• Decide who is going on the trip
• Decide when and where you are going
• Outline your hiking route
• Call Backcountry Office for likely snow, trail or campsite conditions at time of trip
• Call or write for reservations or permits for campsites
• Backcountry Office (970) 586-1242; mailing address: Backcountry Office; Rocky Mountain National Park; 1000 Highway 36 West; Estes Park, CO 80517.
• Check permit regulations
• Order maps and guidebooks and compass
• Begin breaking in new boots

3 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

1-2 Weeks Ahead

• Buy and repackage food

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

Day of Trip

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