The 7 Reasons Why You Should Consider a Rocky Mountain Adventure

The following is a guest post:

Are you up for an exhilarating and breathtaking outdoor adventure? If so, a Rocky Mountain experience should be on your bucket list. This majestic region features stunning landscapes, rugged terrain, and boundless opportunities for exploration, from multi-day hikes to breathtaking summits and snowboarding sessions. It offers everything and more necessary in crafting the perfect outdoor excursion. But why should you consider a Rocky Mountain adventure? To help you, we'll outline seven reasons why this type of experience makes for the ideal getaway. So keep reading to discover some of nature's most splendid offerings.


Has Various Activities to Offer

When you plan to head to the Rocky Mountains, you'll be in for a treat. There are many awesome activities on offer, no matter your skill level or interests. From multi-day hikes and long bike rides to skiing runs and more, you can find the perfect adventure for you. So make sure you have the gear and get ready to experience the Rockies like never before. Whatever activity you decide to do, it is sure to be an unforgettable experience that will create lasting memories forever.


You Can Use a Car To Get There

Driving to the Rocky Mountains is a great way to experience their unique beauty first-hand. In addition, you'll have the freedom and convenience of taking your car, allowing you to bring all the gear and supplies you need for your adventure. Plus, this area has some of the best scenic drives in the world. So, whether you're exploring nearby or from a faraway destination, take your right car and go on a road trip to the Rocky Mountains. The Isuzu D-Max is a great option for those looking for a reliable, comfortable ride to their destination.


It's a Perfect Place To Unwind

If you need to take some time away from the everyday grind, you can't go wrong with a trip to the Rocky Mountains. Picture this scene: lush forests, rolling hills and snow-capped peaks. It's like being in a postcard - only you can experience it for real. Taking a break from your studies or having some time for yourself can feel rejuvenating when surrounded by such natural beauty. It is the perfect place for peace and relaxation - worth disconnecting from the daily hustle and bustle.


Get a Chance To Witness Incredible Wildlife

A Rocky Mountain getaway is the stuff of dreams if you're an animal lover within reach of this incredible mountain range. Wildlife like cougars, bighorn sheep, and a variety of majestic birds call the Rockies home. Witnessing these animals in their natural environment is an experience like no other. Plus, who doesn't like to go hiking in gorgeous mountain scenery and see vibrant wildlife? So take advantage of this chance before it's gone.


Breathtaking Scenery

Exploring the breathtaking scenery of the Rocky Mountains is like having a window into another world. The rugged peaks rise from peaceful valleys, bordered by tranquil rivers and lakes. And, of course, what sets this mountain range apart from others is the sheer amount of remarkable beauty that's waiting to be discovered. Also, no matter how often you come back, you can always find something new and amazing to admire.


Many Adventures Suited To Any Budget

Flexibility is key when planning an adventure in the Rockies. Whether you're working with a tight budget or have money to burn, there's something that can fit your financial situation. For those on a budget, find camping sites and rent necessary gear that won't strain your wallet. And if you want to upscale your experience, opt for longer trips and reputable guided tours. Adventures in the Rocky Mountains don't need to be expensive; they just need creativity.


Make New Friends

Exploring the Rocky Mountains is already an amazing experience in itself. However, it's made even better by connecting with like-minded adventurers. Swapping stories around a campfire or joining a larger group for a few hours of hiking adds fun to your journey and allows you to make friends. Even if you don't stay in constant contact after the trip is made, the bonds created can last a lifetime, just like those incredible Rocky Mountain memories.


Conclusion

The Rocky Mountains provide an unforgettable adventure for all those who visit. With breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife and endless activities to choose from, it's easy to see why this is one of the most popular mountain ranges in the world. Plus, with travel options suited to any budget, you don't have to break the bank just to experience a Rocky Mountain getaway. So consider the above seven reasons and start planning your Rocky Mountain adventure today. Happy adventures!



Jeff
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com

Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

Overnight Wilderness Backpacking Camping Permits for RMNP go on sale March 1

Rocky Mountain National Park posted this on their social media earlier today:

Planning to go wilderness backpacking camping in Rocky Mountain National Park this summer? Now is the time to get ready!

