15 tips for families traveling to Colorado
It’s no doubt Colorado is a popular destination for traveling families thanks to the ample opportunities statewide for outdoor recreation. However, Colorado is a state that’s a bit atypical compared to others around the country. Here are 15 things that visiting families should know to ensure a successful trip.
Family enjoying hiking during the COVID-19 pandemic Photo Credit: dmphoto (iStock)
1. Layers, layers, layers
Families traveling to Colorado at any time of the year should pack layers of long sleeves, pants, and socks to keep comfortable amid the state’s changing weather. Pack heavier layers like fleece liners if visiting during the colder months. An extra sweater or outer shell jacket might be the difference between a great day outside or an uncomfortable adventure that gets cut short, or worse. Even during the warm, sunny days, temperatures tend to dip low after the sun goes down, making it best to carry an extra layer wherever you go. Colorado is also notorious for weather that changes throughout the day, making it essential to always pack for a little bit of rain during spring and summer months.
Photo Credit: dmphoto (iStock).
Altitude (Photo) Credit Mvltcelik (iStock)
2. Watch for signs of altitude sickness
Each person reacts to elevation change differently, so it’s important to listen to your body. Keep in mind that a half-hour drive can result in thousands of feet in elevation change, which could prompt a condition called altitude sickness. A headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath are only some of the symptoms affiliated with altitude sickness and when these set in, it’s important to react quickly. The best thing to do if these symptoms occur is to descend in elevation. Consult a medical professional for more information on altitude sickness and how to prevent this condition prior to a visit.
Photo Credit: Mvltcelik (iStock).
Colorado (Photo) Credit marekuliasz (iStock)
3. Know your route
Flying into Denver International Airport? Driving from out-of-state? Once you cross the Colorado stateline, know where to go next. Whether your first stop is the hotel or Rocky Mountain National Park, knowing an exact route to your planned destinations will save you precious time. Many seem to assume that Denver is right at the base of Colorado’s best mountains, though that’s not the case. Roughly 1.5 hours from some of the most popular skiing spots, those landing in the Mile High City should be prepared for a potentially snowy and dangerous drive to their destination. Always check travel conditions from the Colorado Department of Transportation, follow local chain laws, and plan for extra drive time. On mountain roads, a 65-mile drive can quickly turn into an hours-long trip due to traffic, road closures, hazardous driving conditions, and other factors.
Photo Credit: marekuliasz (iStock).
ROAD ICY SLOW DOWN Interstate 70 Road Sign Vail Colorado (Photo) Credit Willowpix (iStock)
4. Always have a 'Plan B'
The changes in weather can significantly impact plans during a family trip to Colorado. If you don’t have the right clothing, gear, or rental car to get you through the sometimes harsh conditions in Colorado, you might need to go with Plan B. If initial plans included a summer hike through the mountains or through exposed areas like Red Rocks Canyon in Colorado Springs, always be prepared for weather-related factors that may result in canceling plans. During the winter, commonly traveled mountain passes, like Loveland Pass, Monarch Pass, and Interstate 70 can have road closures due to snowy conditions or car crashes that tack on hours of drive time. Plan ahead with alternate routes and destinations should your original plan hit a roadblock.
Photo Credit: Willowpix (iStock).
Crystal Mill (Photo) Credit Leslie James
5. Be prepared for rain or shine, and snow, wind, or lightning
Colorado is known to have dramatic changes in weather within minutes. Sometimes unexpected afternoon clouds can bring a blizzard, even if conditions were warm and clear at lunchtime. It’s best practice to have the gear on hand when adventuring in Colorado’s outdoors, including a rain jacket, water resistant pants, gloves, and a hat or beanie for everyone in the family. It’s also important to have an escape plan if conditions change while out in nature. And remember, always wear sunblock while outside in Colorado.
Photo Credit: Leslie James, OutThere Colorado.
Storm Clouds Over the Rockies (Photo) Credit RCarner (iStock)
6. Take the looming thunderstorm seriously
Picture the entire family on top of a mountain ridge with dark clouds in the distance. While many might think a faraway storm could take hours to travel, the mountains are actually major storm generators that bring about thunderstorms very quickly. Colorado is known to have afternoon storms, more common in late July through August, that create a serious threat of lightning. If the sky above darkens or thunder is heard in the distance while in Colorado’s outdoors, round up the family and get back to the car quickly. Hail is a serious threat to those caught outdoors during a storm, with some eastern Colorado counties among the most hail prone areas in the country.
Photo Credit: RCarner (iStock).
Moose (Photo) Credit Adam Springser (iStock)
7. Prepare to encounter potentially dangerous wildlife
Colorado’s great outdoors is filled with wild animals, some of which can be quite dangerous. Be sure to keep the whole family in sight while on the trail and keep your eyes peeled. Even if you encounter a rabbit, deer, or other typically non-threatening animal in Colorado’s wilderness, it’s best to keep your distance and respect the space between you and the animal. It’s also important to know what to do in the case that the family stumbles on a larger animal like a mountain lion, moose, or bear. Read more tips for wildlife encounters here. And watch out for rattlesnakes – their bite can be deadly.
