Hiking alone provides both independence and risk. A free presentation at the Estes Valley Library on Monday, March 9, will help outdoor enthusiasts better understand how to prepare for solo adventures in Rocky Mountain National Park and beyond.
The program, “Solo Hiking Tips and Safety,” will take place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the library, 335 E. Elkhorn Ave. The event is presented by the Rocky Mountain Conservancy and will focus on practical strategies for planning and decision-making when hiking alone.
Katie Colson, education coordinator for the Rocky Mountain Conservancy, notes the program was developed in response to a growing interest in solo hiking among visitors and residents alike.
“While the recent mountain lion attack near Crosier Mountain has understandably heightened awareness around hiking safety, this program has been in development since November,” Colson said. “In my role leading hikes and snowshoe programs in the park, I frequently have conversations with participants about solo hiking. Many people are curious about venturing alone but feel uncertain.”
The Rocky Mountain Conservancy’s mission centers on education, stewardship, and strengthening connections to Rocky Mountain National Park. Colson says education can play an important role in helping people feel confident navigating the outdoors responsibly.
“My goal with this program is not to convince anyone they should hike solo, but to provide practical tools and frameworks so individuals can make informed, thoughtful risk management decisions that align with their abilities and comfort levels,” Colson said. “When we reduce uncertainty through education, we help remove barriers that might otherwise keep people from experiencing the park.”
The presentation will cover a range of practical topics, including selecting routes that match a hiker’s skill level, estimating pace and travel time, and using GPS or communication devices in case of an emergency. Participants will also learn about sharing trip plans with trusted contacts, packing essential gear, and managing unexpected challenges on the trail.
Although wildlife encounters often dominate hikers’ fears, Colson says they are not the most common source of risk.
“Wildlife encounters are often the biggest fear people mention,” Colson said. “While wildlife awareness is important, statistically it’s not the most common risk hikers face. A more significant factor is understanding your own abilities and continuously making sound risk management decisions throughout the hike.”
Colson points out that many of the principles discussed in the program apply wherever people hike. However, traveling alone in Rocky Mountain National Park brings additional factors to consider.
“Many principles of solo hiking apply anywhere, such as preparation, route planning, and self-awareness,” Colson said. “However, in Rocky Mountain National Park, hikers can factor trail density and visitation patterns into their risk management decisions. Weather volatility, elevation, and rapidly changing conditions in the Rockies also require extra attention when traveling alone.”
For Colson, solo hiking can offer a different way of experiencing the landscape.
“Solo hiking offers a very different experience than hiking with friends,” she said. “I often find myself more attuned to my surroundings, noticing subtle sounds, light changes, and wildlife activity.”
One of her most memorable solo hikes took place a few summers ago on a trip to Crystal Lakes.
“The stillness and silence felt incredibly serene,” Colson said. “I’m not sure I would have noticed that depth of quiet if I had been in conversation with someone else.”
While the presentation will briefly touch on decision-making frameworks, such as recognizing when to turn around, reassess conditions, or call for help, Colson says the primary focus will remain on preparation and planning.
“Yes, we will briefly discuss decision-making frameworks like recognizing when to turn around, reassess, or call for help,” she said, “but much of the presentation focuses on practical tools for planning and preparation.”
The program will conclude with time for audience questions. Colson hopes attendees leave feeling better equipped to make thoughtful choices in the backcountry.
“I hope attendees leave feeling more equipped with additional tools in their “tool belt” for planning and decision-making,” Colson said. “The goal isn’t to eliminate risk (that would be impossible) but to help people engage with it thoughtfully.”
You must be logged in to post a comment.