I don’t know about you but after this last round of snow here in southwest Colorado I’m so ready for summer and excited about the kickoff weekend. This weekend signifies the start of summer and more importantly a day of remembrance for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

There are a few things going on around here like the popular cycling event called the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic. The towns of Durango and Silverton are all abuzz over this annual event. It brings loads of people to town to participate and watch the events. One of my favorites is the criterium that happens right in downtown Durango.

I keep saying I’m going to train for this event since it seems like everyone I know participates at one time or another. It’s a tough ride. You leave Durango and head over to Silverton which gains over 5700′ in elevation over 50 miles. Yes, it’s gorgeous but grueling. I will do it one of these years!

If you’ve been a bit of a couch potato, it’s a good time to get those legs warmed up for hitting the harder trails once the snow clears and there are some good in town and low elevation hikes to get you started.

The weather here is supposed to be beautiful so all the more reason to come to this part of Colorado. While you’re here you can check out Animas Mountain Trail or maybe Shearer Creek Trail up on Missionary Ridge and some of the Horse Gulch trails. Check out my Southwest Hiking Trails pages for some ideas.

And just as a reminder since this is the start of summer and hiking season; remember to pack the essentials in your backpack.

1. Water-a good hydration pack is a necessity and is much easier than carrying a water bottle
2. Navigation-compass, gps and map
3. Sunglasses/Sunscreen-the sun is so intense here
4. Extra food and water-bring more than y0u think you’ll need. Lightweight energy bars are a smart choice.
5. Extra clothes-rain gear, warm layers. Temperatures can change drastically.
6. Flashlight
7. First Aid Kit-at least have some band aids, antibiotic ointment, antihistamine for bites, moleskin.
8. Fire Starter
9. Matches
10. Knife-a multi tool would even be better.

A few other items to consider would be a hat, water treatment device, and insect repellant. I know it seems like a lot of stuff to carry but it only takes one time to get lost or injured before you would be grateful that you brought the 10 essentials. Check out the 10 Essentials Shopping Cart.

Tags: durango colorado, iron horse, memorial weekend, silverton colorado, Southwest Colorado, ten essentials

This entry was posted on May 24, 2011 at 5:55 am. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

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