- As of July 1, 2011, and new this year is required to have the Washington State Discover Pass displayed in your vehicle when visting any Washington State parks; the fine is $99! Buy it online, or pick up your pass at any sporting goods stores that sell fishing licenses or vehicle licences: Fred Meyer, Sports Authority, check out vendor locations near you. We got ours at the ACE Hardware store in North Bend, WA. The guy told Greg that he had sold 100 passes that morning, it was about 10 o’clock.
- Guide book or map – I usually carry a guidebook of some sort to help me along the way; a couple of my favorites:
And of course, anything from the Mountaineers is excellent.
3. Camelbak back pack – The hydration unit inside (a bladder) holds water for you, hands free. Thirsty? Just take a sip from the hose end coming out of the backpack. LOVE IT!
4. Food – My favorite hiking food is rollups. Torillas filled with sandwich meats, like ham & cheese, rolled up and wrapped in tin foil. Packable fruits like blueberries, cut strawberries. And chips, the salter the better; pretzels work too. I like to load up on salty items to stay hydrated.
5. Good boots or shoes; I prefer ones with hightops to support the ankles. I like smashing through the rocks and stepping in muddy areas and not have to worry about my feet getting wet.
6. We’re talking about day hikes during the summer, so a lightweight jacket of some sort is usually worn or carried. Sometimes it can be cold at the top, or even after lunch.
