If you plan to hike there are a
few things you need to know:
Streams and lakes can harbor Giardia
lamblia, an organism that attacks the digestive tract. Don't
drink water unless you filter or boil it. At high elevations,
food waste does not biodegrade. leave no trace. Stay on trails
and walk on rocks or snow to protect vegetation; don't pick
wildflowers. Electrical storms above timberline can be deadly.
Avoid them by hiking in the morning, because storms usually
begin in the afternoon. June or July through September are the
best times to hike.
Also here is a list of essentials to
bring:
Map and compass
Sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent
Extra shoes if crossing streams
Waterproof matches, signal mirror, pocket
knife, first-aid kit and flashlight
Water repellent jacket (If you are hiking
in the fall or at very high elevation, bring a wool hat, gloves
and sweater)
High energy snacks
Litter bag
If you want some trail information
may we suggest:
The New Summit Hiker and Ski Touring
Guide, longtime local Mary Ellen Gilligand details trails that
lead explorers to mining town ruins, aspen groves, wildflower
patches, waterfalls, lakes and streams. She rates hikes by
difficulty and points out ones suited for kids.
Also, every Monday during hiking season,
Gilligand posts the week's best trail for flowers, waterfalls,
weather or wildlife viewing at
www.alpenrosepress.com.
Fall Colors: One trip we can
recommend is:
Boreas Pass Road from Breckenridge. As the
road climbs, it turns to dirt and winds its way past the old
rail line and through stunning aspen groves. Stop at the Section
House museum at the top and go far an extra-high elevation hike.
Once you get your wind there is the Barney Ford trail that you
can catch off High Street and Washington and it takes you up to
the hill off of Baldy Road.