I’m A Day Hiker…A Day Hiker…Yes I Am
(Photo: Adams Falls - Rocky Mountain National Park By BJ Baker)
A parade of gold-seekers once scrambled across high passes and created mountain trails for modern-day hikers. The gold camps, ghost towns and mining relics these prospectors left behind remain to intrigue hikers today. Alpine Lakes and waterfalls, wildflower meadows, jagged peaks piercing blue sky all await high country hikers in a beautiful Rocky Mountain setting. The altitude in this area soars from its 5,000 feet low point to over 14,000 feet — a difference of more than 7,000 feet. This elevation spread provides a variety of flower ecosystems hikers can enjoy on a single ascent.
Expect temperature swings while hiking. Be prepared for weather with wind/water resistant jacket, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle, high-energy snacks and adequate footwear. Carry a topographical map and compass.
Predicting the weather
Weather in the mountains can change without warning and a lack of knowledge can be deadly. Here’s some mountain weather lore that might someday save a backcountry adventurer’s life:
When birds ruffle and pick their feathers or huddle together, look out for a change for the worse in the weather.
When dogs sniff the air frequently, look for a change in the weather.
Low clouds moving swiftly indicate coolness, rain or snow.
TRAIL ETIQUETTE
Proper hiking trail and bike path etiquette is not only useful for being considerate to others, but also for your own personal safety. Both the bike path and hiking trails have several standard rules that should always be adhered to:
Always ride/walk on the right side of the paved path or trail, following single file in a group, leaving the left side open for oncoming or passing cyclists/hikers/runners/you get the picture.
Always announce yourself when passing others so as not to startle them, causing them to swerve into you. For example: “Passing on your left…”
For the safety of all bike path users, cyclists should not exceed 20 MPH. If you need to bike faster than this, please bike on the roadways… which involves a whole different set of rules.
Keep your pets leashed… not all people are as fond of your pet as you are. Chasing wildlife is also against the law and can get you a hefty fine.
Please don’t litter! If you bring it with you, take It home with you, and then recycle it. Keep our town and our state beautiful.
The United States Forest Service office in throughout the west have information on hiking trails. Topographical maps are available at many of the book and outdoor stores in the area. For more information it’s recommended you pick up one of the books on hiking in the area.
Order or download a Free Topgraphical Map
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