If you enjoy the great outdoors, Rocky Mountain National Park might just have everything you’re looking for in your next adventure. From amazing hiking trails to unbelievable fishing, a Rocky Mountain vacation would be an experience of a lifetime.
However, hiking in Colorado can prove dangerous if you’re inexperienced or unprepared. As such, if you plan on traversing the Rocky Mountain trails, you’ll need to do your homework and invest in the right gear for hiking.
We want to help you prepare. Keep reading for some common Rocky Mountain hiking mistakes and how to avoid them.
Not Bringing Enough Food and Water
First, whether you’re going on a day hike or planning on pitching a tent for some overnight camping, you need to pack enough food and water for your trip. We recommend bringing more food and water than you think you need, just in case.
If you get slowed down, lost, or decide to take a detour, you must have enough food and water to sustain your energy. Getting dehydrated or running out of energy on the trail could prove disastrous.
Not Preparing for the Weather
Rocky Mountain hiking can be somewhat unpredictable regarding weather patterns. It can be bright and sunny in one minute and pouring down rain the next.
As such, it’s important to check the weather report before you take off on the Rocky Mountain trails. Just as importantly, bring extra rain gear and warm clothes. It’s better to have these items and not need them than need them and not have them.
Not Knowing How to Navigate the Trails
Next, understand that hiking in a new location can be dangerous if you don’t know how to navigate the trails. If you’re planning on going out for an adventure, be sure to stick to the trails and bring a map. If you’re still worried about getting lost, hire a guide or invest in a GPS system.
Not Thinking About Wildlife Safety
While encounters are rare, Colorado is home to some dangerous wildlife. A pleasant Rocky Mountain hiking trip can quickly go awry if you run into a bear, moose, or mountain lion without being prepared.
It’s highly recommended to bring bear spray. More importantly, you need to educate yourself on what to do if you come into contact with one of these animals.
Not Packing a First Aid Kit
Finally, while you’re packing for your Rocky Mountain vacation, be sure to include a first aid kit. This should include bandages, snake bite kits, splints, and anything else that might help you up on the trail. While major accidents will call for professional medical assistance, a first aid kit could help you get down from the trail where you can then call for help.
Ready to Enjoy Some Rocky Mountain Hiking?
This article was not created to dissuade you from a Rocky Mountain hiking adventure. We just want to make sure you stay safe so you can enjoy your vacation to its fullest.
For more Rocky Mountain information or adventure ideas, you can find what you’re looking for on our site. And if you’re ready to book your trip, take a look at our lakeside lodging options. We would love to be a part of your outdoor vacation!