Ice Axe

A general mountaineering ice axe. We recommend the following size as a general guideline to follow. When in doubt, a shorter ice axe is better than a longer axe. Heights 5'4” and under should use a 52 cm axe, 5'5'' to 6’0'' use a 59 cm axe, above 6'0'' use a 66 cm axe. Note that wrist leashes should be removed from your axe. Check out our write-up to learn more about different ice axes.

Accessory Cord

40 feet of 6mm accessory cord to be used for prussiking and other climbing rigging. If you plan to bring your own pre-tied prussiks, please contact the Gear Department ahead of time. You will need cord for more than just prussiks. Make sure the cord is soft, flexible and supple. Stiff and rigid cord will not work. To test this, hold the final 12-inch/30-cm piece of the cord in the air, with your hand below. If the cord stands up straight (stalagmite style) it will not work.

Crampons

General mountaineering crampons. We recommend modern steel 12-point crampons with anti-balling plates. Please do not bring 10-point, aluminum, or single-piece rigid crampons. If you have questions about the suitability of your crampons for your trip, call or email the Gear Department. Check out our write-up to learn more about how to fit your crampons.

Climbing Harness Plus Two Locking Carabiners

Your harness must fit over all of your clothing, feature gear loops, adjustable leg loops and waist belt, and must be able to fully separate at the legs . We strongly recommend newer models with a belay loop and which do not require "doubling back" your waist belt - older models are cumbersome. Bring two locking carabiners in addition to the harness, which will be used only with the harness. Check out our write-up to learn more.

Standard Carabiners

Four (4) non-locking, lightweight carabiners. Wiregates are recommended over standard gates.

Locking Carabiners

Two screw-lock carabiners, ideally with large openings for easy manipulation while wearing gloves. Must be rated for climbing.

Belay Device plus 1 Locking Carabiner

Modern tube-style belay device and 1 large, pear-shaped locking carabiner. Avoid super-specialized belay devices which cannot accept a wide variety of rope diameters. We recommend models like the Black Diamond Guide ATC or Petzl Reverso.

Avalanche Transceiver

457 kHz digital avalanche transceiver. Multi-antenna transceivers are strongly preferred over single-antenna transceivers. This item is required.

One (1) double-length (48 in or 120 cm) runner is required. Pre-sewn Dynex/Dyneema models are preferred over nylon models. Do not bring a self-tied sling.

Trekking Poles

Collapsible skiing/trekking poles with snow baskets. Three-section varieties are preferred.

Wool or Synthetic Socks

Three pairs of medium to heavy hiking socks. These must fit over your liner socks if you plan to wear liner socks.

Double Boots

Double boots designed for mountaineering. Plastic-shelled models are sufficient, but modern non-plastic boots are more comfortable and are highly recommended. Single boots of any kind (boots without a removable liner) will not be sufficient. If using a boot with a built-in gaiter, separate gaiters are not necessary. Please note: if renting boots, the rental price includes gaiters, which will either be built-in gaiters or separate gaiters, dependent on the rental boot model.

Gaiters

Full-sized waterproof gaiters that must fit snugly over your boots. Short trekking gaiters do not offer sufficient protection. If using a boot with a built-in gaiter, separate gaiters are not necessary.

Booties

Synthetic or down camp booties for comfortable wear around camp.

Snowshoes

Lightweight, ascension-focused snowshoes with climb bars and metal traction.

Short Underwear

Two to three pairs including the pair you are wearing on Day 1. Synthetic or wool fabrics only - no cotton! Bring comfortable athletic styles based on your needs and preferences (e.g., boxers, briefs, sports bras).

Baselayer Bottom

Non-cotton baselayer bottoms that should fit snugly without constriction. We recommend lighter weight baselayers rather than heavier fleece-type layers. Wool, wool blend, polyester, or other synthetic fabrics all work well. Be sure your baselayer pants are not constructed from cotton.

Long Sleeve Sun Shirt

One long-sleeved base layer top. This item must be constructed of a non-cotton material such as merino wool or polyester. Note that light-colored, hooded sun shirts are strongly recommended for sun protection, and are worn by guides throughout most climbs.

