Hiking in the Rockies

Hiking can be a pleasant experience that allows you to take in nature from a different viewpoint and also explore. Hiking in the Rocky Mountain national park is one of the best experiences you can get! However, when you are hiking in the Rockies it is important that you always make safety a priority. It is fine to get swept away by the amazing scenery around you, but you also have to be a bit cautious and careful. You need to plan out your hike and take the necessary precautions to ensure that you return safely.

What Factors Should You Consider?

There are a variety of factors that come into play when you consider your safety when hiking in the Rockies. Not only is weather a main concern, but you also have to be aware of dangerous wildlife and even unstable rocks near the edge of cliffs. Having an enjoyable hike should always be the ultimate goal, but this is only possible if you consider all that can go wrong while you are on your hiking trail. You need to be prepared for whatever comes your way.

Gear
Makes sure all your gear is in perfect condition. Check that a few weeks before your trip is due. In that case you still have enough time to replace your boots (and walk them in), get a new backpack or tent. Find lots of advice, reviews and the best hiking boots for men and women, backpacks, sleeping bags and tents on hikingvalley.com and backpacker.com.

Check the Forecast

The first thing that you should check before you plan your hike in the Rockies is the weather. You need to know what the forecast is predicting. If possible, you should try to coordinate your hike for a day when the weather will cooperate and be agreeable. You should always be prepared for temperatures to become cooler as you work your way up to higher elevations. It is best to dress in layers, so that you can easily add and take off garments as needed.

Tell Someone About Your Hike

It is also a good idea to let a friend or family member know about your hike in the Rockies. You should plan to share with them your itinerary for your hike an estimate of the time that you will return. This means that if you do not contact your friend or family member within a reasonable time of your estimated return, they can get ahold of emergency services to notify them. You want someone to know where you are when you decide to hike the Rockies. This is a safety precaution that is very reasonable. It is also a good idea to always hike with at least one other person. Hiking alone can be very dangerous and is not recommended, especially if you are just starting out.

Start Early

It is also suggested that you begin your hike as early in the day as possible. This will give you more daylight and allow you to make it back before dark. You don’t have to be in a rush when you are hiking, because you want to be able to enjoy the scenic views that are all around the Rockies. If you pace yourself during your hike, you will be sure to have enough energy for the last leg. Hiking is about endurance, so you need to be prepared to push yourself and overcome whatever obstacles get in your way during your hike. 

Dogs

When you're hiking with your dog, please read our other article about hiking with dogs. You should think about some important facts beforehand!