Bring these ESSENTIALS and your experience will be so much more valuable:
- Comfortable hiking shoes/boots. Don't bring sandels or sneakers. Make sure you have a good set of shoes that you can walk for many hours in with a tough hiking sole. Your feet will be greatful by sunrise. (Don't forget comfortable hiking socks!)
- Water and snacks. Bring at least 2 litters of water and drink throughout the hike. Dates, nuts, fruit, and energy bars are great for late night snacks.
- Hiking poles. You can buy these in any hiking shop or online. They DO make a difference, believe me.
- Layers. While it may be warm when we start, around 4 AM in the desert can be COLD! I bring a wool base layer, long sleeve hiking shirt, and even a light jacket in my pack.
- HEADLAMP! You can't hike without. The best ones have a red light setting. Always point at ground and keep your distance from the hiker in front of you so as not to cast them in shadow. Check the batteries BEFORE the hike! (I just replaced mine.)