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Colchuck Zone permit

Colchuck Gear Checklist

What to carry on Colchuck, and why. 8 more are worth the pack space.

8Total Items
8To bring

What to bring on Colchuck

Specific to this permit, not a generic camping list.

  • Bring

    A printed and signed permit

    USFS is explicit that an unsigned permit on a phone is not valid

  • Bring

    Water filter for the lakes

  • Bring

    A stove

    no campfires above 5,000 feet or within half a mile of any lake

  • Bring

    Rain gear and warm layers; May, June, September and October are shoulder seasons where winter conditions are normal

  • Bring

    Sturdy boots for primitive, steep, rocky trail

  • Bring

    Trekking poles for the descent

  • Bring

    Microspikes early in the season

    snow lingers in the basin well past the May 15 season start

  • Bring

    A day pack so you can leave camp and hike the Core Zone unloaded

8 people can go on one permit. Split this list between them so nobody carries two stoves.

Plan a trip here

General backcountry gear

General backcountry kit. The Enchantments's own rules for this permit are above.

🎒
Recommended
Wild Ideas

Bearikade Weekender

Ultralight carbon fiber bear canister. IGBC certified.

1 lb 15 ozultralightcarbon-fiber
$325
🎒
Recommended
Katadyn

BeFree 1L

Ultralight collapsible filter system.

2 ozultralightfast-flow
$44.95
🎒
Recommended
BearVault

BV500 Bear Vault

The most popular bear canister for Sierra backpacking. Fits 7 days of food.

2 lbs 9 oz7-day capacityapproved
$89.95
🎒
Recommended
Black Diamond

Distance Carbon Z

Lightweight folding carbon poles.

1 lb 1 ozcarbonfolding
$169.95
🎒
Recommended
Sawyer

Sawyer Squeeze

The most popular water filter for backpacking.

3 ozpopularreliable
$37.95

Gear Tips for Colchuck

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Weigh your pack before you go. A lighter pack makes for a happier hike.
  • •Rent expensive gear if you are trying a new activity for the first time.
  • •Test all new gear at home before hitting the trail.
  • •Some items are required seasonally. Check current regulations.

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