Second Baselayer Top

A second non-cotton baselayer top. Wool or synthetic fabrics are required. Short or long sleeve acceptable, though we recommend long sleeve.

Softshell Pants

Stretchy, comfortable, non-insulated softshell pants that should fit comfortably with or without your baselayer bottoms. Please note that "zip-off"-style trekking pants are too light to be considered softshell pants.

Hardshell Pants

Non-insulated, fully waterproof shell pants that must fit comfortably over your baselayer bottoms and softshell pants. Full-length separating size zippers are generally required; occasionally, 7/8th zippers (extending from the cuff of the pant to the upper hip) can suffice but are strongly advised against. Check out our write-up to learn more.

Softshell Jacket

This breathable but wind-and-weather resistant jacket is a key part of a mountaineering layering system. We recommend a hooded model. This layer must fit well over your midlayer top and baselayer top. Check out our write-up to learn more.

Midlayer Top

A midweight, form-fitting, lightweight fleece layer for use over baselayers. Hoods are optional but recommended. Grid fleeces generally provide the best warmth-to-weight ratio. Note that very light puffy jackets can also suffice as a midlayer.

Hardshell Jacket

A non-insulated, fully waterproof shell jacket with a hood. Must fit comfortably over your baselayer, midlayer, and softshell. Helmet-compatible hoods are required. Check out our write-up to learn more.

Light to Midweight Synthetic Insulated Jacket (Optional)

A light to midweight insulated jacket. Synthetic insulation is preferred for dealing with wet weather, but down fill can work with careful management. Models with a hood are useful but not required. Down sweaters or synthetic equivalents work well.

Insulated Down Parka

This jacket or parka should be heavily insulated with high-quality down fill. We recommend an overall parka weight between 1.5 and 2.5 pounds. For warmth, a hood is required. Down sweaters or light puffy jackets will not be sufficient. Check out our write-ups here and here to learn more about down fill and down weight.

Insulated Synthetic Pants

A synthetic insulated pant with full-length separating side zips. Ski pants are typically not appropriate for this layer.

Lightweight Liner Gloves

Very lightweight wool or synthetic liner gloves that offer a snug, comfortable fit. Lighter colors absorb less sunlight while still offering UV protection. Black or dark-color gloves are also acceptable.

Softshell Gloves

Midweight, lightly insulated gloves for use when mittens are too warm and liner gloves are not warm enough. Leather-palm construction is always ideal for the sake of durability. Check out our write-up to learn more.

Insulated Mittens

Waterproof shell mittens with insulating liners. We recommend that your liner gloves can fit inside the mitten system as well.

Climbing Helmet

A lightweight climbing-specific helmet. This must fit comfortably over your bare head, hat, and/or balaclava, and your headlamp must be able to strap securely to the outside of the helmet. Check out our write-up to learn more about helmets.

Buff

Two buffs are a must-have. The UV Buff is a versatile replacement for the bandana and serves a multitude of purposes. Check out our write-up to learn more.

Sun Hat

Any style of lightweight hat for shading the head will work well. Baseball caps and sombrero-style sun hats are the most common.

Wool/Synthetic Ski Hat

A non-cotton wool or synthetic hat that covers the head and ears comfortably.

Glacier Glasses

High-quality glacier glasses offering full coverage around both eyes and across the nose. Removable side-shields are not required provided eye coverage is sufficient. For individuals that wear prescription glasses we recommend reading this blog post for tips on eyewear. For guide techniques on how to reduce glacier glasses from fogging check out this post here.

Ski Goggles

High-quality goggles for sun and wind protection at altitude. The lens should offer visible light transmission (VLT) of no more than 30%. Those with light-sensitive eyes may wish to use a darker lens. Photochromic models are ideal for use in changing conditions. See here for more.

Nose Guard

Nose guards are optional, but can be useful for those with extra-sensitive noses in lieu of constant sunscreen application. Guides strongly recommend the Outeru face glove as a nose guard.

