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Backpacking in Six Easy Steps
1.) We highly suggest getting a Trails Illustrated Map of Rocky Mountain National Park. This plastic waterproof topo map contains all the hiking trails as well as all the backcountry sites (which are named) in the park.
2.) Decide if you want to move from site to site OR stay put and dayhike from your basecamp.
3.) Check our website for some good options, e-mail us, or call the backcountry office at (970) 586-1242 for additional information. Be able to answer the following questions:
- How many nights out
- What is your purpose–one night out with the kids, fishing, climbing a nearby peak etc.
- What is the ability of the weakest member of your party
4.) Check our Packing Supply List for backpacking, listed below.
5.) Check what you have at home and what you’ll need to purchase or rent.
6.) E-mail us for reservations of rental equipment. All the rest we have available to purchase in our store including: stove, fuel, freeze-dried food, clothing, water filters... everything. We are also conveniently located for easy pick-up and drop-off, only one mile outside of Rocky Mountain National Park. You can also pick up gear the afternoon prior to departure.
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Let the Park System Work in Your Favor
Rocky Mountain National Park works on a permit camping system for the backcountry. This means that you can’t just camp anywhere but must obtain a permit for your dates and particular campsite.
Don’t let this deter you. Believe me, it makes it much, much easier to plan your trip due to the following:
- You will not be searching all day for a campsite. Your permit will guarantee a site that is flat, beautiful, and has access to water.
- Your site will be yours alone.
- You will know the mileages between sites as well as the elevation gain, making it easier to plan your trip and your day.
- The permit system ensures that backpackers are spread out and the number of people in the park limited– making your experience more enjoyable.
- The backcountry office knows where you are– a comforting thought in case of emergency.
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Packing Supply List
Backcountry Permit
Backpack (Rentals offered)
Map & Compass
Hiking Boots & Socks
Hiking Poles (Rentals offered)
Tent & Ground Cloth (Rentals offered)
Sleeping Bag & Sleeping Pad (Rentals offered)
Clothing (Quick-drying, appropriate for season and climate)
Sunglasses & Sunscreen
Raingear & Pack Cover
Food
Cooking & Eating Gear
Stove
Bear Cache Canister (Rentals offered)
Water Bottles
Water Purification System
First Aid & Emergency Kit
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