While visiting the Peak to Peak region can be a magical experience, from soaking in the sweeping views and breathing in the cool air, to experiencing all that Colorado has to offer in terms of true outdoor adventuring, there are common Do’s and Don’t’s to follow in order to get the most out of your visit to the mountains.
DO be prepared before hitting the trail. Extreme weather conditions in the mountains can rise and fall dramatically, so always pay attention to your local weather app and bring an extra layer or two of clothing with you before taking that big day-hike.
DON’T keep trudging forward if the weather conditions get too severe; turning around is your best option in that scenario.
DO be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness, including headaches, nausea, fatigue, a quickening of the heart rate, and shortness of breath. Take it slow and ascend into the mountains gradually, especially if traveling from sea-level, and take day trips into higher elevations while sleeping at a lower elevation.
DON’T continue traveling to higher elevations once the symptoms of altitude sickness are present. Rest and drink plenty of water if you experience any symptoms. If the symptoms get worse, immediately return to a lower elevation.
DO your homework in regard to planning your camping trip; ensure that you are properly trained, prepared, and permitted for any backcountry camping on U.S. Forest Service land, and always register online for any camping in state parks.
DON’T ever ignore area fire bans. Whether you’re camping, glamping, or AirBnB’ing, don’t start a campfire if the town or county you’re in is under a fire ban. Don’t ever leave a campfire unattended, and do make sure that a campfire is completely out and no longer hot or smoldering when extinguishing it.
DO bring bear spray and/or an air horn when camping and hiking, as bears, moose, and mountain lions, though majestic to witness (from a distance), can be dangerous. Also, hike in groups, carry a walking stick or pocketful of rocks, and always keep an eye on your children and pets.
DON’T leave any “attractants” at your campsite or on trail, such as food, toothpaste, or even deodorant. DON’T try to get close to any animal for selfies. And DON’T hike anywhere with your pet off leash.
DO enjoy some tasty mountain-brewed or distilled beverages, as well as partake in some mountain-grown legal marijuana (if you’re of age, of course), but…
…DON’T overdo it, as both drinking alcohol and smoking or eating THC products can worsen some altitude sickness symptoms, as well as heighten dehydration symptoms.
Originally published in the 2025 Visitor's Guide.