Overnight Wilderness Backpacking Camping Permits will go on sale via Recreation.gov at 8 a.m. MT on Wednesday, March 1.

Please be aware that there will not be any in-person wilderness backpacking reservations taken at the park's Wilderness Offices from March 1 through April 3 for summer trips between May 1 through October 31, 2023. Wilderness trips must be booked using Recreation.gov.

For important tips and to begin planning for your summer backpacking camping trips, visit the park's webpage at https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/wilderness-camping.htm. Take time to become familiar with route maps, wilderness campsite locations, and the park's wilderness camping regulations.

Next, visit Rocky's wilderness camping permit site on Recreation.gov and take time to become familiar with the site.

When can I book my summer backpacking trip?

Beginning on March 1 at 8 a.m. MT, the “Check Availability” feature on Recreation.gov will become active and you will be able to book trips for small groups (1-7 people) and large groups (8-12 people).

Jeff
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com

Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

Winter Storm Warning Issued for Northern Colorado

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Denver CO
331 AM MST Wed Feb 22 2023

...A WINTER STORM CONTINUES TODAY THROUGH THURSDAY MORNING IMPACTING NORTHERN COLORADO...

.Snow ongoing. Travel will deteriorate in the I-25 corridor north of Denver before rush hour Wednesday morning, and snowy or icy roads will likely develop in the Denver metro area around sunrise. The most likely times for accumulating snow in the Front Range cities will be around the morning and evening rush hours.

In the mountains, snow will become widespread overnight and will be heavy at times in the Rabbit Ears and Cameron Pass areas. In the I-70 corridor the snow will initially be light, but heavy snow showers are likely Wednesday afternoon.

Temperatures will also drop sharply, from around freezing in the early morning hours to the single digits in the afternoon. Be prepared for below zero wind chills by the end of the day Wednesday.

The snow will end Wednesday evening, but it will remain cold into Thursday.

Larimer and Boulder Counties Between 6000 and 9000 Feet- Including the cities of Estes Park, Red Feather Lakes, Nederland, and Glendevey 331 AM MST Wed Feb 22 2023

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 8 PM MST THIS EVENING...

* WHAT...Heavy snow ongoing. Additional snow accumulations between 4 and 6 inches.

* WHERE...The Northern Front Range Foothills.

* WHEN...Until 8 PM MST this evening.

* IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for Colorado can be obtained by calling 5 1 1 or by going to www.cotrip.org.



Jeff
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com

Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park seeks input on proposal to replace staff housing lost during the East Troublesome Fire

Rocky Mountain National Park will hold a public comment period for an Environmental Assessment (EA) on the proposal to construct new employee housing in the park. The housing would replace structures destroyed in the East Troublesome Fire of 2020. Public comments on this EA will be open on the park’s Planning, Environment, and Public Comment (PEPC) website from Feb. 17 through March 5, 2023.

The structures lost in the fire provided housing for 22 seasonal employees. The proposed new housing complex would accommodate the same number of employees. Providing housing is critical for recruiting and retaining seasonal staff to work on the west side of the park. The employees work mid-April through mid-October and provide essential visitor services and carry out critical park operations. The positions include park rangers, park guides, fee and campground staff, trail crew members, buildings and utilities staff and custodians.

The proposed housing complex would be located near the existing park housing area on the west side of the park. It would consist of two dormitories, 10 residential units, three recreational vehicle sites, and a residential support facility that would include laundry, showers, and a communal kitchen.

The project would include the construction of new utility systems, replacement of a water well and associated infrastructure at the existing park housing area, and removal of destroyed utilities infrastructure. Disaster supplemental funding is expected to pay for the proposed project.

On October 21, 2020, the East Troublesome Fire made a run of 18-miles and over 100,000-acres in Grand County, Colorado. Rocky Mountain National Park lost numerous structures, including 18 historic buildings at the former Green Mountain-Onahu seasonal housing area, 3 RV sites and all associated utilities. The East Troublesome Fire was the largest fire in Rocky Mountain National Park’s 108-year history. It burned over 21,000 acres within the park.

