Tips for Hiking in Colorado
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Tips for Beginner Colorado Hikers
Beginner Hiking Essentials and Tips in 2024
Hiking in Colorado in the Rocky Mountains at elevations over 7,500’ to conquering 14,000’ summits is no joke — breathing and physical exertion hit different here.
If you’re visiting from lower elevation, you need to give yourself time to acclimate to Colorado elevation. And everyone’s bodies approaches it differently.
For example, Kansas City, Missouri sits only 909 feet above sea level, Denver is a mile high (5,280 feet), and when you descend upon Aspen, Colorado, you are already at 8,000 feet.
Colorado hikers should always be ready for change in weather and altitude
Then, let’s say it’s your first time as a Colorado hiker to Crater Lake under the famous Maroon Bells. When you reach the Maroon Lake Welcome Station, you’re standing at over 9,500 feet and you haven’t even begun your hike. The hike to Crater Lake takes you to 10,075 feet. Phew! Your effective oxygen just decreased from 20% in Missouri to only 15% in Aspen, Colorado — that’s a significant difference!
This is why the following tips are super imperative and will directly affect how much you and your crew enjoy your time hiking Colorado trails.
We’ve witnessed visiting friends experience altitude sickness at tree line (11,500 feet) and higher.
Often altitude sickness can be avoided with the proper preventative measures. These tips for hiking in Colorado are an effort to insure that beginners hiking here relish their adventure from start to finish.
There are lots of year-round options for hiking Colorado trails. The best months for summer hiking are June until late September, when your treks tend to be snow-free and all of the scenic mountain highways are open for driving.
Winter hiking is also fun if you dress properly and pack spikes and poles. Hiking in Spring and Fall (gold rush in Colorado!) is certainly fantastic too, especially when you plan well.
Adhere to the following tips for hiking Colorado before you hop on any trail and HAVE FUN.
Let’s Talk.
Pick our brains about hiking trails in Colorado. Book a one hour call with us and gather knowledgable advice and tips for trails we’ve hikes.
Fuel up before your hiking Colorado trails and carry snacks
Eat Well
Make sure you have a healthy, filling dinner the night before a big hike. Tacos or fajitas for example, or other dinners packed with protein and carbohydrates are great ideas for the night before.
Also fuel up the morning before you hit the trail. You will burn more calories than you realize while hiking, especially because you are climbing up in elevation.
Wear Layers
Weather can change in a minute while hiking in Colorado. Also, the higher you climb, the cooler the air temperature. In the Colorado summer, we like to hike in athletic shorts and a T-shirt, but we pack a fleece pullover or a light jacket in our daypack as well.
In fact, it’s never a bad idea to carry a waterproof jacket that doubles as a windbreaker, pants, beanie, and gloves — especially when hiking at higher altitudes.
Regarding outdoor and hiking gear, buying used, upcycled gear is easier on the wallet for the entire family.
Here is our favorite hiking gear for 2024 that keep us going longer and stronger while hiking in Colorado:
We love the Osprey Sirrus Hiking Daypack for women, or the Stratos version for men, for carrying water, layers, and snacks on Colorado day hikes
Lightweight, versatile Hiking Poles built for a full day’s send on the trail — hike longer and stronger
2L or 3L Water Reservoir — This affordable reservoir is easy to fill
Patagonia Torrentshell - a true waterproof rain jacket and fantastic layering piece
Nano Puff Jacket - our favorite for 3 seasons in Colorado
Sun hoodie - a must have in Colorado
Med kit
If you’re looking to buy new gear, first check out our Gear Reviews page.
Check the Weather
Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so it’s never a bad idea to throw in a rain jacket, even if the forecast doesn’t show rain. Weather can change in a flash for Colorado hikers. Keep your eyes on storm clouds coming from the west. Double check the weather right before your hike and be prepared to turn around early if need be.
All Colorado hikers should have a hiking plan, which includes carrying maps and having a Plan B.
Have a Plan and Be Flexible
One of the best beginner hiking tips: have a plan and be willing to flex. Use an app like the Hiking Project or All Trails to map out and follow your hike.
First rule of hiking: Don’t get lost.
Access the hike before you get to your trailhead — most likely the app will work during the hike even if you’re out of cell range.
Better yet, be old-fashioned and print out a map. Carry a copy of your ID in your daypack. Leave a second copy with your estimated return time on the seat of your car.
Carry a compass and know how to use it.
