If your purpose on this trip is to suffer and be uncomfortable then pay no attention to what follows, and please don't come on the trip.

Conditions for your consideration: The average highs in May in the area are in the 50s and the lows in the 30s (Farenheit). Averages being what they are, this means we could see a blizzard. Fairly strong winds are to be expected. This is the dryest time of the year in Alaska, but Alaska is a wet place. Wind chill and hypothermia are considerations. Some of the terrain we will traverse will be quite rough.

Necessary gear for every individual (remember - this all has to fit in the boat):

• a 15 degree or lower sleeping bag that weighs less than 5 lbs.
• sleeping pad.
• some type of long underwear (top and bottom) other than cotton (wool, silk, synthetic work well).
• at least one warm sweater or fleece jacket (no cotton, which means most sweatshirts won't work).
• waterproof jacket and pants.
• two pair of gloves (no cotton or leather, wool probably the best).
• two hats, ones that will remain on your head in high winds.
• thicker wool or blend socks (not cotton).
• hiking boots.
• sunglasses - the glare off the snow can be intense.
• water bottle or the like (e.g. camelback).
• toiletries (toothpaste, aspirin, allergy meds, bandaids, deoderant).
• water proof notebook and writing implement.
• a good sized day pack.

Tents: The most critical thing is that these be compact, lightweight, and able to stand up to a strong wind. You might want to also remember you are putting these up and taking them down everyday. We will cram as many people in each tent as possible.

Side-zipper duffle bags are easier to transport, stow, and get things in and out of, and are recommended.

Other group gear: GPS units, maps, light weight tarps, group first aid kit, group radios, cooking gear, readings.