Safety and Preparedness while enjoying RMNP by Iolanthe Culjak, PT, CEAS Rocky Mountain Na onal Park is a great year-round des na on. Many people come to Rocky to enjoy hiking, snowshoeing, fishing, skiing, or climbing. Everyone needs the right tools and to be prepared for changing terrain, changing weather and physiological changes at al tude. With a li le bit of knowledge, you can safely enjoy your outdoor adventures. First rule of safety is always let someone know your intended des na on and approximate me to complete your outdoor ac vity. If you do happen to get lost or injured, then it is easier for search and rescue if they have an idea of where you may be located when your contact party reports you late or missing. Simple preparedness can mean the difference between life and death.
Weather Weather in RMNP is ever-changing from season to season and minute to minute. A warm day in the summer can drop 40 degrees in a few minutes with a passing thunderstorm. It is not uncommon to see hail or snow in summer at high eleva ons. For those not prepared this can at the very least leave you cold and wet and at the other end of the spectrum lead to hypothermia.
Preparedness Regardless of the season or ac vity you should be prepared to spend the night if necessary. Your backpack should always contain: first aid kit, water supply and water filter for longer treks, extra food, rain or winter jacket depending on season, layers for temperature changes, headlamp, knife (One with extra tools such as a Leatherman is a good choice), matches, map and a compass at the least. For longer excursions an al meter and personal locator device may be the tools of choice. Your choice of device should be based on the ac vity you are embarking upon. Depending on distance from help, nigh me or possible white-out condi ons, things like GPS and satellite naviga on will help you find your way.
Kip Rusk is ou i ed with microspikes and hiking s cks for a recent trek to Andrews Tarn. Photo by Dave Rusk.
If your hike is headed to alpine terrain a hat and gloves are recommended even in summer. I personally carry an extra pair of socks. Hiking in wet socks can be cold and painful. Don't think an unexpected overnight stay won't happen to you. Something as simple as a bad sprain or fractured ankle can leave you stuck for many hours awai ng a rescue. Being prepared can prevent a small injury from becoming life-threatening.
Altitude Al tude in Rocky Mountain Na onal Park ranges from 7,630 at the lowest point all the way to 14,259 at its highest point. Being ac ve at al tude can affect individuals in differing ways. Higher al tude means less oxygen. Also, high al tude can increase your heart rate and blood pressure. If you have pre-exis ng heart or
