What should I pack for a hike in Rocky Mountain National Park?

If you are going hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park, it is very important that you carry the right things with you. Things can go wrong and when that happens, you want to be sure that you are properly prepared. It's possible to bring everything you need for such emergencies without loading yourself up with too much stuff. Learn about what you should and shouldn't pack for a day hike in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
2:25 What are the ten essentials?
3:07 What food should I bring?
4:01 How much water do I need?
5:02 What about fires?
5:54 How will I fix it?
6:43 What about first aid?
7:25 Are jackets really necessary?
8:29 Do I really need a headlamp?
9:17 Am I prepared for the Colorado sun?
9:55 Why do I need to worry about shelter?
10:32 What's needed for navigation?
11:21 What extras should I bring?
13:25 Do I need bear spray?
13:58 The Golden Rule of Hiking
14:30 Conclusion
🧭 Equipment Mentioned in Video
• Steri Pen: tinyurl.com/y2m75k45
• Headlamps: www.rei.com/search?q=headlamp
• Emergency Bivy Sack: tinyurl.com/564zdrk4
• Map of Rocky Mountain National Park: www.rockymountainnationalpark...
• Compass: www.rei.com/search?q=compass
• Garmin In-Reach: www.rei.com/search?q=garmin+i...
LEARN ABOUT ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK:
🌲Learn everything you want to know about Rocky Mountain National Park at my website: www.RockyMountainNationalPark...
🥾Get a copy of my highly acclaimed hiking guide: "Hiking Rocky Mountain National Park: The Essential Guide". www.rockytrailpress.com/produ...
ABOUT ME:
📸 My photos of Rocky Mountain National Park can be found at: www.ImagesofRMNP.com
📖 All of my books, calendars and notecards can be found at: www.RockyTrailPress.com
🌐 My personal website is: www.ErikStensland.com
🎨 My gallery in Estes Park is located at: 203 Park Lane. For times and details visit: www.imagesofrmnp.com/page/Est...
📺 I have just launched a second KZbin channel. You can find it at: / @divebeneaththesurface
NOTES:
🎥 All filming in Rocky Mountain National Park was done with a commercial filming license obtained through the National Park Service.

[@PaulBeiser]

Great list, tuned for RMNP! Glad you also talked about the Golden Rule, thanks!

[@ErikStensland]

You bet Paul! People tend to forget that simple rule, resulting in huge and expensive searches, as well as long and terrifying waits in the wilderness that could be easily avoided.

[@Vinaigre]

Great information for any hikers or anyone starting out. I've never been to RMNP despite living in southern CO so I think i'll check it out this year.

[@capturingnaturewithsandip]

Awesome and so lovely scenic beauty. Thanks for sharing.

[@ErikStensland]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@osdek]

Such a great overview of very helpful information! I'll admit I've had a tendency over the years of leaving some of the items you referenced out of my pack (or double-water bottled hip pack) but you shared some compelling reasons to re-think that strategy. I especially like your recommendation to have a light-weight puffy jacket packed away just in case, even during the warmer months. They do pack down nicely and weigh just ounces. Your book, Hiking Rocky Mountain National Park, is so thoughtfully organized and has become my favorite reference to consider hikes I haven't yet done. Well done and thanks again!

[@ErikStensland]

So glad it helped you rethink your approach. These simple things can make such a difference when things go wrong.

[@ScottBacon]

Wonderful overview of the 10 essentials! Perfect for all hikers, especially in Colorado. Well done!!

[@ErikStensland]

Thanks Scott!

[@sherryb4918]

Fantastic information! Thanks for helping us pack our backpack. Planning some hikes for next week as we are in Estes.

[@blivieriphoto]

Excellent video! I didn’t know there were no grizzlies the park. Definitely good to know. And I liked the nudge to Nature First there on the water bottle 😊.

[@ErikStensland]

Glad it was helpful! Good catch on the Nature First sticker.