COLORADO, USA — PAID FOR BY COLORADO TOURISM OFFICE
There’s nothing like Colorado’s great outdoors, where visitors from near and far have found a haven for adventure, moments of peace and a chance to wonder at the pristine natural beauty of our diverse landscape. With over 39,000 miles of awe-inspiring trails to explore, there’s a lot to see and do — but there’s also a lot to know about how you can help keep our trails beautiful and protect the spaces we all share.
1. Protect the natural habitat. Colorado’s ecosystem is home to many different types of plants, trees and more than 2,000 different species of wildflowers. Admire the beauty of the landscape and leave something for those that come after you to enjoy by taking a photo, rather than carving into trees or picking flowers and plants to take with you. And remember that staying on the trail — even when grabbing that glorious high-country selfie — can further help protect these vulnerable plants, keep animal habitats healthy and preserve the trail for your next visit.
2. Respect the wildlife. Colorado is home to tens of thousands of furry, scaly and feathered creatures. To keep them — and you — safe, make sure to keep your (and your dog’s) distance. Pet restrictions on trails and local leash laws provide protection for sensitive wildlife and their habitats. And if you’re ever unsure as to whether you’re too close to a wildlife, keep this simple principle in mind: If you can cover the entire animal with your thumb, you’re at a safe distance.
3. Keep the hike/Colorado beautiful. Consider bringing a grocery bag to tote along your banana peels, protein-bar wrappers and even pet waste until you can find a proper trash can. Go the extra mile and leave the trail better than you found it by picking up trash left by others. And don’t forget to bring your snacks in reusable containers to reduce the number of things that need to be thrown away.
4. Share the trail. Everyone experiences and enjoys the outdoors in different ways. Be mindful of your group's noise level so everyone can appreciate our shared spaces and keep trail etiquette in mind when around other trail users. While the downhill hiker should yield to the uphill hiker and biker in need of momentum, wheelchair users and equestrians always have the right of way.
5. Pick the right hike. Ensure an amazing experience by picking a hike that matches the abilities of your entire group. Take the time to prepare for your hike by finding out more about the trail’s length, difficulty level and recent conditions. You’re sure to enjoy the hike more when you know what to expect of the terrain and how long the hike may take you.
6. Know where you are headed. Just like it’s important to pick the right hike and plan accordingly, it’s also important to map out your trek, as cell service is not always available in Colorado’s remote areas. Trail-mapping resources, like the free Colorado Trail Explorer (COTREX) app, are handy and can provide offline map navigation, descriptions and reviews that give you an indication of trail conditions and difficulty. But it’s always a good idea to bring a paper map so you don't have to worry if your phone battery dies.
7. Check the forecast. Planning ahead and keeping an eye on changing weather will ensure the safest and most enjoyable time possible. Your trip experience deserves the best conditions, so pair your plans with an optimal climate and remain flexible. But even if your forecast looks clear, expect the unexpected and come prepared by packing plenty of layers for sun, rain, wind and even snow.
8. Choose off-peak hike times. Travel at off-peak times, like during the week, for a greater chance of having the place to yourself. Try to arrive at the trailhead as early as possible to not only ensure a peaceful trek, but to also avoid getting caught in afternoon showers.
9. Stay Hydrated. A good rule of thumb is to pack and consume double the amount of water you normally would to increase your blood oxygen level and prevent altitude sickness. Limit your waste and carry your water with ease by bringing a reusable water bottle or hydration bladder to sip from.
Sponsored by: Colorado Tourism Office
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