Small Climbing Pack (Optional)

A 35-40 liter capacity climbing pack for summit climbs from camp. This pack should be simple, light, and purpose-built for climbing. This pack is in addition to your Expedition Climbing Pack.

Expedition Climbing Pack

A 75-100 liter climbing pack designed with climber-specific features and an internal frame. The volume you choose depends on experience level packing and gear quality. If opting for a pack smaller than 100 liters, practice packing to be sure you can efficiently use a smaller sized pack.

Sleeping Bag

High-quality 0°F down sleeping bag for use in late May and June. Cold sleepers or those climbing in April and May need a -20°F down sleeping bag. Please contact us should you believe a -20°F bag is more appropriate in your circumstances.

Tent

A 4-season, storm-ready tent. Double-walled tents are required. All tents must arrive with full guylines and snow stakes (most tents do not come with snow stakes and often need to be purchased separately). The listed rental price is charged per person using the tent. Check out our write-up to learn more about different types of tents.

Foam Pad

This pad should be either 3/4 or body length. Cut pieces of closed cell foam or industrially-crafted pads are both acceptable.

Inflatable Sleeping Pad

A full-length, modern inflatable sleeping pad is recommended. Older-style three-quarter length pads have been superseded by ultralight full-length pads. We recommend bringing a valve repair/body patch kit.

Water Bottles

Bring two one-liter capacity hard-sided water bottles. Wide-mouth, BPA-free plastic bottles are ideal. Nalgene brand bottles are recommended. No water bag or bladder systems (they freeze or are hard to fill) and no metal bottles (they have a tendency to freeze).

Thermos

A stainless steel vacuum-sealed thermos with an air tight lid and thermal cup lid. We strongly recommended bringing a thermos for those who prefer hot water to help with hydration on cold mountain days. One-liter sizes are preferred, and avoid narrow-mouthed thermoses which can be challenging to fill.

Water Bottle Parkas

Bring two insulated water bottle parkas that fully cover your water bottle with closing lids. Thin “cozy” style neoprene sleeves do not provide enough insulation and are not recommended. We recommend the Forty Below Bottle Boot or the Outdoor Research Water Bottle Parka.

Lighters

Two small, light Bic-style lighters are recommended for starting your cook stove. Matches can fail in humid climates and leave waste behind.

Stove

Either a liquid fuel stove or IsoPro cartridge-burning stove can be used. Fuel for liquid-burning (white gas) stoves will be provided at no additional cost and picked up at basecamp. Those wishing to use IsoPro cartridge stoves will need to bring their own fuel. Keep in mind that because you cannot fly with fuel, you will need to purchase your IsoPro when you arrive in Anchorage, before departing for Talkeetna. Check out our instructional article and videos on selecting a stove!

Spoon

One durable hard plastic or anodized metal spoon. Longer spoon stems can be helpful for eating while wearing gloves.

Mug

One insulated outdoor-style mug with a removable lid. Your mug should retain heat well and be spill resistant. Models with 12-20 oz capacity generally work best.

Knife

Medium-sized. Keep it simple and light.

Bowl

A sturdy bowl with a sealable lid to keep items hot. We recommend a 16oz Nalgene container with screw top lid. Many of our guides then duct tape a cut foam pad around the container for insulation.

Fuel

Liquid fuel is included with the rental of a liquid stove system. For climbers bringing their own liquid stove system, please bring an empty fuel bottle + pump and Alpine Ascents will provide you with fuel as well.

Pee Bottle

Collapsible or hard-sided 1 liter Nalgene models can work well. If opting for a collapsible model, please pick a 1.5-2 liter model as it allows for more space while using in your sleeping bag. For longer expeditions and colder mountains (Everest, Vinson, Denali, etc..) we strongly recommend a hard-sided 1 liter Nalgene as the collapsible models tend to crack in extreme temperatures. Check out our write-up to learn more about pee bottles and funnels.

Pee Funnel (for Women)

Optional. Practice is critical for the use of this item. Check out our write-up to learn more about pee funnels and bottles.

Cooking Pots or System

A cook system sufficient for backcountry cooking. Many cooking systems are functional- practice makes perfect, whether using single pots or a more involved system including items such as a frying pan. Note that some stove systems integrate directly with a pot.

