Wildcat Canyon packing checklist

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Check off what you already have. For anything you still need, there’s a product suggestion when we have a good match.

Trip-specific: permits and hazards

1. Closure checkIDNR: some trails could be closed during 2026 for a major trail improvement project. Check before you go.Need itHave it

   No product pick yet. Bring your own or check with the park.

   Source: Illinois DNR: Starved Rock State Park

2. Stairs and steep overlooksThe loop has 9 staircases. Wear shoes with good tread.Need itHave it

   No product pick yet. Bring your own or check with the park.

   Source: Illinois DNR: Starved Rock trail descriptions (PDF)

The Ten Essentials (NPS)

1. WaterAbout 1 L each for this short loop, more in summer heat.Need itHave it
   

   Nalgene Tritan Wide Mouth 32 oz

   $17.99 on Amazon

   About 1 L each for this short loop, more in summer heat.

   Buy on Amazon (opens in new tab)

   Source: NPS Yosemite: hiking safety (1 quart every 2 hours)

2. Food and extra foodPack snacks plus extra food in case the day runs long.Need itHave it

   No product pick yet. Bring your own or check with the park.

3. Navigation: offline map, map and compassTrails split often. Save the IDNR trail map.Need itHave it

   No product pick yet. Bring your own or check with the park.

4. HeadlampTrails close at sunset, and canyons get dark early.Need itHave it
   

   Petzl Tikka Headlamp

   $34.95 on Amazon

   Trails close at sunset, and canyons get dark early.

   Buy on Amazon (opens in new tab)
5. Sun protectionOverlooks are open to the sun.Need itHave it

   No product pick yet. Bring your own or check with the park.

6. Insulation and rain layerSpray and spring rain.Need itHave it
   

   FROGG TOGGS Ultra-lite2 Rain Jacket (men’s)

   $22.74 on Amazon

   Spray and spring rain.

   Buy on Amazon (opens in new tab)
7. First aid kitFor blisters, scrapes and sprains, the most common trail problems.Need itHave it
   

   Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .5

   $31.95 on Amazon

   For blisters, scrapes and sprains, the most common trail problems.

   Buy on Amazon (opens in new tab)
8. Fire starter and emergency shelterShort trail, but carry a lighter and a space blanket in cold months.Need itHave it

   No product pick yet. Bring your own or check with the park.

9. Knife or repair kitFor quick gear fixes, cutting tape or trimming a blister pad.Need itHave it

   No product pick yet. Bring your own or check with the park.

Prices and stock checked on Amazon on Oct 18, 2026, and may have changed.