Prepare for your Tour
What We Provide
- Water & Water Bottle. Hydration is important here in Colorado, where our humidity can be very low at times. We provide a durable, reusable, BPA free water bottle to each of our guests that is also a momento from the trip that is yours to keep. Tour guests receive 16 oz bottles, a very handy size. We bring along plenty of water for refills.
- Snacks and Food. All of our tours include an array of snacks including various bars, nuts, crackers, chips, and cookies. We also bring a cooler of soft drinks. Full day tours will include a packed or lunch. We are happy to accommodate any dietary needs, just let us know!
- First Aid Kit. The guide will carry a complete first aid kit. Guides are certified in First Aid & CPR.
- Pick Up/Drop Off at your lodging. Unless other arrangements work better, we will pick up and drop off your group within the Estes Valley, approximately a five mile radius from downtown Estes Park. If you are traveling from outside that radius, we can arrange to meet at the Estes Park Visitor Center, where parking is free.
Hydration is crucial in the mountains! High altitude and strong UV exposure requires that we hydrate more than at lower elevations.
What to Bring
- Comfortable shoes that are appropriate for walking
- Extra jacket or clothing for chilly temperatures
- Sunscreen & Hat with brim (baseball cap, hiking hat)
- Camera/Phone
National Park Entry
Since our tour takes place in Rocky Mountain National Park, your group will need to either purchase or show an already purchased entrance fee receipt. Here are the current RMNP fees. You will not require a reservation to enter RMNP while touring with us, but you will still need to purchase an entrance pass or show an entrance fee receipt.
Weather
Mountain weather is fickle and varies greatly, even in the span of one day. We could encounter frost in the morning and warmer temperatures as the day proceeds. Wind is prevalent at higher altitudes and can make even a warm sunny day seem chilly. Temperature can fluctuate rapidly! It is wise to bring enough clothing to account for the varying weather conditions. Having a warm jacket is a good idea, even when the weather forecast indicates warm temperatures in the summer months.
Altitude
The Town of Estes Park sits at 7522' above sea level. The Alpine Visitor Center, a popular destination in Rocky Mountain National Park, is at 11,796' above sea level. Adjusting to high altitude is different for everyone.
Here is a great article from Estes Park Health about knowing the signs of altitude sickness.
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