The park held a virtual public meeting in July of 2022. To learn more about this proposed project, click here.

Public comments on this proposed project can be submitted at the following web address: https://go.nps.gov/parkplanning/romo/replacementhousing.

Comments may also be submitted via mail to: Rocky Mountain National Park
Office of the Superintendent
1000 US Hwy 36
Estes Park, CO 80517

Please be advised, before including your address, phone number, e-mail address, or other personal identifying information in your comment, you should be aware that your entire comment – including your personal identifying information – may be made publicly available at any time. Although you can ask in your comment to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, we cannot guarantee we will be able to do so.



Jeff
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com

Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

To Protect Nesting Raptors Temporary Closures In Lumpy Ridge And Loch Vale Areas Begin

Each year, to protect breeding and nesting sites of raptors (also known as birds of prey), Rocky Mountain National Park officials initiate temporary closures in the park. Raptors that are protected include multiple species of hawks, owls, golden eagles, and peregrine falcons.

To ensure that these birds can nest undisturbed, specific areas within the park are closed temporarily to public use during their breeding and nesting season. These areas are monitored by park wildlife managers. Raptor closures begin on February 15 and continue through July 31, if appropriate. These closures may be extended longer or rescinded at an earlier date depending on nesting activity.

A closure is in place in the Loch Vale area which includes Cathedral Wall. The areas above the Loch Vale-Sky Pond Trail are closed to off trail travel.

In the Lumpy Ridge area closures include Checkerboard Rock, Lightning Rock, Batman Rock, Batman Pinnacle, Sundance, Thunder Buttress, The Parish, Bookmark Pinnacle, The Left Book, Bookmark, Twin Owls, Rock One and the Needle. These closures include the named formations. Closures include all climbing routes, outcroppings, cliffs, faces, ascent and descent routes and climber access trails to the named rock formations. Check the park’s website at https://www.nps.gov/romo/raptor-closures.htm for all details on specific raptor closure areas, including maps.

The National Park Service is committed to preserving birds of prey. If nest sites are located or territorial behaviors such as aggressive divebombing/vocalizing or birds fleeing nest sites due to human disturbance are observed, please report the general location to ROMO_Information@nps.gov.

The same cliffs that are critical for raptors also appeal to climbers. The cooperation of climbing organizations and individuals continues to be essential to the successful nesting of raptors in the park.



Jeff
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com

Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

eBook Edition of "Ramble On" is Now Available on Amazon

Last week I annouced the release of my brand new book, Ramble On: How Hiking Became One of the Most Popular Outdoor Activities in the World. Today, I wanted to announce that the eBook version of "Ramble On" has just been published, and is now available on Amazon!

As with the original paperback edition, in this new eBook you’ll learn about:

* How the Age of Enlightenment and the Romantic Era influenced art, literature, religion and thought, which allowed hiking to bloom and eventually flourish.

* The crucial role the Crawford’s of New Hampshire played in the development of hiking, including the construction of two paths to the summit of Mt. Washington that were likely the first recreational trails in the world.

* The first hiking clubs, why they organized, and the key role they played in making hiking a popular pastime.

* How the Alpine Club of Williamstown’s inclusion of women set a precedent for admitting females in subsequent American clubs, a policy not shared by many of the first European clubs.

* The key innovations in gear and apparel, such as Vibram, Gore-Tex, fleece, polypropylene underwear and backpacks.

* The apparel women were forced to wear during the Victorian era, and the danger those fashion standards posed to women who dared to venture into the mountains.

For more information on the book, and to order your copy now, please click here.

Finally, I would really appreciate if you could share this post with any of your hiking friends and social media contacts who might be interested in this book!

Thank you very much!



