Here is a concise list of the Sonoran Desert hiking essentials for you. In November of 2022, I went on a 3-day backpacking trip through the Superstition Wilderness (part of the Sonoran Desert). It was my first time spending that much time in a desert and I already want to go again. I highly recommend taking a trip out there on your next outdoor adventure. Although many of the supplies I packed were typical for any backpacking trip, some were more unique to the desert environment.
This post contains two lists of Sonoran Desert hiking essentials – one for day hikes and another for a 3-day backpacking trip. You should consider adjusting the types and quantities of each item to meet your needs, the difficulty of the hike, and the weather.
Everything you’ll need for a day hike in the desert:
Packing for a day hike is a lot different than for a backpacking trip. You will be carrying a lot less and can opt for a day pack rather than something bulkier. Everything listed here includes a link to the brands I use and enjoy every time I adventure outdoors.
Sun protection
Sunscreen – Sunscreen is a Sonoran Desert hiking essential, no doubt. Be sure to apply sunscreen prior to the start of your hike, and reapply every hour or so.
Hat – You will need a hat to shield your face (and neck) from the desert sun. Personally, I like to take my hat off occasionally to feel the breeze in my hair, but only for a few minutes at a time. Be careful, because you can get burned with less than 10 minutes of exposure if the UV Index reading is high enough.
Sunglasses – They’re great for sun protection, and you look cool with them on. I still struggle to find sunglasses that work for me. If you wear glasses every day as I do, you either need to buy transition lenses, wear contacts, or find a clip-on lens for your everyday frames.
Lip Balm – Your lips can get sunburned, too! Plus, it’s dry out there.
walking gear
Hiking Shoes – Please don’t settle for your everyday kicks. The Sonoran Desert trails can be rough and uneven, and there are many loose rocks on the path. Make sure that your hiking shoes or boots provide stability and support when the trail gets rough. You especially want to protect your ankles. While some hikers prefer boots, others prefer a nice hiking shoe. Honestly – to each their own. No style of shoe reigns supreme in the desert. However, my favorite hiking boots are lightweight, waterproof, and high-traction. I could go on forever about the Ultra Raptor IIs – they are amazing. They’ve taken me up steep inclines without any fear of slipping, and through freezing water without a drop getting on me.
Trekking Poles – Although trekking poles are optional, I recommend bringing at least one. If you have any doubt about your ability to maneuver up difficult portions of the hike, trekking poles will reduce the strain on your legs and increase your stability. They are notably useful for easing the force on your knees while hiking as well. They can also provide a slight workout for your arms and abdominal muscles (look up Nordic walking poles).
in your pack
Water – Of course. Hydration should be your top priority anywhere, but certainly in the desert. Make sure to be drinking frequently as well. Bring at least 1 liter (33oz) per hour you expect to be hiking. Remember – the more you drink, the less weight you’ll be carrying.
Everyday Essentials – This includes your cell phone, a trail map (digital or printed), your ID and wallet, and personal medications.
Snacks – Even if you’re only packing for a couple of hours, you should pack some snacks. Hiking takes energy, and there’s always the chance that your hike may take longer than you planned. Bring a few protein bars at least (but not the kind that melts easily). It would also be smart to pack electrolyte drops. You can add some to your water beforehand or during the hike if you start sweating more than expected.
First-Aid Kit – You can keep it simple, but a first-aid kit is always important to have on the trail.
Pocket Knife/Multi-Tool – Again, it’s better to be prepared than to not have a knife when you need it. For example, you may just need to cut a loose thread or trim a hangnail. The handiness of a multi-tool is invaluable no matter how long the hike is.
3-Day Backpacking Checklist:
These supplies will altogether weigh somewhere between 25 and 40 pounds. I hiked 4-7 miles (6.5-11km) each day and camped/refilled water each night. Keep in mind that the trip was in November, so your packing list for the springtime or summertime will differ slightly for each season.
Everything on this list WITH LINKS attached are Sonoran Desert hiking essentials that I personally used on this trip and loved. Above all, I would recommend the backpack, sleeping bag liner, insulated jacket and headlamp linked below to anyone and everyone planning to camp out in the desert.
Basics
- First Aid Kit
- Backpacking Pack (65-75L)
- Pack Rain Cover
- Personal Bathroom Kit
- Prescription Medications
- Sunblock and Lip Balm
- Toiletries
- Trowel
- Food and Snacks
Location-Based Recommendations
- Trekking Poles
- Bandana/Buff
- Gaiters (Low)
- Lightweight Hiking Chair
- Sun Hat
- Sunglasses
- Sleeping Bag Liner (this Sea to Summit liner was LIFE-SAVING for me)
Clothing (based on November weather)
- Base Layer Tops and Bottoms (linked are my fav leggings)
- Fleece/Wool Gloves
- Fleece/Wool Hat
- Hiking Boots
- Hiking Pants
- Hiking Socks
- Insulated Jacket/Vest
- Long Sleeve Shirts
- Rain Jacket (this jacket is a great deal – and it has armpit zips!!)
- Rain Pants
- Underwear
- Socks
Extra/Optional Gear
- Camera + Accessories
- Towel
- Casual Camp Shoes
- Ear Plugs
- Energy Snacks/Drink Mixes
- Hiking Shorts
- Reading/Writing Materials
- Binoculars
- Multitool
For more details on camping out in the Sonoran Desert, click here.
