Here's some stuff you might
need/want on your hike. Here's a list
of equipment I use. Be sure to read the Disclaimer about the
information on this site.
Remember, the mountain doesn't care.
Need
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Want?
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Water (bring
plenty) and/or filter
Sunglasses/Glacier
glasses
Lip balm
& sun screen/block
Map(s)
Matches/firestarter
Toilet paper
Compass
Whistle
First aid kit
& moleskin
Flashlight
Windbreaker,
poncho, raingear
Knife
Something to
put it all in
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Wide-brimmed
hat
Plastic bags
(for trash)
Guidebook(s)
Camera (&
extra film)
Binoculars
Lunch
Extra food;
high energy snacks
Sketch pad
Journal/notepad/pen/pencil
Bug repellent
Hiking/trekking
pole(s)
Extra
clothing (& layers)
Extra pair of
socks
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- Pets aren't allowed
on RMNP trails.
- Stay on trails
(shortcutting causes erosion).
- Don't feed or
follow/stalk/harass wildlife (it's against the
law).
- Camp only in designated
areas (you'll probably need a reservation). A
permit is required for all overnight
stays in the backcountry.
- Open fires are often
not permitted (signs will say "Stoves
Only").
- Don't pick
wildflowers (also against the law).
- Drink plenty of water
-- the altitude, low
humidity, and winds can quickly dehydrate you.
- Don't drink untested
or untreated water (from lakes or streams) or you
could get giardia (not fun).
- Don't exceed your
abilities. Unless you're experienced and properly
equipped, stay off snow fields, glaciers,
waterfalls, streams, and boulder/rock fields.
- Lightning is
dangerous if you're hiking at high altitudes. Get
off high spots immediately if there's
lightning activity.
- Mountain Safety Tips
from the Larimer
County Search and Rescue (LCSAR) site.
- Many trails are two
miles or more above sea level -- spend at least
one night at (Estes Park, 7522 ft) altitude
before tackling moderate or strenuous hikes and
make sure you're fit (these hikes are not for you
if you have heart or respiratory problems).
- Even acclimated and
well-conditioned hikers sometimes experience
altitude sickness. If symptoms of altitude
sickness persist (dizziness, headache, shortness
of breath, nausea, fatigue, nasal congestion,
rapid heartbeat, or appetite loss), go down to
lower elevation immediately and seek
medical attention.
- For more high
altitude info see:
For more info, see the Mike's
Hikes Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) or
the RMNP FAQ.
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