Trek Clothing Guide

Pioneer clothing is required for all participants

Keep It Simple & Authentic

Pioneer dress helps create a unique environment that allows participants to focus on the meaning of Trek, rather than on how they look. Spending excess money and time on obtaining pioneer clothing is strongly discouraged.

Most, if not all, clothing items can be taken from existing wardrobes, local thrift stores, or from family members or friends. Many people wear the same clothing the entire Trek, just like the pioneers!

Put your name on everything with a permanent black marker. Because of weight and space limitations on the handcart, you are restricted to the items on the packing list.

Men's Pioneer Clothing

Basic clothing requirements for young men

Pants: lightweight cotton to prevent chafing, no denim or heavyweight material, no camo (1 - 2)

Shirts: lightweight, long sleeves, button front with or without a collar, no T-shirts, light colors (1 - 2)

Hat: Western style or straw sun hat, broad brim, no ball caps, beanies, or army hats (1)

Light Jacket: easily packable, waterproof if possible (1)

Suspenders (optional): clip on or button (1)

Bandana: cotton, lightweight (will be provided for you)

Women's Pioneer Clothing

Basic clothing requirements for young women

Skirts/Dresses: ¾ or mid-calf length (1 - 2)

Blouses: long-sleeves; button front; light colors (1 - 2)

Apron: deep pockets for carrying small items (1 - 2)

Bonnet or Straw Hat: pioneer style with broad brim, with a tie, no ball caps (1)

Bloomers: ankle length with elastic around ankle; made from old sheets or scrubs (1 - 2). NOTE: cotton is the coolest; nylon leggings are VERY hot, do not allow ventilation, and can cause chafing.

Feminine Hygiene Products: as preferred (enough for entire Trek)

Light Jacket: easily packable, waterproof if possible (1)

Bandana: cotton, lightweight (will be provided for you)

Shoes & Socks

Proper footwear is critical for a successful trek

Shoes: should be solid and not mesh, sturdy and well broken in, waterproof if possible (1 - 2)

Water shoes (optional for men): The men will be rescuing the women at the river crossing. Some like to bring water shoes to walk through the river, but it is not necessary.

Cotton outer socks and nylon inner socks: knee high preferred to protect and prevent bug bites and scratches from bushes and weeds (3 - 4 sets)

Important: Shoes Should Be Solid, Not Mesh

Mesh shoes allow dirt, dust, and debris to enter, causing blisters and discomfort. Choose solid leather or synthetic shoes that protect your feet from the elements.

General Guidelines

Important considerations when selecting trek clothing

Choose natural fabrics like cotton, linen, or wool when possible

Avoid synthetic materials that don't breathe well

Select earth tones and muted colors (browns, tans, grays, blues)

Ensure all clothing is modest and covers shoulders and knees

Break in shoes/boots BEFORE trek to prevent blisters

Layer clothing for temperature changes

Bring a second complete set of trek clothing

Where to Get Pioneer Clothing

Make Your Own: Many families sew their own trek clothing using simple patterns. This can be a meaningful preparation activity.

Borrow from Stake: Check with your ward or stake - many have clothing available to borrow from previous treks.

Purchase: Several online retailers specialize in pioneer trek clothing (White Elegance, Smith & Edwards, etc.).

Thrift Stores: Long skirts, suspenders, and other items can often be found at thrift stores for less money.

Critical: Break In Your Footwear!

Start NOW: Wear your trek shoes/boots for at least 2-3 weeks before trek. Walk several miles in them.

Prevent Blisters: New or poorly fitted footwear is the #1 cause of blisters and foot problems on trek.

Test with Socks: Break in your footwear while wearing the same sock combination you'll use on trek (nylon liner socks + cotton outer socks).

Don't Forget!

Remember to pack a second complete set of trek clothing in your 5-gallon bucket. See the full packing list for all other required items.

View Complete Packing List