Good route-finding skills are essential on all winter adventures in the mountains

Headed to Rocky Mountain National Park this winter to hike? The park posted this on their social media yesterday:

Good route-finding skills are essential on all winter adventures in the mountains.

Trails in Rocky Mountain National Park are not marked in winter. Know where you want to go and use a map and compass to help you get to the desired destination. Don't just follow the snowshoe or ski tracks of others, as they may lead you off course and in a direction you did not wish to travel. In the wintertime, it is best to carry a paper map and know how to read it. Planning to solely rely on a phone or other electronic device for navigation is not ideal, for phone batteries can drain quickly in cold temperatures.

Additional Winter Hiking Safety Tips:

* Visit https://avalanche.state.co.us/ and check the current Avalanche Conditions before heading out on any backcountry trip.

* Take time to check the weather before setting out. Be prepared to turn back if you are not prepared for the conditions; weather can change rapidly.

* Before beginning your trip, tell someone not traveling with you what your planned route is and when you expect to be back. Remember to let that person know when you are back from your trip.

* Pack wisely for your winter adventure, including warm layers of clothing, hat, waterproof/wind-proof jacket, and snowshoes or traction devices.

* Pack a headlight or flashlight; the sun sets early when hiking in the mountains. Don't rely on cell phone flashlights alone.

* It is easy to become dehydrated when hiking. Bring plenty of water.

What are trails in the park like? Check out RMNP's current Trail Conditions Report at https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/trail_conditions.htm.

Jeff
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com

Ramble On: A History of Hiking
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park