It all starts with Breakfast.
Before I head out, I will blend my Kyoku breakfast shake with oat milk and a shot of espresso to get me going. The shake will give me long-lasting energy to get through my hike without needing to prepare a full meal.
Hydration is everything
I’ve run out of food on these long hikes, which is not ideal, but I’ll survive. I’m not sure I will make it when I run out of hydration.
For this reason, I’m going with a bigger hydration pack that can carry
I’ll use the USWE Airborne 15 on my hike because even though the forecast doesn’t call for rain, I know I can fit a rain jacket and some warm clothes along with my snacks.
The Airborne 15 is a 15L pack with a 3L hydration blatter, which is plenty of hydration for an all-day adventure. I get super hot, but the ventilation on this pack is excellent.
I’ll typically put 3 to 4 scoops of Skratch in the pack, a bit more diluted than I would have during a regular workout, but delivers enough electrolytes to keep me going.
If you haven’t tried it, I’ve also started using the ERW Hydration that comes in Mango and Berry, and it is winning me over with a great flavor and lower sugar.
For energy & snacks
Maple? Yes Please! I’m a big fan of the Endurance Tap Caffeinated Gels. – I take this when I get to the parking lot to get a little extra in me before I start my hike. I find the maple syrup of Endurance Tap easy on the stomach, and I can feel the energy boost after 15 to 20 minutes.
Maybe I’m a bit salty and a bit sweet? Taos Bakes Cosmo Nuts fulfills my saltier side in between the sweeter snacks. These nuts are delicious; my favorite flavor is the Cilantro Lime Pistachios.
I’m gluten-free and don’t eat red meat, and turkey jerky is always necessary on hikes. Think Jerky has a slight kick but with a semi-sweet base while being safe for me to eat with my dietary restrictions.
I grew up with my dad making pans of rice Krispie treats, so Skratch Crispy Rice Cakes brought me back home. They aren’t as sweet as homemade treats but satisfy my sweet tooth on the hike while keeping me topped up and gluten-free.
Finally, the sun at 12K feet is brutal. I pack the small Kinesys 1oz Sunscreen spray. It isn’t sticky and gooey like other sunscreen and is easy to apply even after I’m sweaty. The tiny 1oz spray bottle seems last forever.
Happy labor Day Weekend
DRG