Photo Credit: Adam Springer (iStock).
Campfire (Photo) Credit Brycen McCright
8. Think twice before sparking a campfire
Colorado set its largest wildfire record twice during the summer of 2020. Because of how dry Colorado’s terrain tends to be, it’s important to only start a campfire when it’s responsible to do so. Follow all local fire bans and if starting a fire is allowed, be sure to have water immediately accessible in case the campfire gets too large. Never leave the campfire unattended and be sure all the coals are completely out before leaving the area. It’s risky business starting a campfire in the middle of Colorado’s often dry forests. Consider not igniting the flames with these tips for camping without a campfire.
Photo Credit: Brycen McCright.
Leave No Trace (Photo) Credit Stephen Martin, OutThere Colorado
9. Follow the principles of Leave No Trace
The 7 principles of Leave No Trace should be followed by everyone in Colorado - visitors and residents, alike - to keep the delicate landscape in the most pristine condition possible. Plan ahead and be prepared. Always stay on the trail and use camping areas with minimal impact, pack out trash and waste. Do not pick up rocks, sticks, or wildflowers. Follow local restrictions and procedures if building a campfire. Leave wildlife alone and be considerate and respectful to other trail users. If visiting in the winter, different rules may apply – be aware of those, too.
Photo Credit: Stephen Martin, OutThere Colorado.
Independence Pass (Photo) Credit Brent_1 (iStock)
10. Know when to pull over on Colorado roads
Colorado’s mountain roads can be scary for the inexperienced and they’re also full of stunning photo opts that can cause some drivers to linger. Instead of stopping on the road or slowing down and interrupting traffic flow, pull over to let people pass and only stop in designated areas. Many Colorado mountain passes, such as Monarch Pass, do not allow for parking on the shoulder due to avalanche and rockfall risks. Stay in the farthest right lane on Colorado routes unless passing slower vehicles - it’s Colorado law.
Photo Credit: Brent_1 (iStock).
Colorado Dog (Photo) Credit Brycen McCright
11. Bringing the family dog? Colorado is mostly dog-friendly
Colorado is often considered an adventurous dog’s paradise, with endless hiking trails, cold mountain lakes for hot days, and many dog-friendly businesses. If visiting with your dog, ALWAYS clean up after your dog and know the local leash laws. It’s also important to realize that rules vary by town and establishment. While some areas are loose with their rules, some spots are quite strict – including a few of the most iconic places outside. For example, pets are only allowed at parking areas and along paved road in Rocky Mountain National Park. If the family dog might tag along on the trip to Colorado, be sure to research the local laws and restrictions regarding pets at each destination. And again, ALWAYS pick up that poop.
Photo Credit: Brycen McCright.
Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum (Photo) Credit AndreyKrav (iStock)
12. Check out Colorado’s lesser known museums
Remember the “Plan B” tip mentioned earlier? Consider adding one of the many museums in Colorado to that plan as a visit to one of these destinations isn’t dependent on weather. Colorado’s museums are great for families seeking an indoor adventure. Some options include the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum (pictured), Breckenridge’s Edwin Carter Discovery Center, Denver’s Downtown Aquarium, Crested Butte Museum, and the Trinidad Museum. Visiting these museums early in the trip is also a great way to learn about Colorado’s wildlife, environment, and history before setting out on the outdoor adventures where you’re likely to see these things in person.
Photo Credit: AndreyKrav (iStock).
Garden of the Gods (Photo) Credit Christian Murdock
13. Know what makes a hiking trail ‘family-friendly’
What really makes a hiking trail ‘family-friendly’? Length, steepness, exposure, and amenities, such as trailhead bathrooms, can all be important things to consider when picking the perfect hike. Check the county’s tourism website or an application like AllTrails for the appropriate hiking trail descriptions. Here’s a link to a few of our favorite family-friendly hikes.
Photo Credit: Christian Murdock, The Gazette.
Royal Gorge Zip Line Tours (Photo) Credit Ty Wilson
14. There’s more to Colorado than hiking
Don’t forget that Colorado offers plenty of activities aside from hiking. Take advantage of other natural wonders like hot springs suitable for families, rivers safe enough to float down or raft together, and places to even search for gold.
Royal Gorge Zipline. Photo Credit: OutThere Colorado Staff.
Rafting Tour (Photo) Courtesy Echo Canyon River Expeditions
15. Opt for a guided tour to try a new activity
There are many Coloradans whose day jobs are to share the love of the state with first-time visitors. If your family lacks the gear needed to go rock climbing or rafting or backpacking, opt for a local guide to show your family the ropes. Attractions like Cave of the Winds in Colorado Springs or the Royal Gorge Park in Cañon City offer guided via Ferrata rock climbing tours, which can be a great option for the adventurous family. Rafting tours are abundant along the Arkansas River between Buena Vista and Salida.
Photo courtesy Echo Canyon River Expeditions.