Always tell someone — not in your hiking party — where you are hiking and when you plan to return. Send them a copy of your trail map and tell them when to notify authorities if you haven’t returned by a certain time.
Your best plan is to begin your hike in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms. Plan to be back below treeline by noon; Colorado treeline is between 11,000 and 12,000 feet. Remember: it’s okay if you don’t finish the hike or go as far as you hoped.
Good hiking boots or hiking shoes are a top essential for all Colorado hikers
Wear the Right Shoes
Your feet and ankles can take a beating on the trail. Broken-in hiking boots, tennis shoes, or trail shoes are your best bet. Not kidding, some folks hit the trail in flip flops or Vans, and no doubt they’re in a world of hurt by the end of the hike.
The right hiking boots or trail shoes help prevent injury to toes and ankles and keep you going steady on the trail. Break in your feet with new shoes two weeks leading up to your hike to avoid blisters.
Never wear cotton socks while hiking.
Always wear wool, wool blend or synthetic socks that wick away moisture from your feet.
Always pack an extra pair of socks in your backpack in case you need dry ones in the middle of your hike.
RELATED: How to Choose Between Hiking Shoes, Boots, or Trail Runners
Hydrate!
One of the most important Colorado first time hiking tips, the night before and the day of your hike, you should be drinking water like it’s going out of style.
Each person in your hiking group should plan on carrying 1 Liter of water for short hikes, 2 Liters for moderate hikes, and 3 Liters for longer, harder hikes.
You know you’re drinking enough water when your urine is pale yellow in color. If it is dark yellow or leaning towards brown in color, you need to drink more water.
Invest in an inexpensive water reservoir that slides into your day pack. I usually err on the side of carrying too much water.
We’ve heard horror stories of people not taking enough water or snacks. These folks barely make it back down the trail due to dehydration and lack of energy.
Beginner hiking essentials include a proper day pack and a way to carry a lot of water.
Wear the Right Daypack
When it comes to hiking backpacks, daypacks are the smallest and the sweetest of the backpack family and are perfect for half day and full day hikes.
Choose a daypack that works best for you and the hikes you’re taking. In 2024, we’re still partial to Osprey Sirrus Hiking Daypack for women, or the Stratos version for men, for carrying water, layers, and snacks on Colorado hiking trails.
Don’t break your back with a heavy backpack. A stress-free day on mountains trails starts with an expertly packed daypack.
Acclimatize to Colorado Altitude
Hiking in Colorado is challenging in many ways, and the elevation and strong sunshine will take a toll if you’re not careful.
If you’re coming to the Rocky Mountains from lower elevation, give yourself a day or two before you tackle longer, harder hikes. Start your time off with an easy going hike to see how you feel.
Give yourself time to rest here and there on longer Colorado trails and drink lots of water.
Pay attention to what your body is telling you and tell your hiking buddies if you’re not feeling well.
Colorado Hiking for Beginners 101: Know the signs of altitude sickness and how to help prevent worsening symptoms.
Know the Signs of Altitude Sickness
Truthfully, every person fairs differently in altitude.
Look out for beginning signs of altitude sickness: headache, feeling and being sick, dizziness, tiredness, loss of appetite, and shortness of breath.
There is no shame in turning around or asking for help. Carry canned oxygen just in case if you’re coming from sea level. If anything, it may give you piece of mind.
If you start feeling sick, there is a good chance you’re dehydrated. Sit in the shade if you can and try drinking more water before popping ibuprofen to ward off a headache. Ibuprofen will only cover up the issue; water consumption may take care of it.
Take a break on Colorado hiking trails for a snack and a break before you climb higher
Pack Snacks
Your blood will be pumping and you will burn more calories than you realize while hiking in the mountains in the summer sun. This is not a walk around the neighborhood. Pack snacks like beef jerky, trail mix, apples, oranges, granola bar, and throw in a sandwich as well for longer hikes.
A picnic mid-hike by a lake, a stream, or at the top of the trail with a view is always a hit.
Wear Sunscreen
The sun is intense in Colorado and will fry you to a crisp in 20 minutes if you’re not careful. No matter which state you’re hiking in, always apply sunscreen BEFORE you start your hike. Don’t forget your lips and ears too. While you might not feel it at first, sun exposure can really drain you and potentially lead you to heat exhaustion, making the end of your hike miserable.
Sunglasses and hats are beginner hiking essentials
Wear Hats and Sunglasses
Always a good idea to carry a hat and wear sunglasses in Colorado - did we tell you the sun is intense?
