Hikes

Rocky Mountain National Park contains over 350 miles of hiking trails, ranging from short, easy walks to extremely strenuous and challenging hikes that require climbing skills. The terrain ranges from paved paths to shady packed earth to rocky hillsides, and from level ground to unbelievably steep trails. Hiking difficulty can also vary according to the time of year -- the higher elevations usually have snow until at least mid-July. Considering the park's reputation for rough terrain, it's a pleasant surprise to discover numerous easy and moderately rated trails that can be completed in a half-day or less. Also, many park trails, such as Longs Peak, can be done either as day hikes or as overnight backpacking trips.

In planning your hikes, take into consideration the difference in elevation between where you live and where you plan to hike and camp. Almost all the trails in Rocky Mountain National Park begin above 8,000 feet and go up from there. High-altitude sickness can put a damper on your vacation. If you live near sea level, we recommend that you spend at least 1 night at 7,000 to 8,000 feet before hitting the trail. This will allow your body to begin adjusting to the environmental differences, particularly the decrease in oxygen. It can take several weeks to become fully acclimated. Hikers, especially those who plan to take on the longer and more strenuous trails, are strongly advised to discuss their plans with park rangers before setting out.

A number of trails in the adjacent national forests also provide good views of the park, and are well worth hiking on their own merits.

Backpacking for Beginners

In general, backpacking requires more preparation than many other sports -- including minute attention to detail -- and the longer the trip, the more planning is needed. Everything you need for food, clothing, and shelter must be carried with you. It's important to be thorough, and it's also important to be conscientious when it comes to weight. First and foremost, the most important gear is what's on your back and on your feet -- good boots and a sturdy pack are necessities. You'll also need a warm sleeping bag and sleeping pad.

Packs generally come in two types: internal and external frames. Opinions vary over which is best: External frame packs are slightly cheaper, and internal frame packs are better for long distances or trails that twist and turn. Internal frame packs distribute weight more evenly and cinch tight across your hips, making them more comfortable for long hauls. Try on as many packs as possible. Look for wide shoulder straps, lumbar support, and a wide hip belt. Make sure it feels good and ask lots of questions. If your questions are not answered with enough detail to make you feel sure and secure, move on. An uncomfortable or poorly fitting pack is a potential nightmare on a backcountry trip.

Now for the fun stuff -- packing everything you'll need to subsist inside this bag you've bought. One easy method: Pull everything you could possibly want out, then return most of it from whence it came. You really don't need three pairs of pants or 10 T-shirts.

As for food, a mix of dried foods (pastas, lentils, beans, dried meats, and fruit), crackers, cereal, trail mix (nuts, raisins, and M&Ms), granola bars, envelopes of pre-made soups, and plastic jars of peanut butter and jelly work great. One guy we've heard of hiked the Appalachian Trail with entire loaves of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, all pre-made and repacked into the bread bag. It worked. And don't forget about water. There is plenty of water in the high country in the park, but you'll need to treat it to prevent Giardia. Don't take chances: This little bug is one painful parasite to ingest.