Miami is famous for its beaches, Texas for its BBQs, and Colorado for its hiking. No visit to any of these states is complete without experiencing what they’re famous for.
The Centennial State is popular with hikers because of its stunning natural wonders and fantastic outdoor facilities. Over 6 million people visit Colorado’s national parks every year. There are countless more nature reserves people can come to explore in the state.
Hiking can be a fun, healthy, and exciting activity. But if you don’t come prepared with essential hiking gear, it can be a long and stressful day.
Luckily, you can find the Colorado hiking gear checklist down below!
The Right Backpack
There are endless bags on the market. If you choose the wrong one, it can dampen your spirits.
For a day hike, your pack should be between 30-40 liters. Anything smaller won’t have enough space for your supplies. Something bigger is only adding extra weight to your back.
No matter how long you plan to hike, it should be light, waterproof, and have padded shoulder straps. Otherwise, you’ll feel the pain of straps cutting into your arms after hours of walking.
A First Aid Kit
Safety should always be your priority on any adventure. Don’t underestimate the importance of a quality first aid kit. Even a small cut or graze can lead to infection if left untreated.
Below are the essentials for a first aid kit.
- Antiseptic wipes
- Roll bandages
- Gauze pads
- Tape
- Tweezers
- Painkillers
- Pocket knife
- Band-aids
- Mosquito repellent
- Any medication
There are also useful tools to keep in your kit, such as a torch, suncream, and chapstick.
Food and Water
The human body needs at least two liters of water daily. But that recommended dosage almost doubles when hiking in warmer conditions.
Hydration bladders hold enough water to get you through a hike. They also allow you to keep sipping on and hydrating yourself throughout the day.
The key to maintaining energy on a hike is food. Since you don’t have unlimited space in your bag, you need to find light and compact foods. Granola and energy bars are popular with every experienced hiker.
Sugary foods give you a small burst of energy during your hike, but avoid eating them before you set off. Instead, consume as much fiber and carbs as possible.
Navigation Tools
In an emergency, it’s always good to have a few navigation tools. If your phone battery dies, it can be hard to find where you started without a map of the area.
A map and compass will come to your rescue no matter where you are. It can also be a fun activity to leave your phone in your bag and explore the woodlands the old-fashioned way.
Suitable Clothing
The type of clothes you wear depends on the day and season of the year. So remember to research the weather during your upcoming trip.
Colorado’s hottest month is July. It has an average temperature of 75°F.
During this time, you need items to protect you from the sun, such as hats, bandanas, and sunglasses.
In the winter, temperatures plummet to around 45°F.
Many thin layers of clothes, hats, and gloves are all essential for this time of year.
No matter what time of the year, you must always have quality hiking shoes with plenty of grip. Waterproof clothing is also a must. Even in the summer, the weather in the mountains can change in a flash.
Bring the Essential Hiking Gear for Your Next Colorado Trip
Hiking in Colorado is a joy to behold any time during the year, but to get the most out of your upcoming trip, you must bring essential hiking gear.
So now you know what to pack! All that’s left is to plan your journey and search for a lodging accommodation nearby!
If you need help finding lodging that’s perfect for you, contact us today, and we’ll be happy to help!