So there I was on Denali, May 2025, sitting pretty at Camp 14 after a perfect seven-day itinerary. And then Mother Nature decided we needed a little humility lesson. Two days of weather delay turned into eight, and with our food dwindling and the only weather window being the one to get the heck off the mountain, we made the gut wrenching call to turn around. Lesson learned: Denali is a great teacher with a tough grading curve.

Now, everyone knows the obvious gear to bring: technical clothing, high-altitude boots, ice axes, crampons, and of course, sunscreen. But let’s talk about the five not-so-obvious things you didn’t know you needed for Denali. Trust me, they’re game-changers.

                                             

1. The Seek Outside Goshawk 6300 Backpack

Before I dive into the nitty-gritty of this pack, let me confess: I have a bit of a backpack addiction. As I’m writing this, I’ve got 13 backpacks hanging in my gear room. I’ve also given away just as many over the years to friends, family, and the occasional grateful porter. I might have a problem! But hey, I’ve learned what works. And trust me, on Denali, the Seek Outside Goshawk 6300 is the pack that won’t let you down. With about 103 liters of space, it's surprisingly roomy and reliable when you need to carry everything but the kitchen sink. Plus, it has an external frame that won’t give up on you, and a waist belt that actually stays on your hips instead of sliding down and creating misery. You’ll need every inch of that space for your Denali haul, and trust me, this pack is like a loyal friend that just wants to carry all your stuff without complaining.

2. 100% Barrier Sun Protection (Or Sunscreen That Won’t Quit)

Let’s talk about staying sun-safe on a mountain that basically puts you on a giant reflective glacier. Sure, you can go with sunscreen, and if you do, I recommend Blue Lizard Sport Mineral SPF 50. This stuff is so tenacious that it laughs at showers. Bring twice as much as you think you need and apply it like you’re frosting a cake—no skimping.

   But even better, I’m all for full barrier protection. I basically turn into a sun-proof ninja with the Fractel L-TESSELLATE Legionnaire Cap, the Path Projects Pyrenees Hoodie, the OuterU faceGlove FLEX, and a spandex neck gaiter. Last year I had a wool buff that got all stretched out, so this year it’s spandex. I will also bring a fleece neck gaiter and the OuterU faceGlove GO for when it gets really cold. Thumb loops on your base layer are great because you don’t want your sleeves riding up and exposing your wrists. And don’t forget a hat that stays put—nothing’s funnier than chasing a runaway hat in the wind!

 3. A Semi-Rectangular Sleeping Bag (Because Mummy Bags Are   a Tight Squeeze)

When it comes to sleeping on Denali, warmth is key, but so is a bit of space. Sure, mummy bags are warmer, but they can get a little claustrophobic when you’re trying to stuff in your boot liners, water bottles, and electronics so they don’t freeze overnight. That’s why I recommend a semi-rectangular sleeping bag. I’m bringing the Western Mountaineering Bristlecone RZ, which is rated to -10 degrees. Now, a -20 or even -40 degree bag is recommended for Denali, but I sleep very warm and I’ve never been cold in this bag. Plus, the extra space lets me keep my gear inside with me without feeling like I’m in a sardine can.

4. A Layering Glove System (And a Pair of Leather Gloves)

When it comes to your hands, layering is the name of the game. You’ll want a good glove liner that can fit inside a thicker glove, and eventually some expedition-weight mittens. But here's the secret: bring a pair of leather gloves for all the digging and setup work. Those lightweight glove liners can get destroyed quickly when you're handling ropes or setting up tents. A tough pair of leather gloves will save your liners and keep everything in good shape. And if it gets chilly, you can slip those liners right inside the leather gloves. This year on Denali, I'll be bringing the Black Diamond Fleece Liner, the Outdoor Research Direct Route II Gloves, the Black Diamond Guide Gloves, and the Mountain Hardwear Absolute Zero GORE-TEX Mitts. Another handy tip: if your base layer has thumb loops, you can loop them over your glove liners so when you pull your hands out of your bigger gloves, the liners stay put and your skin never has to meet the freezing air.

5. 8000m Boots (Because Why Not Go Big?)

If you’re eyeing Denali, chances are you might be dreaming of the Himalayas someday. So go ahead and invest in those 8000-meter boots now and save your toes some grief. Last year I took the La Sportiva G2 Evos, and while they did the job, my toes got a bit colder than I liked. This year, I’m stepping up to the La Sportiva Olympus Mons with Intuition Liners for that extra warmth. Just make sure the shells fit the liners and give yourself plenty of time to break them in—think 100 hours of hiking. It’s a bit of a commitment, but your feet will thank you, and you’ll stay blister-free and warm.

In conclusion, protect your skin from the sun while keeping your hands and feet warm. Choose the Goshawk 6300 so the mountain is the challenge, not the fit of your pack. When your gear works, you’re free to focus on the scenery.

                     

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