How To Prepare for High-Altitude Adventures in the Rockies
Hiking in the Rockies is exciting, but high-altitude adventures need special preparation. The air is thinner, the weather changes fast, and trails can be tricky. Learn how to stay safe, pack smart, and get used to the altitude to enjoy the best hiking trails in the Rocky Mountains!
What To Expect When Hiking in the Rocky Mountains
Being at a high altitude, with unpredictable weather, and rugged terrain, you’ll need to carefully prepare for a safe and enjoyable adventure.
Understanding the Challenges of High-Altitude Hiking
As Rocky Mountain National Park has an elevation that goes up to about 14,300 feet, hiking some of its toughest trails is not an easy task. If you’re not used to hiking at that height, the lack of oxygen can affect your breathing to the point where doing the simplest task becomes a struggle. Another challenge for the Rockies would be its seasonal patterns. Mountain weather can vary heavily, so it’s best to know it before you start your hike.
Why the Rockies Are a Hiker’s Paradise
With more than 265,000 acres of land and more than 300 miles of trails, the Rockies are a hiker’s paradise for viewing some stunning scenery. One of the mountain range’s highlights is the Continental Divide, also known as the Great Divide. It’s a sought-after spot if you’re wanting to see meadowy valley views, dramatic summit landscapes, and pristine alpine lakes.
How To Prepare for a Hike in the Rockies
It’s important to get used to the high altitude before hiking in the Rocky Mountains and pack the right gear to stay safe and enjoy the adventure.
Acclimating to High Altitude
Altitude sickness happens when your body doesn’t have time to adjust to lower oxygen at a high altitude. Acclimating can easily prevent this! This is a slow process where you gradually ascend. The general guideline is that once you are above 3000 meters, you should increase your sleeping altitude by no more than 300 meters each day and take a rest day every three days or so. Also, remember to be patient and not to overdo it, and make sure you eat and drink well.
Packing Essentials for a Rocky Mountain Hike
Packing for the mountains can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time and not something you’re used to in your everyday life. Here are some ideas of essential items to bring with you when going for a hike:
- Layered clothing
- Hiking boots
- Backpack
- Navigation tools
- Water
- High-energy snacks
Best Hiking Trails in the Rocky Mountains
The Rocky Mountains have some of the best hiking trails you could experience, whether it’s a simple and safe hike you’re going for or a more challenging trek you desire. Check out some of these suggested trails to enjoy the Rockies at your preferred skill level and pace:
- Alberta Falls Trail (easy)
- Sprague Lake Loop (easy)
- Emerald Lake Trail (moderate)
- Lake Haiyaha (moderate)
- Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge Trail (hard)
- Chasm Lake (hard)
Safety Tips for High-Altitude Hiking
While you may want to have the hike of your life, it’s also important to have a safe one. Here’s how you can do so.
Recognizing and Managing Altitude Sickness
It’s important to recognize the symptoms of altitude sickness so you can turn back before your condition worsens. Watch out for:
The only way to truly manage altitude sickness is to return to a lower altitude. If that isn’t possible, consider stopping to rest or taking medication like acetazolamide, dexamethasone, or nifedipine.
Weather Preparedness and Trail Safety
Just like any other day, check the weather before you head out! If it’s raining or storming the night before, your trail could change drastically, becoming muddy or having fallen branches on your path.
If a storm does happen to appear during your hike when you’re up high, then make your way down as soon as you can. Also, you may encounter wildlife on your hike. It’s illegal to touch and approach them in the park, so keep your distance and wait until they depart before continuing your journey.
Store Your RV Properly With Honey Bee RV Storage
Before hitting the trails, make sure you store your RV away properly. Honey Bee RV Storage offers reliable, spacious RV storage for your adventure vehicle. Plus, with covered storage options, you can start your journey with peace of mind. Call or contact us online to rent or reserve your spot today and hike the best trails in the Rocky Mountains without worry.