A realistic guide to backpacking in Colorado this summer

Backcountry advice and photos by Malena Larsen

Whether heading out for a weekend or embarking on a bucket-list thru-hike, preparing for a backpacking trip can feel as daunting as climbing a mountain. Sometimes the biggest hurdle of your first backpacking adventure is simply making the decision to take that first step.

I am far from a backpacking expert, but I’ve learned a lot from my mistakes and experiences during my 500-mile thru-hike of the Colorado Trail. So, I’m sharing some honest advice for your first taste of trail life. The best way to figure out what works for you is to get out there and experiment. Consider this a starting point, not the gospel.

THE 10 ESSENTIALS (AND THEN SOME)

Ultralight this, ultralight that – social media influencers touting sponsored content and outdoor junkies with booming budgets love to boast about the next lightest thing. This mindset can cause sticker shock and makes it seem like there’s a pricey barrier to backpacking. Cut out the noise, get what you can afford, use what’s comfortable, and just give it a try. Remember, you can always upgrade gear down the line!

When it comes to hiking and backpacking, you will often hear about “The 10 Essentials.” This is the foundational framework for what you absolutely need when you hit the trail. I’ve tweaked the classic list a bit, adding in everything I carried during my first thru-hike.

1. Navigation: A multi-faceted approach

For satellite communication, I used the Garmin GPSMAP 67i. This device provided two-way satellite communication, which allowed me to check in with loved ones. It also provided weather updates and has an SOS feature in case of an emergency.

Additionally, I heavily relied on the FarOut app, particularly the Colorado Trail map. It detailed information such as water sources, spots to camp and resupply points. This app, combined with the Colorado Trail Guidebook, were indispensable daily tools for me.

2. Headlamp: Keep it light

I used the Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp. No complaints here.

3. Sun Protection: (Don’t) burn, baby, burn

I wore a hat, sunglasses, a sun shirt, and plenty of sunscreen. Don’t forget your ears. My baseball cap didn’t cover my ears and I got a sunburn that blistered.

4. First Aid & Toiletries: Backpacking self-care

Don’t skimp on your first aid kit! Mine included the basics: bandages, gauze, tape, antiseptic wipes, ointment and safety pins. For blister prevention, I swore by medical moleskin and Band-Aid Seal Blister Cushions – they saved my feet. Bring pain relievers, antihistamines, antidiarrheal medication and your prescriptions.

I brought a toothbrush (no, I didn’t cut the handle off), toothpaste, nail clipper, deodorant (this was only for resupply days as there was no covering up my smell while I was on the trail), sunscreen, lip balm and a small hairbrush.

5. Repair Kit: Accidents happen

I packed a multitool and Tenacious Tape Repair Tape. I used the repair tape to mend my socks back together after I thought I could use trail running socks for backpacking.

That being said, make sure you have actual hiking socks for your excursion. Quality hiking socks provide cushioning, moisture-wicking, and durability, significantly reducing the risk of blisters and discomfort. My trail running socks simply didn’t hold up to the rigorous days of backpacking.

6. Fire: Keep it simple

A basic, disposable lighter did the trick.

7. Shelter: Home away from home

I used the Flash Air 2 Tent. Although the Colorado Trail was a solo endeavor, this is the tent my fiance and I use on our backpacking trips. Although the two-person tent made my pack a bit heavier, it was nice having plenty of room for my backpack next to me overnight.

8. Food: Your mobile menu

On the trail, calories are king. But so is palatability. Don’t pack food you wouldn’t normally enjoy, thinking hunger will force you to eat it. Trust me, it won’t. Focus on calorie-dense options you genuinely like. Pre-portion meals into resealable bags or use single-serving packets.

To cook my food, I brought the Jetboil Flash Cooking System, a foldable set of utensils, and a mug that doubled as a bowl.

Make sure you have proper food storage to protect against wildlife. Previously, I’ve used both the BV450 Jaunt Bear Canister and the 10 Liter Ursack Major Bear Sack. Make sure you check specific conditions and regulations of the area you will be backpacking.

