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Living in Montana and exploring nearby Wyoming, we’re constantly blown away by the raw beauty surrounding us. From the jagged peaks of the Absaroka Range to the thermal wonders of Yellowstone and the quiet backcountry lakes near the Montana-Wyoming border—there’s no shortage of trails calling your name.
Over the years, our family has learned (sometimes the hard way!) which hiking gear actually holds up and keeps you safe in wild places like Yellowstone National Park, the Beartooths, and the Bridger-Teton Wilderness. Here’s our tried-and-true guide to the best hiking gear for comfort, performance, and backcountry safety.
🥾 Best Hiking Boots & Shoes
Top Pick: Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX Hiking Shoes
Lightweight, waterproof, and with great traction—ideal for Yellowstone’s varied terrain, from dusty geyser basins to rocky climbs.
Runner Up: Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Boots
Affordable, super comfy, and reliable on longer day hikes through Gallatin Canyon or Lamar Valley.
Mountain Tip: Break in your boots before heading into Yellowstone or the Wind River Range—blisters on day one are a fast trip to regret.
🎒 Best Daypacks for Day Hikes & Wildlife Watching
Top Pick: Osprey Talon 22 (Men) / Tempest 20 (Women)
Breathable, ergonomic, and hydration-bladder compatible. Perfect for long days in Grand Teton or the Lewis and Clark National Forest.
Bonus: They’re tough enough for rocky scrambles and still light enough for casual hikes like Mystic Falls or Jenny Lake Loop.
🥾 Hiking Poles Are a Game-Changer in Big Sky Country
Whether you’re trekking the rugged Beartooth Mountains or exploring the vast Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, hiking poles can significantly enhance your outdoor experience.
🧥 Layer Like a Local: Unpredictable Weather is Real
In the Rockies, the weather can (and will) change in an instant. We’ve hiked through sunshine, sleet, wind, and snow—all in the same day.
Base Layer: Smartwool Merino Tee (soft, moisture-wicking, and no stink)
Mid Layer: Fleece Pullover (breathable warmth without bulk)
Outer Shell: The North Face Rain Jacket (light, windproof, and waterproof)
Cold-Weather Shell: Essential when temps drop or snow rolls in, even in summer at higher elevations
Yellowstone Reminder: Even in July, it can snow at higher elevations like Mount Washburn or along the Bechler River Trail.
💧 Stay Hydrated & Drink Safely
Hydration Pick: HydraPak Shape-Shift Reservoir
Easy to clean, fits most packs, and keeps your water slosh-free.
Water Filter: Lormandy or LifeStraw Peak Series
Essential if you’re heading into backcountry zones in Yellowstone or the Shoshone National Forest. Don’t rely on clear water looking “clean”—even alpine lakes can carry bacteria.
🧭 Safety + Communication in the Wild
AllTrails App (Pro) – Download offline maps before entering no-service zones
Black Diamond Spot Headlamp – Don’t get caught hiking back in the dark without one
Starlink Mini – We recently added this to our emergency kit. It provides internet access in areas where phones fail, offering peace of mind when you’re deep in the backcountry. Also you can work while being in nature… shhhh 😉 Here’s How 👈 My setup.
Garmin inReach Mini 2 – Our go-to for two-way messaging, GPS tracking, and emergency SOS. It’s compact, durable, and reliable even deep in the wilderness. Ideal for longer treks or solo hikes.
🐻 Bear Country Must-Haves: Grizzlies Are Here
Whether you’re near Gardiner, the Lamar Valley, or deep in the Tetons—you’re in grizzly country. Be alert, prepared, and respectful.
Bear Spray (and know how to use it): We carry Counter Assault or UDAP. Always keep it within reach—not in your pack.
Optional Firearm: If you’re trained and legally permitted, many locals carry a sidearm when venturing into remote wilderness. It’s controversial, but some feel safer with both bear spray and a backup.
Group Up + Make Noise: Bears tend to avoid groups. We try to hike in groups of 3–4 and talk or sing when going through brush or blind curves.
🥜 Easy Trail Snacks That Don’t Melt
- Kate’s Real Food Bars (made in the region!)
- Honey Stinger Waffles – Lightweight and delicious
- Epic Jerky Bars – Protein and crunch in one bite
🏕️ Hiking with Kids or First-Timers? Bring These Too
- Deuter Kid Comfort Carrier – Great support, plus a sunshade
- Bug Spray + Mineral Sunscreen – Musts in areas like Yellowstone’s Hayden Valley
- Field Journal or Nature Bingo – Keeps kids engaged and off screens
Final Thoughts from Our Family to Yours
Whether you’re catching sunrise at Yellowstone Lake, hiking up Avalanche Peak, or just taking a peaceful forest trail near Bozeman or Jackson—good gear makes all the difference.
We’ve built our kit over the years, learning what works and what fails when you’re 10 miles from cell service with a storm rolling in. If you’re planning a trip to Montana, Wyoming, or Yellowstone this year, we hope this helps you gear up smart—and hike even smarter.
Happy trails and stay wild 🏔️🦬