Carry a day pack with everything mentioned above.
Carry a First Aid Kit
Buy one or create your own first aid kit.
Consider adding moleskin (for developing blisters), bandages and band-aids of various sizes, tweezers, gauze roll, antiseptic towelettes, antibiotic cream, multi-use tool, and ibuprofen to a pouch in your day pack just in case.
Colorado hikers should know trail etiquette
Hiking Etiquette 101
What is proper hiking etiquette? And who has the right of way on a hiking trail?
Hikers who are descending, or coming down the trail, step aside and give space to hikers who are climbing, or coming up the trail.
It makes sense that those climbing up are working hard and don’t want to break their pace. Let those ascending the mountain keep moving unless they indicate they are thankful for a break.
Hikers should yield to horses and mules. Slowly and calmly step off to the downhill side of a trail. If you approach from behind, calmly announce your presence and intentions. Horses and mules can frighten easily, so avoid sudden movements or loud noises.
Bicyclists should yield to hikers* and horses or other pack stock. Come to a full stop and step to the side to give the right of way. Be mindful of the plants or animals that are near the trail if you must step off the trail.
Bikers: when you're going downhill, please yield to those going uphill. This is a courtesy to uphill hikers, since it takes much more energy to go uphill than down.
Although mountain bikers are technically supposed to yield to hikers, this is not always the easiest for them and it's better to be safe than right. Keep reading…
Beginner hikers should know what to do when they meet bikers on the trail
More about Hikers vs. Bikers
Bikers are generally expected to yield to hikers on the trail, since mountain bikes are considered more maneuverable than hikers’ legs.
BUT, because mountain bikers are often moving at a much faster speed than hikers, it’s usually easier for hikers to yield the right of way—especially if a mountain biker is huffing and puffing up a tough incline.
However, a mountain biker should never expect a hiker to yield.
Which brings us to our next point: hikers need to be aware of your surroundings on shared trails.
Wise and thoughtful mountain bikers will call out or ring a bell as they come down steep slopes or blind switchbacks, and will always let you know how many more bikers are following them in their pack.
Having hiked and biked on the same trails, we know we can all share the trail thoughtfully and considerately.
Be Aware of Wildlife and the Wilderness
Most likely, you won’t have a negative wildlife encounter. But keep in mind you are stepping into natural habitats of black bears, moose and mountain lions.
It is both unsafe (and illegal) to approach wildlife. Keep your distance and give them plenty of space. At the trailhead, read and heed any wildlife notices you see posted there.
Carry bear deterrent spray just in case and know how to use it as a last resort.
Go by this RULE OF THUMB: If you see wildlife out on Colorado hiking trails, hold your thumb out in front of you — if you can’t cover the entire animal with your thumb, you are too close. Move away slowly and give the animal space until they choose to move on.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife offers fabulous tips for what to do when you see a bear on the trail in Colorado.
Colorado hikers should know what to do if you see a bear.
Understand that bears will usually smell or hear you and leave the area long before you see them. Keep talking on the trail to let them know you are there.
Avoid surprising a bear:
Be alert at all times, and leave your headphones at home. Be extra cautious at dawn and dusk, when the wind is in your face, visibility is limited or you’re walking by a noisy stream. A firm clap or quick shout warns bears that humans are in the area.
Keep dogs leashed; exploring dogs can surprise a bear. Your dog could be injured, or come running back to you with an irritated bear on its heels.
In late summer and fall, bears need to forage up to 20 hours a day, so be extra alert on trails that go through berry patches, oak brush and other natural food sources, or avoid them altogether.
Read signs posted at trailheads.
Keep children between adults, and teach them what to do if they see a bear. Don’t let them run ahead or fall behind out of sight.
Double bag food, and never leave any trash or leftovers behind. Finding treats teaches bears to associate trails with food.
Never approach bears or offer food. If you’re lucky enough to see a bear, watch from a safe distance and enjoy this very special experience. If your presence causes the bear to look up or change its behavior in any way, you are too close.
Leave No Trace
This is simple: EVERYTHING you pack in, you must pack out. Bring a couple of small baggies for orange peels, empty wrappers, toilet paper, etc.
Do not poop above treeline because it will live there forever. Dig a 6” hole, poop then cover it with a rock. Or poop in a bag and pack it out. Here’s how to make a hiking poop kit. More on Going to the Bathroom on a Hike down below.
