Simple ways to stay safer on trails this summer

Summertime is upon us, and for many Coloradoans, that means appreciating the beauty of our mountain trails. Want to enjoy the outdoors with greater confidence and awareness? Here are a few simple ways to enhance your safety while enjoying all that Colorado has to offer.

1) Let someone know where you're heading.

This isn't assuming the worst will happen, it's preparing for something unexpected. We might encounter car trouble, a storm could come up, or an injury might slow our return. Give a trusted friend, parent or someone who would notice your absence the name of the trailhead you're starting at and an approximate time of return. If you're not back as expected, this provides a much clearer place to start searching than a vast area like Rocky Mountain National Park.

2) Know your route.

We don't need to know every turn on our chosen trail, but having a general idea where we're going is helpful. Stay on the trail, especially if you are alone. Taking a "shortcut" is typically discouraged for erosion, and can quickly lead to confusion and getting lost. I've suffered multiple misadventures by losing the trail. They all ended with a safe return to the trailhead, but it certainly raised my blood pressure. We are much more likely to encounter people who could lend a hand if we stay on an established trail.

If you know you're not hiking the whole trail, plan your turnaround time so you can return to the trailhead before dusk. If thunderstorms are an issue, start your hike early enough to avoid storms that typically roll in during the afternoon.

3) Be present in your surroundings.

We're in the outdoors to enjoy the outdoors, right? Hiking or running with headphones on can make it hard to hear someone approaching from behind on a trail or an animal that could be a threat. It also keeps us from hearing the birds singing or the restful tumble of a mountain stream. If you must wear music, keep one headphone in and the other out to hear what needs to be heard.

4) Stay aware while taking photos.

I love trying to capture the outdoors on camera, but I can get so caught up in trying to get a great shot that I lose all awareness of what's happening around me. Survey the area before zooming in on that Columbine flower. And watch your footing as you're readjusting your shot - stepping off the trail in some spots could mean a dangerous fall.

5) Project confidence on the trail.

Walking with purpose and demonstrating awareness of our surroundings can increase awareness and help to deter unwanted attention. Maintain a safe space between other trail users, and avoid getting so lost in the moment that we aren't aware of what's happening around us.

6) Treat other hikers with the same respect and caution as you would with those off-trail.

Most hikers are doing the same thing we are - enjoying the great outdoors. While our risk of assault is much higher from someone we know, it's good practice to be aware of who is around us. When approaching another hiker, making quick eye contact along with a polite greeting lets them know we're paying attention. Likewise, if we are approaching someone from behind, a verbal greeting like, "Coming up behind you," is always appreciated, especially if you are approaching them quickly.

If someone is approaching from behind, give a quick glance back so they know you are aware of them. If you feel uncomfortable with their proximity but they seem safe, use your voice early. Consider letting them pass by stepping off trail (especially when other people are present) with a simple phrase like, "Feel free to pass me." If that doesn't do the trick, try something like, "Please give me space." There is plenty of that in the mountains, and if someone doesn't respect your request for more space, that might be a sign to create more distance or leave the area. Trust your gut. You may have to abandon this hike by switching directions and heading back down the trailhead (particularly if you can follow a group from a short distance). If you are uncomfortable asserting your needs, practice at home. As silly as it may sound, assertiveness is a skill that can be practiced.

7) Purchase a personal safety alarm and be sure you can access it easily.

There are many inexpensive options online and in outdoor stores. A loud alarm can attract attention or potentially scare off a would be attacker. My husband loves to hike, and I asked him to clip one to his daypack to scare wild animals away. They're light, cannot be used against you, and most are extremely loud. Just be sure to clip it where you can easily access it - a belt loop or something you can reach quickly on your day pack are nice options.

8) Always carry water, snacks and clothing to cover weather changes.

Hiking at altitude can quickly dehydrate even seasoned athletes, so carry plenty of water or a filter to ensure adequate hydration. High protein snacks that include fat and sugar will help to sustain energy on longer hikes. Weather in the mountains can change in a heartbeat. Bring layers, rain gear and a hat to stay warm and dry in case temperatures drop or bad weather rolls in unexpectedly.

We hope these tips will help increase awareness, confidence and options as you enjoy all that the Colorado outdoors has to offer. Happy trails!