicated on course information sheet
• therma-rest or foam pad (for camping only)

Additional Essentials for Winter, Fall and Spring

• warm hat and mittens with liners or gloves
• insulated winter boots and several pairs of dry, wool or polypropylene socks
• gaiters
• heavy wool or fleece pants, shirt and sweater
• polypropylene long underwear (top and bottom) NO COTTON
• snow pants