Unforgettable Summer: Camping and Hiking In the Rocky Mountains

July in the Rockies is a dream. Crisp mountain air, long sleeves and beanies, alpine lakes, and afternoon thunderstorms all collide to create the perfect weather conditions for a summer adventure. I've been lucky enough this summer to have spent most of July in Colorado. First exploring Rocky Mountain National Park and then a backpacking trip outside of Boulder. It was a much-needed break from the extreme Texas heat and a fantastic location for a summer road trip. You might be surprised to learn I haven't actually spent much time exploring Colorado, especially since I've spent so many years living in and exploring the surrounding states. Colorado has primarily been the state I've driven through to get where I'm going but this summer has forever changed that!

Pulling up to my campsite in Rocky Mountain National Park that first day, I knew this trip was going to be better than I had anticipated. The temperature was cool enough for me to break out my smartwool layers and I had just enought time to get the awning set up before a late afternoon storm came rolling through. No high winds or dangerous lightning, just a light rain and rumbles off in the distance. It was perfect, so I set up my camp chair and made some coffee. This is one of my top three favorite outdoor things.

Life just kept getting better from there. First thing the next morning, I came across a herd of elk just hanging out on the side of the road and in no way bothered by my presence. As I climbed in elevation, the temperature continued to drop, and before I knew it, I was pulling on my down coat to stay warm. I know this probably isn't exciting for most people, but when you've lived most of your life in Texas, putting on a coat in July is nothing short of magic. I didn't have much of a plan for my time in the park. If I saw something interesting, I stopped and explored. If a trailhead wasn't too busy, I would pull in and hike a while. I learned about the native cutthroat trout and its history in the park. I stopped at historic cabins and learned about the Native American tribes who called this land home long before settlers ever dreamed of building their cabins. It was all beautiful.

So I guess what I'm trying to say in all of this is, if you haven't been to Colorado in the summer, go now. Pull out your calendar and make a plan. The landscape, the wildlife, and the weather are all something to behold, enjoy, and marvel at. Colorado, it's a real good idea and a place I will continue to explore All The Outdoor Things I love.

In the next edition of All The Outdoor Things, I'll share my experience hiking 32 miles in the Fjällräven Classic!