Stay on the trail. No shortcuts please. Leave the hiking trail better than you found it. Take pictures of wildflowers, but please don’t pick them so others may enjoy them too.
LEAVE NO TRACE SEVEN PRINCIPLES*
1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
Grab our 75 full page (downloadable PDF) Ultimate Guide to Colorado Camping, where you’ll check off everything you need to know for unplugging our part of the Rocky Mountains.
This comprehensive guide unveils how to find and book the best places for Colorado camping, essential camping gear, favorite camping meal recipes, what to do if you see a bear, how to set up camp, and so much more!
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
6. Respect Wildlife
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors
*© Leave No Trace: www.LNT.org
Hiking with kids in Colorado is fun, especially when you cover beginner hiking essentials with them too!
Hiking with Kids
Kids are often beginner hikers so, go at their pace and allow extra time to enjoy scenery on the hike.
Kids love to splash in streams and climb boulders along the way. Hiking is meant to be fun! So know your kids’ limits, and remember gummy bears and a promise to take them for an ice cream treat are great motivators on the trail too.
PRO TIP: Kids like hiking even more when you go with friends. We’ve learned our kids and teens complaints on the trail drop to basically zilch when we hop on a trail with another family. This tip is especially a game-changer on longer, challenging hikes.
Check out more tips for hiking with kids here.
Hiking with Dogs
Colorado seems to have a special place in heart for dogs. They’re often welcome in breweries and elsewhere.
Always check first to be sure dogs are allowed on the trail. Ones heading to reservoirs often don’t allow dogs. But many other Colorado trails do.
Bring lots of water and snacks for them too. Bring a baggie to pack out their poop. Please don’t leave it on the trail, thinking you’ll pick it up later. Simply tie it on the outside of your backpack to carry it out.
Hiking in winter has extra tips to consider
Hiking in Winter
Hiking in Winter is peaceful and super rewarding with the right gear like spikes, trekking poles, gaiters, beanie, gloves, and extra layers.
Realize many trailheads become inaccessible in the winter, so check before you go.
There could also be a serious avalanche risk depending on the area, so be sure to understand the essential winter hiking tips for Colorado.
Bring Your Camera
For most of us, this is easy: just bring your smart phone fully charged and ready to go.
You’ll obviously be snapping lots of pictures because hiking Colorado trails are breath-taking at nearly every turn.
Turn your phone on low battery to save juice. Bring an extra phone charger pack just in case.
Going to the Bathroom on a Hike
When you gotta go, you gotta go. Please keep these beginner hiking tips in mind the next time you need to go #1 or #2 on the trail:
It's important that you pee 200 feet away from water sources, trails and campsites to avoid impacting the natural environment or risk spreading illness to fellow outdoor adventurers.
Move at least 70 steps off the trail.
Bring hand sanitizer or wet wipes — pack used ones out in your little trash baggie!
And most importantly, for going number two, carry a Wag Bag!
Why Carry a Wag Bag
In Colorado, as more people explore the great outdoors, we are less and less fans of digging a BIFF (bathroom in forest floor) for those number two bathroom moments on the trail and at primitive campsites without vault toilets.
We are big fans of the WAG BAG on the trail and we love these affordable Double Doodie Waste Bags.
What is a Wag Bag? It is a plastic bag kit used to carry human poop out of backcountry wilderness areas where you can’t find a proper toilet. WAG is an acronym for Waste Aggregation and Gelling.
Our essential hiking tips help make sure you’ll have a blast hiking Colorado trails
Final Hiking Tips for Beginners
When you reach the peak or the top of the trail: Bring a snack or two for your summit views. It’s easy to check off the hike and head back to your car. Stop, take pictures, look around and be proud of yourself for the views you earned. Snack and replenish for the journey down the mountain.
Which Daypack is Right For You?
What else Colorado Hikers should know:
Fuel up before you hike. If you’re camping, these easy camping meals to get the job done.
Going on your first hiking trip? These daypacks work as hard as you do.
Hiking alone? Not our personal favorite, but we know others who love hiking alone when they plan well.
Fabulous Hikes in Colorado
Hiking to Maroon Bells - How to See These Beauts
Million Dollar Highway and Ouray Hikes
Glenwood Canyon Hikes and Glenwood Springs Hot Springs
Camping and Hiking in the Great Sand Dunes
Hiking in Colorado National Monument: The Secret Desert Gem of Western Colorado