Jeff
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com

Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

The Top 5 Reasons to Visit Rocky Mountain National Park

Encompassing more than 265,000 acres, and with more than sixty peaks topping out above 12,000 feet, Rocky Mountain National Park is home to some of the most spectacular scenery on Earth. From wooded forests to alpine tundra, these majestic mountains provide habitat to more than 60 species of mammals, while more than 280 species of birds visit or reside within the park. With more than 350 miles of trails meandering throughout the park, Rocky Mountain is also widely recognized as a hiker’s paradise. Here’s why you should plan to visit Rocky sometime this year:

The Continental Divide
One of the best things about Rocky Mountain National Park is its accessibility to the high country. No other park in the country allows visitors to gain lofty elevations so easily. Roughly one-third of the park is above tree-line, and more than 60 peaks top out above 12,000 feet, including 14,259-foot Longs Peak, the highest peak in the park. In addition to trails like the Flattop Mountain Trail or the route to Mt. Ida, visitors can also drive over the Continental Divide along the highest continuous paved road in North America. With a maximum elevation of 12,183 feet, and more than eight miles traveling above 11,000 feet, Trail Ridge Road connects Estes Park with Grand Lake. The road also provides access to outstanding tundra hikes such as the Ute Trail, the Tundra Communities Trail and the Alpine Ridge Trail.

Wildflowers
Wet springs can bring exceptional wildflower blooming seasons in Rocky Mountain National Park. Even during normal years the park explodes with a variety of wildflowers. Some of the varieties visitors might enjoy include Alpine Clover, Rock Primrose, Western Wallflower, Sky Pilot and Alpine Sunflowers in the tundra areas of the park, as well as Mountain Iris, Lupine, Mariposa-lily and Colorado Columbines in the lower elevations. Some of best wildflower hikes include Big Meadows, Cascade Falls, Emerald Lake and the Lumpy Ridge Loop, among many others.

Longs Peak
At 14,259 feet, Longs Peak is the highest mountain in Rocky Mountain National Park. The iconic sentinel is seen from almost anywhere in the park, as well as from many locations around northern Colorado. It’s also one of most popular “fourteeners” for hikers and climbers to tackle in a state that boasts a total of 53 peaks above 14,000 feet. Although considered a mountaineering route, thousands of hikers attempt to summit the peak each summer using the famous Keyhole Route. Personally, I don’t want anything to do with the narrow ledges and steep cliffs along the upper portions of the route. I much prefer safer climbs such as Hallett Peak and the Chapin-Chiquita-Ypsilon Mountains route to cure my big mountain summit fever.

Elk Rut
The annual elk rut is one of the premier attractions in Rocky Mountain National Park. Each fall elk descend from the high country to the lower elevation meadows during the annual breeding season. During the rut, bull elk compete with one another for the right to breed with herds of females. Mature bulls compete for cows by bugling, posturing, displaying their antlers and herding, while occasionally fighting off young challengers. The peak season for the rut generally lasts from mid-September to mid-October in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Fall Aspens
Just as the elk rut is kicking into high gear, another annual event that draws tourists to the park during the autumn are the brilliant fall colors of aspens. Each September the leaves of quacking aspens turn from green to orange and golden yellow throughout the park. Some of best hikes for viewing fall aspens include Bierstadt Lake, Alberta Falls, Cub Lake, Finch Lake, Adams Falls and Chasm Lake, among many others.

In addition to the hikes discussed above, Rocky Mountain National Park has many other outstanding hikes that take-in the best scenery the park has to offer. If you do plan to visit Rocky Mountain this year, please note that our hiking website also offers a wide variety of accommodation listings and other things to do to help with all your vacation planning.



                *******************************************************************************

From Montana to New Mexico, the American Rockies stretch for more than a thousand miles. Within this spectacular mountain range are thousands of miles of hiking trails. With such an overwhelming number of options, how will you find and choose the most scenic and rewarding hikes?

Ultimate Hiking Guide to the Rocky Mountains takes all the guesswork out by focusing on some of the most amazing hikes across this range, and provides you with a handpicked list of options that will allow you to make the most of your trips in the Rockies:

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza linked to deaths of black bear and mountain lion in Colorado

Colorado Parks and Wildlife has identified several cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in free-ranging wildlife. A black bear from Huerfano County was affected by the disease in October, a skunk from Weld County was found to be positive for the disease in November, and a mountain lion that died in Gunnison County was recently confirmed to have the disease. Testing was conducted by Colorado State University in Fort Collins and the National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa.

