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Fall Day Trip Gear List

The average September day on Mount Washington has a high temperature of just 47°F and a wind speed of 29mph. Thick, wet fog is common, and hurricane-force winds and freezing temperatures can occur during any month of the year.

You will need layers of warm clothing; we do get winter-like conditions in the fall! Cotton clothing of any sort is unsuitable for use on the mountain because of its tendency to absorb and hold moisture. Suggested materials are listed for each item:

  1. Wicking base layer: wool or synthetic tops and bottoms to pull moisture away from the skin. Example: Eastern Mountain Sports Techwick Midweight Crew and Techwick Midweight Tights.
  2. Wicking insulating layer: wool or synthetic tops and bottoms to insulate while pulling moisture away from the skin. Example: Eastern Mountain Sports Power Stretch Tops and Bottoms.
  3. Wicking hiking pants: synthetic pants that can be worn over your base layer or insulating layer. Example: Eastern Mountain Sports Camp Cargo Convertible Pants.
  4. Insulating top: midweight wool, synthetic or down jacket. Example: Eastern Mountain Sports Divergence Fleece Jacket.
  5. Rain jacket and rain pants: Durable, rugged, waterproof top and bottom to protect from rain and wind (lightweight plastic raingear and ponchos are inadequate). Example: Eastern Mountain Sports Deluge Rain Jacket and Pants.
  6. Hat: Wool or synthetic cap that covers your ears.
  7. Mittens or gloves: windproof, water-resistant or waterproof insulation for your hands.
  8. Glove liners: thin wool or synthetic gloves to use in lieu of insulated gloves in warmer weather.
  9. Sunglasses: sturdy sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection.
  10. Daypack: durable, water-resistant or waterproof backpack that's large enough to hold your layers, water bottle, and camera. Approximately 20-30 liters (1220-1830 cubic inches) recommended size.
  11. Water bottle or hydration pack: minimum 18 oz capacity.
  12. Sunblock (optional)
  13. Hiking poles, ski poles, or walking stick (optional)
  14. Camera and extra batteries (optional)

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