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Colorado

I’ve been lucky enough to visit 32 countries on six continents, but Colorado is my home.

The soaring mountains feel like gentle giants enveloping me in a hug. The sun is always snuggly warm. And I never have to run on pavement.

I absolutely love living here! And I I hope my posts help you enjoy yourself and also keep you safe in our beautiful mountains.

PLEASE DON’T be that tourist who destroys what nature works hard to create. We all respect these mountain rules, and for your safety request that you please follow them, too. Thanks!

Respect everything you see, and keep a safe distance away. You may encounter elk, deer, bear, coyotes, foxes, mountain lions, bobcats, marmots, moose, or other wild animals on your adventures. Keep your distance, and try not to disturb them in their home. Just know that getting too close for a selfie or sharing your lunch with them might end up with a very expensive trip on Flight for Life.

Do not chase wildlife. This includes your dog and children, too. Please keep them on leash and to be respectful. Wildlife is wild. Besides, we all have phones. Someone will see you abusing the wildlife, and your 10 minutes of fame will be a “what NOT to do.”

Do not pick the flowers. I get it. I have kids, too. They want to pick a bouquet for their favorite mama. But please teach them to leave no trace, and take nothing. Play Find the ABC’s in Nature game instead. I see so many discarded picked flowers slowly dying on the trails. We have a very short growing season, and the trees, plants, and flowers have to work super hard to bloom. Please let them have their days in the sun!

Stay on trail. Erosion is a big thing here. Don’t make it worse.

MORE TIPS FOR YOU

• Wear sunscreen. In Denver, the sun is a mile closer to you. In the mountains, it’s even closer. This makes a huge difference, and your delicate skin will burn faster.

• Stay hydrated. It’s desert dry here. You may not know you’re sweating because it will evaporate, and you will dehydrate faster. And evaporation rates are even higher at higher altitudes. Avoid those extra wrinkles and drink lots of water. And if you’re hiking, plan to drink 2-4 cups of water per hour, depending on altitude, intensity, and temperature. Nalgene are lightweight, or if you will be near streams, you can use a filtration system.

• Bring extra layers. It can be blistering hot in the sun on a July day, but then below freezing up in the mountains on that same day. Always bring a warm, water-resistant layer. It has saved lives. And bonus points if your layer has a hood and long sleeves to cover your hands. The wind can be bone-chilling C-O-L-D, even in July.

• KNOW YOUR LIMITS. If you don’t live or usually exercise at altitude, assume whatever you’re planning may take you 50-100% longer. Running or hiking 8 miles at 100 feet of altitude is completely different than 8 miles at 9000 feet of altitude. Again, avoid that expensive Flight for Life or Alpine Rescue, and don’t overdo. Also, many hikes above 9000 feet may still be covered in snow or have impassable snowdrifts even into late July. Check your route before you go.

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