HPAI has already killed thousands of wild birds in the U.S., including in Colorado. This strain of HPAI was first confirmed in wild geese in Northeast Colorado in March of 2022.

All three of the confirmed cases showed signs of HPAI before or after death including neurologic symptoms such as seizures or circling, general signs of illness such as weakness or lack of responsiveness to human presence, and organ damage including encephalitis, hepatitis, and pneumonia. Other similar suspected mammalian cases have been detected in the state, with confirmatory testing pending.

The Huerfano County black bear was euthanized Oct. 8, 2022, by a CPW wildlife officer after he saw it having seizures. Its remains were frozen until it could be transported to the health lab for testing. A necropsy revealed the bear had signs of HPAI, prompting CPW to test for HPAI. Later in October, a black bear in Alaska tested positive for HPAI.

The Gunnison County mountain lion was found dead just outside of Gunnison city limits on Jan. 15, 2023, in an area where mountain lion activity is commonplace. The mountain lion had necrosis in the liver and bronchointerstitial pneumonia, which have been seen in domestic cats with HPAI, so this also warranted HPAI testing.

A number of mammalian wildlife species have been affected with the current strain of HPAI in the U.S. including skunks, foxes, black bears, bobcats, coyotes and raccoons among several others. It has even been detected in marine mammals. These mammals likely become infected by feeding on wild birds that are sick or have died of HPAI; however, not every mammal that consumes a sick bird will develop HPAI. These recent Colorado cases add to a growing list of affected wildlife species.

Despite the variety of mammalian species susceptible to HPAI, the numbers of mammal cases are currently low. The majority of cases confirmed during this HPAI outbreak are in wild and domestic birds. The most commonly affected wild birds in Colorado have been geese, as well as the raptors and other scavenging birds that eat goose carcasses.

CPW continues to stress the importance of keeping your distance from wildlife, and specifically not handling sick or dead birds. Although rare, some HPAI strains can infect people. Links to recommendations for hunters and risks to pets are included below. The main protection for the general public is to avoid handling sick or dead birds and keep your distance from wildlife. See the CDC website for more information on protective actions for people.



Jeff
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com

Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

The Colorado Trail Foundation seeks trail crew volunteers for 2023

Online registration for 2023 trail crews opened this week, and the Colorado Trail Foundation needs your help to preserve The Colorado Trail!

Volunteer Trail Crews vary in length from one to eight days. We provide training, tools, hardhats, meals (except for vehicle-supported hike-in and backpack crews), group camp equipment, and leadership. Volunteers are responsible for their own transportation to the crew location and for their personal equipment, including tent or camper, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, dishes and eating utensils, work clothes, and other personal items, as applicable. Crews typically involve a hike to the project site but basecamp crews may require a drive and a hike each day if the campsite is not within reasonable hiking distance of the project site. Week-long (7 or 8 day) crews typically include a day off mid-week. Contact the Crew Leader for crew specifics.

The Colorado Trail Foundation has had a ton of registrations, and their crews are already 33% full! Don't wait to register and miss out on your favorite crew this year.

* Volunteer for this essential work
* Camp Out in the Colorado Rockies
* Build the Trail
* Improve it, make it last
* Create drainage to prevent Trail erosion Team Up
* Sustain and preserve The Colorado Trail

Click here for the full schedule and to register!



Jeff
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com

Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

Announcing the release of "Ramble On" - My new book on the history of hiking!

I’m very excited to announce the release of my brand new book on the rich and compelling history of hiking! Ramble On: How Hiking Became One of the Most Popular Outdoor Activities in the World is an expanded edition of my original book, which was published in 2018. To give you a better idea of what the book encompasses, I've copied a portion of the introduction to the book, which is now available on Amazon.


Introduction:

How did hiking evolve from the upper-class European sport of alpinism and the publication of an English travel guide, into an activity that now has millions of participants all over the world? How did western cultures overcome their intense fear of mountains, and why were the social stigmas associated with walking rejected? What roles did the Industrial Revolution play in the development of hiking as a major pastime?

Ramble On: How Hiking Became One of the Most Popular Outdoor Activities in the World answers these and many other key questions. It chronicles hiking’s roots in alpinism and mountaineering, the societal trends that fostered its growth, some of the early hikers from the 19th century, the first trails built specifically for hiking, the formation of the first hiking clubs, as well as what the early hikers wore, and what some of the key inventions and innovations were that led to our modern array of gear and apparel.

The book also includes anecdotal stories of trail development in some of our oldest and most iconic national parks, such as Yellowstone, Yosemite, Great Smoky Mountains, Mt. Rainier, Glacier and Acadia National Park, as well as the first trails to be blazed in the White Mountains of New Hampshire - America’s first hiking destination. It also takes a look at some of the peculiar traditions of some of the early hiking clubs, including the Appalachian Mountain Club. Among the more compelling stories is the apparel women were forced to wear during the Victorian Era, and the danger those fashion standards posed to women who dared to venture into the mountains.


Why Publish a 2nd Edition?

Ramble On: How Hiking Became One of the Most Popular Outdoor Activities in the World builds upon the first edition of this book to reflect additional research, and to expand more broadly on a few topics. For example, I wanted to provide a better understanding of how the social trends that prevailed during the Age of Enlightenment influenced art, literature, religion and thought, which allowed hiking to bloom and eventually flourish. I also thought it was important to chronicle in more detail the crucial role the multi-generational Crawford family of New Hampshire played in the development of hiking. I also wanted to delve deeper into the first female hikers and mountaineers, while showing how women eagerly adopted these fledgling outdoor pursuits. As one other example, since publication of the first edition, a compelling new theory has emerged as to why Darby Field made his two ascents of Mt. Washington in 1642, which directly challenges the legend of him being the first hiker in America.

My hope is that you will you come away with a better understanding of what it took to make hiking one of the most popular outdoor activities in the world, and what we need to do to preserve our trails and the spirit of hiking for future generations to come.

To order your copy now, please click here.

Finally, I would really appreciate if you could share this post with any of your hiking friends and social media contacts who might be interested in this book!

Thank you very much!



Jeff
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com

Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

Winter Adventures in Rocky Mountain National Park

For many, winter is their favorite time of year to visit Rocky Mountain National Park. The park is less crowded, yet alive with the beauty of the season. Weekends are busier than weekdays. For those who are prepared, winter is an enchanting time to explore RMNP.

Snowshoeing is a fun, easy-to-learn activity and offers a new way to see nature in winter. RMNP offers ranger-led snowshoe walks on both the east side (Estes Park) and west side (Grand Lake) of the park. Snowshoe walks are offered through mid-March, depending on snow conditions. Participants must provide their own snowshoes. Don’t own your own gear? Rental opportunities are available in nearby communities outside of the park.

Join a Ranger-led Snowshoe Walk 

The ranger-led Beginner Snowshoe Walk is a two-hour exploration of the subalpine forest. No previous snowshoe experience is required, but the walk is considered moderately strenuous. Participants should have a baseline fitness level that allows them to snowshoe approximately one mile over hilly terrain at high elevations. Participants must be 8 years or older and MUST wear waterproof boots. For more information, visit www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/ranger-led-snowshoe-walks.htm.

Reservations are required for all ranger-led snowshoe programs. There is no additional fee beyond the regular park entrance fee to participate. On the east side of RMNP (near Estes Park), snowshoe walks are offered every Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. and reservations can be scheduled up to seven days in advance by calling 970-586-1223. On the west side of RMNP (near Grand Lake), snowshoe walks are offered every Saturday and Sunday at 1:00 p.m.; reservations can be scheduled up to four days in advance by calling 970-627-3471.

For more information on other winter activities, please click here.         



