Though the summer hiking season is slowly coming to an end, it just means the beginning of the fall hiking season. People will be escaping into the mountains to experience the fall colors and crisp air, and the trails will be well-loved. We’ve talked about the benefits of hiking for three blogs now, and we figured we’d better touch on how to do it safely!

The thing is, no hiker steps onto a trail expecting to get lost, injured, or stranded. Hikers all know where they’re going; they know they have enough water; they know the weather is going to be fine. However, the mountains don’t have to agree with that. Mountains and weather do whatever they want, and it’s the hiker’s responsibility to prepare for the risks and make wise decisions during hikes. There’s good news: The Porches of Steamboat team is here to help! Read on for some great tips!

Know Where You’re Going

• … and we mean exactly where you’re going. Having only a general direction is the fastest way to hike into trouble. Take the time to sit down and plan out your adventure. That being said, if you need to improvise mid-hike, make sure you’re equipped with a map or guidebook so you can get back. We also recommend bringing a compass. Do not depend on your phone; you may not be able to get service or connect to the GPS.

Pay Attention

• The Rocky Mountains are full of striking features. Take note of them as you walk past! That way, if you’re retracing your steps, you’ll be able to confirm that you’re going in the right direction. Make sure you keep an eye on the sky, too. You should check the weather before you go, but even if the report is all sunny skies, the weather does whatever it wants, and in the mountains, it can go from warm sun to lightning danger in about ten minutes.

Be Conservative

• Be honest about your experience and fitness level as you plan your hike. A long hike will be miserable if you haven’t exercised recently, and you should never go off on your own if you don’t have experience dealing with emergencies by yourself. Even if you’re hiking with a group of people, make sure somebody back at the base knows where you’re going, what you’re wearing, and when you expect to be back. If the unexpected happens, you’ll be grateful someone knows where to send a search party.

The Porches of Steamboat have been the premier lodgings in Steamboat Springs for years. Our intimate community of vacation homes for sale offers convenience, luxury, and accessibility year-round. We offer fractional, half, and whole ownership of our gorgeous properties. No matter which option works best for you, you’re guaranteed several weeks of having a beautiful house to yourself. Our homes are perfect for family reunions, romantic getaways, and groups of friends escaping the daily grind. Whether you’re obsessed with skiing or you can’t get enough downhill biking, our properties are the perfect home bases. Contact our friendly staff for more information today! We can’t wait to get to know you.