Mt Toubkal Winter Equipment List: Your Ultimate Guide

Are you ready to embark on a thrilling winter trekking adventure up Mt. Toubkal from October - end of April?

It's an experience like no other, with snowy landscapes and breathtaking vistas. To ensure your journey is safe and enjoyable, let's dive into the essential equipment you'll need to conquer this icy challenge.

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Day Pack: Your Trusty Companion

Your daypack is your faithful companion throughout the trek. Aim for a 20-30 liter size to carry your daily essentials. Water, suncream, waterproofs, and more can easily fit, but remember, bigger isn't always better. Overpacking can make your trek more cumbersome. Check out this article for our favorite daypacks.

Step with Confidence: Winter Hiking Boots

A sturdy pair of 4-season winter hiking boots is non-negotiable. Consider the renowned Meindl Bhutan or the Mammut Trovats. These boots offer excellent grip and support for Mt. Toubkal's wintery terrain. B1 boots are recommended, which can accommodate C1 crampons for extra grip. Get tips on crampons from Dave's guide!

Conquer Icy Terrain: Crampons Are a Must

Crampons are your winter grip saviors. Although available for hire, owning a reliable pair is wise. Familiarize yourself beforehand to avoid surprises. Steep snowy and icy paths demand extra traction—essential for a secure journey.

Pack Smart: 60L Duffel Bag or large day pack

Use a small duffel bag or extra day pack to pack your things for the trek itself. Mules will transport it, so choose wisely. Pack essentials only; your travel bag stays safe at Imlil Lodge. Adventure awaits!

Stay Warm: Thermal Base Layers

Invest in 2-3 thermal base layers. Opt for breathable fabrics like merino wool or bamboo. Say goodbye to cotton and hello to quick-drying comfort. A short-sleeve base layer and two long-sleeve options should suffice.

Layer Up: The Midlayer Fleece

As temperatures drop, layer up with a midlayer fleece. Brands like Rab, Craghoppers, Columbia, and North Face offer quality options for added insulation.

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Bottoms Up: Walking Trousers

Pack two pairs of walking trousers. One winter-lined pair for chilly summits and a lighter one for the Refuge approach. Brands vary; from Mammut to budget-friendly Peter Storm, choose wisely based on material and tech.

Embrace the Chill: Down Jacket Love

A 700-fill down jacket, like Mountain Equipment’s Lightline, keeps you cozy. Winter trekking demands warmth, and a reliable down jacket is your secret weapon. It's a firm favourite amongst us Yetis at HQ.

Stay Dry: Waterproof Jacket Ready

Carry a lightweight waterproof jacket in your daypack. Rain is unlikely but having one ready is smart. Consider the Rab Firewall waterproof for a reliable choice.

Happy Hands: Gloves or Mittens

Keep your hands warm with Montane prism gloves/mitts and liners. For extra warmth, try the Titan Gore-Tex Snowboard/Ski Mitts or Vulcan Heated gloves.

I used the Vulcan Heated cycling/Ski Gloves when I did Mt Toubkal, they are great gloves alone but the cool thing about these gloves is they use infrared technology to heat up the gloves too!

You can check out my full review of the kit I tried from Vulcan Sportswear HERE. The kit would be ideal for a trip like this, remember, as an EverTrek customer you get 15% off, the code is in your members area!

Hydration Matters: Be Prepared

Water bladders can freeze, so bring 2-3 water bottles (2-3 liters total). Keep them warm in your daypack. Replenish at the refuge with bottled water available for purchase.

Dreamy Sleep: 3/4 Season Sleeping Bag

Carry a 3/4 season sleeping bag. If you're prone to cold, a sleeping bag liner adds coziness. Sleep well and wake up refreshed!

Necessities: Crucial Toiletries

Toilet paper, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, earplugs, diarrhea kit, and hydration tablets are essential. The refuge's basic facilities demand self-sufficiency.

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Odds and Ends: Complete the Checklist

  • 3-4 pairs of walking socks
  • Head torch with spare batteries
  • Power bank for device charging
  • Warm hat for extra warmth
  • Neck buff for added comfort
  • Toiletries for personal care
  • Small, quick-drying towel
  • Sunglasses to shield your eyes
  • Flip flops or casual shoes for camp
  • Entertainment like cards for refuge downtime
  • Dry bags to protect your gear
  • Zip lock bag for waste disposal
  • Lip balm for chapped lips

Equipment for Hire: Your Options

  • Sleeping Bag: 5 Euro per day
  • Down Jacket: 10 Euro per day
  • Crampons: 5 Euro per day
  • Ice Axe: 5 Euro per day
  • Helmet: Free
  • Duffel Bag: 5 Euro per day

Pay the rental fee directly to our Morocco team upon arrival. Let them know your requirements in advance.

Prepare for a breathtaking journey up Mt. Toubkal this winter. With the right equipment, you'll conquer the challenge while embracing the stunning beauty of the landscape. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy every moment!

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Written By

Rosie Long

Yeti Hapus