Jeff
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com

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

USDA Forest Service and Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control form joint wildland fire fuels module

Two wildland fire management agencies have announced a new agreement to proactively confront the wildfire crisis along Colorado’s northern Front Range. As part of the USDA Forest Service’s 10-year strategy to address the wildfire risk to infrastructure and communities, the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests & Pawnee National Grassland is making a multi-million dollar investment in shared resources with the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control.

"Through partnerships with agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service, we can maximize the use of shared resources to effectively mitigate fire risk," said DFPC Director Morgan. "Fire is a concern for our entire State, and this partnership is part of the long-term collaborative strategy to reduce the threat to our communities and natural resources."

The first agreement of its kind between the two agencies, the effort involves implementing a preventative, cross-boundary approach to wildfire mitigation. A highlight of the agreement involves forming a joint wildland fire and fuels module focused on reducing hazardous fuels in and around the wildland-urban interface on both public and private lands. The module will focus on strategic project planning, information distribution, and wildfire mitigation implementation (e.g. thinning and prescribed burning).

“The Division and the Forest have a strong foundation of working together during wildfires,” said Forest Supervisor Monte Williams. “This is the first time our agencies have come together to get out ahead of the fires, to do some preventative planning and treatments across fence lines, and I’m really excited about all the doors this agreement opens for us.”

Funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Law, this collaborative effort will operate in the Front Range Priority Landscape, which includes areas along the Front Range from the Wyoming state line south to the I-70 corridor. This landscape is also part of the Northern Colorado Fireshed Collaborative, a partnership of federal, state and local natural resource agencies, non-profits, community groups, and researchers working to address wildfire risks to communities and keep Colorado’s water supplies reliable.

As part of this agreement, hiring for the new joint wildland fuels module is currently underway. The fuels module will be based out of the Division’s offices in Windsor.



Jeff
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com

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

Public comments sought on Hanging Lake Trail improvements

The White River National Forest seeks comments on its proposal to redesign and reconstruct sections of the popular Hanging Lake Trail.

The trail and associated bridges suffered significant damage following the 2021 debris flows in Glenwood Canyon. While a temporary trail was opened in 2022, more extensive repairs are needed for long-term sustainability.

The White River National Forest is proposing a combination of trail improvements and ecological restoration to make the 1.2-mile Hanging Lake Trail more sustainable, safe and resilient. The project would be funded through Great Outdoors Colorado, the National Forest Foundation, and the USDA Forest Service.

“This work would not be possible without the close support from the many partners who help us with Hanging Lake, especially Great Outdoors Colorado, the National Forest Foundation, City of Glenwood Springs, and Colorado Department of Transportation,” said White River National Forest Supervisor Scott Fitzwilliams. “These repairs and improvements will ensure that we continue to provide a world-class visitor experience at this iconic Colorado location for decades to come.”

Proposed work includes reengineering six of the trail’s seven bridges to better accommodate high water and debris flows. Two of the bridges would also be slightly relocated to crossing locations that provide better stream clearance. A boardwalk is proposed at Spouting Rock to reduce erosion and other impacts by guiding visitors on a defined pathway looping around the falls. Minor regrading and rock work, flood debris removal, and native seeding and planting would occur by hand along the trail to stabilize stream banks and reduce erosion.

At the trailhead, debris would be removed and the stream channel reconstructed to protect the adjacent paved recreation path, restrooms, and trailhead facilities. An accessible plaza with seating and shade would be constructed.

The Civilian Conservation Corps structure along the trail would be stabilized in consultation with the State Historic Preservation Office to ensure the longevity of this historic resource.

Work is expected to begin in September 2023 and continue through fall 2024. Trail closures could be necessary as work progresses.

Additional details about the proposal and information about how to comment is available at https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=63318. Comments will be most helpful if received by Feb. 25, 2023.

Reservations are required to visit Hanging Lake and are available through www.visitglenwood.com. Reservations for May 1 through June 30 will be available beginning 10 a.m. Feb. 15. Reservations for July 1 through Sept. 4 will be available beginning 10 a.m. March 15.



Jeff
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TetonHikingTrails.com

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