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Backpacking and Camping in Colorado’s Backcountry

Backpacking and Camping in Colorado’s Backcountry

By June 12, 2025All Articles

Backpacking and Camping Colorado

There’s something magical about leaving the roads behind and venturing into Colorado’s backcountry. With towering peaks, alpine lakes, and trails that wind deep into wild spaces, backpacking and camping in Colorado’s backcountry is a dream come to life. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve logged plenty of miles, this guide will walk you through what to pack, where to go, and how to stay safe and inspired along the way.

Why Choose Colorado for Your Backpacking and Camping Trip?

Colorado’s backcountry is more than just a beautiful place. Backpacking here gives you a chance to disconnect from daily life and reconnect with nature, yourself, and the people you’re hiking with. You’ll wake up to mountain sunrises, cook meals under the stars, and fall asleep to the sound of wind in the trees.

And for teens and adults craving adventure, challenge, or just peace and quiet, there’s truly nothing like a backcountry camp in Colorado.

How to Plan Your Backcountry Camp Trip in Colorado

1. Choose the Right Location

Some of our favorite backcountry areas in Colorado include:

Search for “camp Colorado backcountry” to find more options or use apps like AllTrails and Gaia GPS.

2. Understand Permits and Regulations

Many areas require permits, especially during peak season (late June–August). Know the rules for camping, fires, and waste disposal. Leave No Trace is more than a motto; it’s how we protect these places.

3. