6 tips to make your next hiking adventure a breeze

The Centennial State is home to some of the best hiking trails in the United States, but if you’ve never hiked Colorado’s wondrous mountains, you may need some guidance in planning your next adventure. We can help! Not only does the Frisco Inn on Galena offer help to all of our guests with planning outdoor adventures in Summit County, we have complied a list of six tips to make your next summer trip to the mountains a breeze.

1. Plan Ahead

A day in the outdoors hiking is a perfect way to exercise, while experiencing nature’s beauty. However, having a plan before you head out on your adventure can help prevent running into trouble on the trail. A good place to start is by paying attention to the weather. Weather in the Colorado mountains can change in an instant so dress in layers and pack light rain gear just in case an afternoon shower (or downpour) catches up with you.

Setting out with the right gear can make or break your trip so make sure to wear supportive, comfortable footwear that will protect your feet on the trails. And, Colorado sun can strong so a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are always appropriate. If you forgot something you need, our friends at Pioneer Sports in Frisco are fully stocked with anything you might need. They offer our guests a 30% discount on almost everything in the store before you head over. This discount is for Frisco Inn guests only!

2. Beat The Crowd

Summertime is popular in the mountains of Colorado and planning your timing to beat the crowds is always a good idea. Heading to the hills to escape the stress of the city is a great getaway but getting stuck in crowds and traffic may leave you feeling like you never left the metro. Many of the popular trails in Summit County can be limited on parking during the summer season so get an early start and beat the crowd. Holidays and weekends area always busier times throughout popular hiking areas around Frisco so take that into account when planning. If you’re not sure of the distance to a specific area, feel free to ask an Innkeeper at the Frisco Inn on Galena before you head out and we can help you plan your trip. Contact us today.

3. Pack Essentials & Be Prepared

Mother nature doesn’t always follow our schedules so being prepared with essentials during your hike can be crucial. Some of the most important items you should carry are:
A map and compass, plenty of water and food to replenish energy, a basic first aid kit, a flashlight, lightweight rain gear and sunscreen. The above list can make a world of a difference if you find yourself in a situation you didn’t plan on.

4. Pick a Trail For Your Skill Level
Hiking should be a fun and rewarding experience and picking a trail that suits your level of skill can make or break your wilderness adventure. Unless you’re visiting from a high altitude area, remember that hiking at altitude will require more exertion than at lower elevations. Take this into account when you plan your hike and be sure to drink plenty of water to fend off altitude sickness while exercising in the high country. Don’t be afraid to take breaks and enjoy the scenery – that’s what you came for, after all! From beginner to advanced, there are plenty of trails in Summit County that are applicable to all skill sets.

5. Wildlife Awareness

One of the best parts of hiking in the Colorado mountains is exploring the great outdoors. However, a healthy dose of respect for nature will keep you from ending up with a poisonous rash or a surprise encounter with the real Yogi Bear. Be aware of the plants and wildlife you encounter and give them plenty of space. Familiarize yourself with what to do if you run across a wildcat or bear so you can avoid a potentially dangerous situation. Clean up after yourself along the trail, taking care not to leave food or trash that might attract wildlife. If you’re interested in plants, pick up a plant and flower ID book so you can avoid potentially getting up close and personal with any poisonous plants. And remember, picking wildflowers along highways and in national parks in Colorado is illegal.

6. Have Fun And Let Others Know Where You Are

Checking out of the city and heading to the mountains is supposed to be a fun adventure, and we hope that you have a blast exploring the trails in Summit County. However, whether you’re hiking alone or in a group, always let someone who is not joining you on your hike know where you are going and for how long you plan to be gone. While mobile phone service is generally great in the mountain towns, out on the trail can be another story. Letting someone know your plans will help ensure your safety and rescue should something unexpected happen along the way. If you’re staying with us at the Frisco Inn on Galena, feel free to let an Innkeeper know what you’re planning and we’ll keep a log of that information at the front desk.

Now, get out of the house and into the mountains! There are still a few months of prime hiking weather to take advantage of here in Summit County. Stay safe and have fun!

Frisco Inn