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We closed out our summer with a trip to one of our favorite places to enjoy the great outdoors. We spent the last week of August visiting Acadia National Park in Mount Desert, Maine, where we hiked, biked, swam, sailed, and enjoyed the gorgeous scenery. In a short week-long trip, we fit in multiple day hikes, each just as beautiful as the last. Here’s a quick breakdown of the gear I brought along on each hike and how it all performed.
For my pack, I used the trusty Remote Equipment Alpha 31, which I choose for its versatility and comfort (you can read our full review on this pack). It easily accommodated my 3L Hydrapak Water Bladder, ensuring I had enough water for the entire day. As for snacks, we kept it simple with trail mix and peanut butter, Nutella, and banana sandwiches which are both quick to make and filling.
Safety is always a priority, so I carried my EDC trauma kit and first aid kit with all the basics, including a SAM Splint, just in case. I also had my Benchmade Contego knife, although this knife in particular is unfortunately discontinued, I would recommend checking out other Benchmade alternatives.
My survival kit stayed in my pack, complete with a SOL tarp, some stakes, and extra paracord for emergencies. It gave me peace of mind knowing I was prepared for anything, especially given the rugged terrain.
For those amazing views, I packed my Vortex binoculars. They were a great addition, allowing me to get a closer look at the surrounding mountaintops at the summit. It really added to the experience of taking in Acadia’s beautiful scenery.
Lastly, I brought along a light wool 1/4 zip for extra warmth. This was a lifesaver when we took a break at the summit. After sweating through the hike, I started to feel chilly from the wind, and that extra layer made all the difference.
All in all, the gear I took worked flawlessly, and Acadia never disappoints!
