Wilderness Camping Planning Checklist

Months Ahead

• Decide who is going on the trip
• Decide when and where you are going
• Outline your hiking route
• Call Wilderness Office (970-586-1242) for likely snow, trail or campsite conditions at time of trip
• Do not plan too early. Be cautious regarding snow conditions when planning trips in April, May and June). See Wilderness Designated Campsite Details for most likely snow free campsite dates.
• Check permit regulations
• Order maps and guidebooks and compass
• Begin breaking in new boots
• Submit a Reservation Request Online. To submit a reservation request online, use the "Wilderness Campsite Reservation Request Application" link on the Wilderness Camping Page. This link is available for use from March 1 at 8:00 am Mountain Time through October 28 of each year.

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Three Weeks Ahead

• Confirm group gear with hiking partners
• Go over checklist of backpacking gear
• Make sure your gear works and replace or repair
• Plan your menu

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One to Two Weeks Ahead

• Buy and repackage food

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Days Before

• Pack gear, checking each piece off list as it enters the pack
• Verify departure plans with hiking partners
• Give a copy of itinerary and return time to a friend or relative

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Day of Trip

• Recheck gear when you meet with your group
• Stop at Wilderness Office for permit and current wilderness information
• Permit cannot be issued without license plate number(s)
• Put car keys in safe place and give a duplicate to your hiking companion
• Head for wilderness and have a great time

Summer Gear Checklist....................Winter Gear Checklist