5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Hiking in Colorado

As someone who grew up on the East Coast, hiking in Colorado hit very differently. Between the thin air, surprise storms, and steep elevation gains, I learned a lot on those first few trails (and not all of it the easy way). They don’t call Denver the “Mile High City” for nothing!

Whether you’re heading to the Rockies for a weekend escape, or planning a full week of adventure, here are the five things I wish I knew before setting foot on the trail.

 

5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Hiking in Colorado

 

1. The altitude hits faster than you think 

I thought I was ready. I hike all the time back home, how different could Colorado be? The answer: very.

Even on short, beginner-friendly trails, I noticed the thinner air right away. On day one, I got winded on a flat loop that wouldn’t have fazed me back east. As soon as we started climbing, my heart rate skyrocketed and the cardio demands kicked in fast. There’s no shame in stopping more than usual; Colorado makes you earn those views.

Thankfully, no one in our group experienced altitude sickness, but it stayed on our radar. Altitude sickness occurs when someone ascends too rapidly for their body to adjust to the reduced oxygen and air pressure changes. Symptoms include:

• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Insomnia or dizziness

If symptoms hit, the best treatment is to hydrate, rest, and descend if needed. And yes, you can get it even if you’re fit!

Pro tip: Start with a lower elevation trail to acclimate. Hydrate early and often; don’t push your pace too hard on the first day.

 

2. Bring more water than you think you’ll need 

As many times as I’ve hiked, I should know by now to always account for extra miles. We planned our longest trail to land around nine miles. Reality? Closer to twelve.

And we ran out of water about halfway through.

In Colorado’s dry climate, it’s easy to underestimate how much you’re sweating. It evaporates quickly, so you feel cooler than you actually are, but you’re still losing hydration fast.

The dry climate means you don’t always notice how much you’re sweating. It’s always a good idea to pack extra water, especially on long hikes.

Pro tip: Always carry more water than you think you’ll need, especially on anything longer than five miles. I started keeping a backup bottle in my daypack just in case someone else in the group runs out too.

 

3. The weather can change in an instant

We started our first hike in the Rockies under clear blue skies, walking towards Emerald Lake without a care in the world. About halfway there, the mountains had a mood swing. Suddenly, storm clouds rolled in from nowhere and we got drenched. Fifteen minutes later, it was sunny again as if the whole thing didn’t happen.

Mountain weather can be unpredictable at the best of times. No matter what the forecast says, always pack for all four seasons. Always pack a rain layer, even on sunny mornings. It’s not unheard of to experience mid-summer snowstorms!

Pro tip: Bring a lightweight rain jacket and stuff it into the bottom of your pack. You won’t regret having it, and it doubles as a windbreaker if the temperature drops.

 

4. Colorado sunshine is intense; don’t forget sun protection 

As prone to sunburns as I am, I really should’ve known better. But there I was, hiking thousands of feet in the open air… with no sunscreen on.

The cooler, drier air tricks you into feeling safe, but the thinner atmosphere at higher altitudes means way more UV exposure. Your skin and eyes need protection whether it’s sunny or overcast.

Pro tip: If you don’t feel like reapplying every few hours, sun hoodies are the way to go! Most of them are around SPF 50, but it’s still a good idea to lather any exposed skin with sunscreen. Don’t forget your sunglasses too!

 

5. Even summer hikes get cold at higher elevations 

This one, at least, I prepared for. When we hiked to Sky Pond (at 10,900 feet!), I packed a puffy jacket, gloves, and earmuffs; and I’m so glad I did.

The temperature dropped significantly as we climbed. With all the wind and mist at the alpine lake, I would’ve been freezing in a t-shirt. Even on warm days, elevation gain means a sheer drop in temperature: about 3-5°F for every 1,000 feet.

Pro tip: Always bring one more layer than you think you’ll need. I stash a packable jacket, gloves, beanie, and sometimes even a scarf depending on the hike. You’ll thank yourself when the wind picks up at the summit.

 

Final Thoughts

Colorado hiking is incredibly rewarding, but it’s no joke. The scenery is otherworldly, the lakes are unreal, and the trails are unforgettable. They do, however, come with their own challenges, and preparation makes all the difference.

If you’re heading west this season, I hope these tips help you stay safe, comfortable, and ready to enjoy every mile.

Related:  The The 10 Hiking Essentials I Bring on Every Day Hike 

What lessons did you learn on Colorado trails? Tell your story in the comments below!