Compass (Optional)

A Northern Hemisphere compass with a sighting mirror and adjustable declination. Mechanical compasses are recommended over electronic compasses for wilderness navigation. This item is not required, but is useful in assessing wind direction, slope aspect, and for backcountry navigation.

Trash Compactor/Contractor Bags

Three heavy plastic garbage bags for use as waterproof pack/stuff sack liners. Trash compactor or contractor bags are made from a heavier plastic and stand up well to prolonged mountain use. Alternatively, a reusable waterproof pack liner can be used provided it completely fills the inside of your pack.

Camera

Optional. Small point-and-shoot cameras (including compact SLR's) are ideal & work well at altitude. Alternatively, many opt to use a smartphone camera. Due to weight & care in the mountain environment, large dSLR cameras are discouraged.

Solar Panel + Power Bank (Optional)

Small portable solar panel and power bank for charging personal items like a cell phone on longer trips when access to power is not available. Solar panels with 10-20 charging watts that weigh no more than 2.5lbs are handy, lightweight, and cost-effective. We recommend bringing a small lightweight power bank like the Goal Zero Flip 36 or Venture 35 to store the solar power, and charging your devices directly from this power bank. For more information please see our blog post.

Toiletry Bag

Include toilet paper (stored in a plastic bag), hand sanitizer, toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, wet wipes, and any personal medications or prescriptions. Choose a quantity appropriate for the length of your trip. Female climbers should bring an appropriate amount of feminine hygiene products for the duration of the trip (for international trips, these can be difficult to find last minute in-country).

Sunscreen

Two to four ounces of SPF 30+ sunscreen. Varieties with zinc-oxide are more protective! Two to four ounces per week is typically sufficient, but several small tubes can offer insurance against lost or exploded tubes. Sunscreen loses SPF rating over time; we strongly recommend brand-new sunscreen.

Lipscreen

Several tubes of SPF 30+ lipscreen. As with sunscreen, be sure your lipscreen is new.

Altimeter/Smart Watch (Optional)

Altimeter and Smart Watches are increasingly popular and a great way to track your trip in the field. Models with GPS tracking, altimeter, and activity mode options are most common in addition to having traditional watch features like an alarm clock. Smart watches can be a very helpful tool in training for your climb. For a long trip, we recommend bringing a power bank and charging cable into the field as GPS tracking requires a significant amount of a battery power. For more information on altimeters and smart watches please read our blog post.

Sled Duffel Bag

An approximately 150-liter expedition-ready duffel bag used to transport all gear on your sled during the trip. The duffel needs to be fully waterproof and durable. Choose a model like the North Face Base Camp duffel with specific sled tie-down points. This bag can also be used to travel with gear to and from your destination.

Small Personal First-Aid Kit

Basic medical supplies in a compact package. We recommend over-the-counter pain relievers, Moleskin, first-aid tape, Band-Aids, and anti-septic wipes or gel.

Hand Sanitizer

Many alcohol-based hand cleaners will work well. Bring a small amount appropriate to the trip duration.

Food

Bring the following snacks and lunches for your climb:

• Breakfast x 7 (300-600 calories each)
• Lunch and snacks x 8 (800-1600 calories each)
• Dinner x 7 (800-1200 calories each)
• Dessert x 7 (cookies, candy, chocolate, etc.)
• Energy food for summit or big travel days (Energy bars, energy chews, gels, candy bars, etc.)
• 2-5 hot drinks per day (instant coffee, hot chocolate, tea, apple cider)
• Desired condiments (salt, pepper, mustard, hot sauce, olive oil, sugar, etc.)

  Follow the link here for further recommendations.

Travel Clothes

Clean 'town' clothing is recommend for use traveling as well as pre-and-post trip. We recommend bringing a comfortable variety of clothing for peace of mind, including some t-shirts.

Small Duffel

This item can double as carry-on luggage for your flight, and is used to store any items you do not plan to take into the mountains. Think light and simple, with 40-50 liters of total capacity. Bring a travel lock for peace of mind.