The following information is intended to help you prepare for your summer horseback pack trip in the mountains of Colorado. The equipment lists are not necessarily complete nor is all of the equipment listed absolutely necessary.

CLOTHING – You should be prepared for cold temperatures, often below freezing in the early mornings and evenings. You should also be prepared for rain. However, our weather is usually very sunny, warm, and dry during midday. It is very important that you use the layer method of dressing. That means using several layers of clothing for warmth instead of depending on one heavy garment. Then, take off or put on more clothing layers to meet the changing weather conditions. T shirts, long underwear, sweat shirts, long sleeve shirts, sweaters, and vests make good undergarments. Any variety of jackets can be used for outerwear. The outer layer should help shed moisture, but all layers must breathe. Wear comfortable long pants. A light rain poncho or slicker is mandatory. Light comfortable gloves will probably be appreciated. Bring a couple of changes of comfortable heavy duty socks. Maybe one warm pair (SmartWool). Boots should be comfortable, broken in, well oiled or waterproofed, and cover above your ankles. A lighter pair of hiking boots or athletic shoes may be useful around camp after riding. Be prepared, but don’t bring too many extra clothes. Generally one change of clothing is enough. I recommend using a small soft day pack that can be hung on the saddlehorn and worn on your back to carry lunch, water, sun screen, camera, film, etc. and to pack clothing shed during the day.

SOME PRINCIPLES AND IDEAS TO KEEP IN MIND

1. If you don’t like the weather in Colorado, wait twenty minutes. It will change.
2. Only fools and strangers predict weather in Colorado.

Go prepared on a pack trip or trail ride. You can’t run to the car to get out of the rain or to get a coat. Keep a coat and rain gear where you can get to them during the day – not on a pack horse – not at camp - regardless of how nice the weather is when you leave.

B. Our sun is much more intense at high altitudes. Don’t get sunburned! Sun glasses, sun screen lotion, hat and long sleeves.

C. Our air is extremely dry. Chapstick is a must, and body lotion is advised. Don’t dehydrate! Drink plenty of fluids. You may never sweat, but you will be losing body moisture faster than you realize.

D. High altitude adversely affects some people. However, it is rarely very serious. Stay hydrated, control your body temperature, and rest (don’t overdo) are important precautions. Bring headache medicine (sinus headache formulas seem to help), and something for upset stomach. There is a prescription drug called Diamox that you may want to talk to your MD about if you have had past problems and are concerned. It should be started before arriving in Colorado if you decide it is necessary.

EQUIPMENT AND PERSONAL GEAR (Items marked * are mandatory or highly recommended)

*First Aid Kit – Including personal medications, pain medication, decongestant, upset stomach/diarrhea medication, treatment for wounds, blisters, minor burns, etc. (We will have a First Aid Kit in camp for larger wounds, sprains, etc.)
Misc. – You may want to bring a reading book, pen/pencil, notebook, trail & nature guides, gum, favorite snack items, soda, etc.
Equipment Limits: Please try to limit your gear to one army size duffel bag (or equivalent) and a sleeping bag. Confine your gear to the duffel bag and avoid bringing numerous small separate bags and packages. Make sure that bottles and other breakables are protected and padded in your duffel or sleeping bag.

FISHING: Regulations may be obtained at license outlets or check the Division Of Wildlife website at www.wildlife.state.co.us.
We will send a “Pack Trip Fishing Information” sheet at your request.