Hiking Essentials: What you need for a day hike in Rocky Mountain National Park
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
We have lived in Estes Park and the Rocky Mountain National Park for over a decade. When we first arrived, we were lucky to have friends show us what we needed for a day hike.
Staying Fueled and Hydrated: Snacks, lunch and water are all very important. A place to protect your food from predators is just as important. The Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze cooler is perfect for a day trip. A cooler like the Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze helps keep your food fresh and water cold, especially on longer hikes. Pre-freezing water bottles and placing them at the cooler’s bottom ensures chilled water throughout the day.
Navigation: Ditch the winging-it and embrace the thrill of the navigate! Whether you’re charting your course beforehand or need a trusty guide on the go, navigation systems are your adventure BFFs. But don’t be a one-trick pony! Mastering a topographical map and compass or your GPS unit, like a Garmin, is like having a superpower for exploring. Equip yourself with these skills and get ready to conquer any path!
Binoculars: High power, compact, water proof binoculars form Accer will be your best friend on your day hike. You will want to stay a safe distance from the moose and elk in Rocky Mountain National Park. These binoculars are perfect for your day pact and easy to carry with you as you hike to spot majestic wildlife in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Flashlight: Do not get caught in the dark in the mountains. Unlike the city, there is very little light pollution so when the sun goes down, you don’t want to be without at least a 900000 High Lumens Super Bright Flash Light. Waterproof, long battery life, easy to recharge and the telescopic function make this perfect for hiking.
Travel First Aid Kit: Be prepared. Do not leave anything to chance when you are hiking in the mountains. A simple first aid kit for day hiking can be the difference in having a great hike or a very bad one. A small pocket size portable kit easily fits in your backpack. You may want to add some bug spray to your first aid kit because on a day hike you may need it.
Day backpack: For a day hike, you will want to find something that will fit your essentials. A good quality day pack will have high-quality material which is water proof. A ergonomic and comfortable design with padded back helps reduce fatigue during a day hike. Don’t forget to make sure it has a chest buckle to help distribute the weight of your pack.
Walking Sticks: These are an essential item if you like to hike anywhere. Sometimes trails are rocky and a walking stick is just what you need. No twisting your knees, or stumbling over a tree root. TrailBuddy Trekking Pole are lightweight and collapsible. That makes for easy to travel with a can be attached to your day pack as it has its own bag. I love the padded straps and moisture-wicking cork. It keeps your hands from slipping and you feel like you have control of your steps. I never leave home without them.
Other Essentials: Your phone, matches, a small pouch incase you are caught in a quick rain, proper shoes, and clothing. Remember as you climb in elevation, the cooler it will get. I always tell our gests to wear layers. Make sure you have a lightweight jacket or sweatshirt that zips. This helps with venting as you are hiking.
Be Prepared: Weather can change fast in Rocky Mountain National Park. Check the weather before you go, talk to the ranges along the way, and never hike alone.
Bonus Tips for a Magical Hike
- Charge your phone! Cell service might be limited, but it’s a lifesaver in emergencies.
- Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for anything.
- Inform a park ranger about your planned route.
- Never hike alone. There’s safety in numbers, and exploring with a buddy is more fun anyway!