9. Water: Hydration and filtration

I didn’t do a great job staying hydrated on the Colorado Trail, which impacted my appetite, causing me to lose a substantial amount of weight. Make staying hydrated a top priority!

I used two 1-liter Smartwater bottles; one for dirty water and one for clean. For filtration, the Sawyer Squeeze Filtration system screwed onto the bottles. I highly recommend this system—it’s lightweight and easy to use. I also carried Potable Aqua Iodine and Taste-Neutralizer Tablets as backup. I only used these tablets once, when encountering water near cows.

10. Clothes: Dress like an onion (in layers and a little stinky)

In addition to what I wore hiking every day, I packed base layers for sleeping, a puffy jacket for frigid nights, and a rain jacket. I also brought a spare sports bra, underwear, camp sandals, and an extra pair of quality hiking socks. For resupply days, I brought shorts and a t-shirt.

11. Charging: Staying plugged in

I bought a portable charger power bank from Amazon. I used this to charge my satellite phone, cell phone, and Garmin watch. Make sure you have all of the necessary cables. Whenever I stopped into town, I made sure all of my gadgets (including the battery block) were fully charged before getting back on the trail.

12. Entertainment: Creature comforts

If I haven’t lost the ultralight crowd already, I’m about to. I brought a pen, a small Moleskine Notebook and a book. Every resupply town I visited, I traded in my book for a new read. All of these items undoubtedly added a substantial amount of weight, but every night after a long day of hiking I looked forward to writing in my journal and reading a few chapters before dozing off.

If something makes you more comfortable or makes your time on the trail more enjoyable, bring it!

13. Protection: Peace of mind

I brought bear spray, despite countless people telling me it was unnecessary. However, it made me feel secure.

I’VE GOT ALL THE STUFF. NOW WHERE DO I PUT IT?

Luckily for my packing habits, I had a pretty hefty backpack. I used the Gregory Deva 70. I received this as a gift and it ended up working great! However, receiving a backpack as a gift can be risky business as there are a handful of considerations to make.

First, focus on the fit. Torso length, not height, determines proper fit. To measure your torso length, locate that prominent bump at the base of your neck and the top of your hip bones. The distance between these two points is your torso length. If this process feels overwhelming or confusing, consider getting a professional fitting at an outdoor store.

Next, you need to know your trip length and gear volume. Consider a 30- to 50-liter pack for a weekend trip and something over 50 for longer excursions.

Once you know what size pack you need, consider a few features that are requirements for you. Personally, the hip belt pockets are a must for easy access to snacks. Ask yourself: Does this pack have a rain cover? Is it compatible with my hydration system? Do I want a removable daypack?

WARY ABOUT THE WEATHER

Colorado’s summer weather is unpredictable and can shift between bright sunshine, torrential rain, thunderstorms, and even hail within minutes. The thought of ominous weather made me anxious during my month on the Colorado Trail. Beyond just feeling uncomfortable after being stuck in the rain, being caught above treeline in a storm can be dangerous as lightning is a significant threat at high altitudes.

It’s important to keep an eye on the weather. If you see a storm approaching, do not ascend; instead, seek a safe, low-lying area. Additionally, if a thunderstorm occurs while you’re already at elevation, do your best to descend from high points like ridges or peaks as quickly and safely as possible.

SETTING UP CAMP

Choosing the right campsite can make or break your night’s sleep. Look for level ground to prevent you from sliding to one side of your tent. Prioritize a spot away from water sources, like streams or lakes, to minimize condensation inside your tent. Be mindful of overhead hazards, such as dead branches or unstable trees. Lastly, if you can, select a spot that provides some wind protection through natural barriers like dense forests or rock outcroppings.

Phew! That was a lot of information. I understand that backpacking can be intimidating, but it’s a rewarding experience that delivers incredible views, opportunities for self discovery, and physical pursuits. It’s a unique chance to connect deeply with nature and yourself. So, why not take that first step?