Spending a night under the stars by a warm fire is just one of the benefits you'll enjoy on your RV adventure to the Steamboat Lake area. Photo By Corey Kopischke
Touted as one of the best day hikes in the Steamboat area, the 11-mile Zirkle Circle loop provides stunning views of Gilpin Lake. Photo By Corey Kopischke
Pearl Lake, just north of Steamboat, does not allow powerboats, making it ideal for paddleboarding with great RV sites right on the lake. Photo By Corey Kopischke
July 4th is a great time to visit Steamboat Lake. Be sure to catch the huge fireworks display at nearby Steamboat Springs. Photo By Corey Kopischke
Take time to soak in the warm springs while you're at Steamboat Springs where full spa facilities abound. Photo By Noah Wetzel
Fish Creek Falls is a great day hike for RVer's camped at Steamboat Lake. Take a picnic lunch and your camera for a great afternoon on this scenic hike. Photo By Corey Kopischke
The Yampa River flows right through nearby Steamboat Springs offering great fly fishing opportunities as well as tubing and rafting adventures. Photo By Ross Purnell, Fly Fisherman
July 09, 2016
By Todd Smith
Colorado and the Rocky Mountains provide one of America's most scenic summer vacation spots with unparalleled scenery, great fishing and awesome camping opportunities. Whether you explore Colorado in an RV with the family , or head out on a backpacking trip with friends, you don't want to end up miles into the backcountry with some critical piece of gear missing.
Here are a few essentials those headed to for an adventure in Colorado or anywhere in the Rocky Mountain West will not want to forget.
The Yampa River flows right through nearby Steamboat Springs offering great fly fishing opportunities as well as tubing and rafting adventures. Photo By Ross Purnell, Fly Fisherman
Hydration
High altitude and dry air can quickly deplete essential liquids in your body. Bottom line is drink early and often all day long. A hydration pack is a great way to go and many pack offerings today are built with compartments that make slipping a hydration pouch in super easy. Start your day off by hydrating and stick with it all day long, you'll avoid the headaches and altitude sickness that can ruin a fun time in the Rockies and you'll be doing your body a big favor.
Sun Protection
A ball cap, sunglasses and a breathable, UV protective outer layer are essential for those headed outdoors to fish or hike. Plan on spending a day on the water boating or wading while fly fishing, add a Buff to your checklist to keep your neck and ears protected.
Boots
Even day hikers need adequate foot protection. Solid, supportive mid-weight hiking boots are must when clambering up rocky trails. While low-top models are fine for day hiking, those wishing to backpack in a few miles to camp out would be well served with high-top models that provide more support when carrying heavier loads. Opt for models that are waterproof and rugged enough to handle steep, rocky terrain.
For a complete list of essentials to make your great adventure even better, click here.