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Mount Rainier Wilderness permit

Rainier Wilderness Gear Checklist

What to carry on Rainier Wilderness, and why. 1 item is written into the permit rules and 8 more are worth the pack space.

9Total Items
1Required
8To bring

What to bring on Rainier Wilderness

Specific to this permit, not a generic camping list. One item is written into the permit rules, and every one of those carries the rule it comes from.

  • Required

    Blue bags if any part of your trip is in an alpine zone

    Permit rule: “Climbers in alpine zones are required to use the Blue Bag system and pack waste out”

  • Bring

    A stove that burns liquefied or bottled fuel

    the parkwide fire ban has been in effect since June 26, 2026

  • Bring

    Rain and wind protection sized for a mountain that makes its own weather

  • Bring

    Water treatment

  • Bring

    A trowel for cathole use in cross-country zones

    six to eight inches deep, four to six across, and pack the paper out

  • Bring

    A bear canister for subalpine areas without tall trees

    the park recommends but does not require one

  • Bring

    Traction and an ice axe for early-season snow on any high camp

  • Bring

    Trekking poles

  • Bring

    A tent that handles sustained rain

5 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. Mount Rainier National Park'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 Rainier Wilderness

💡 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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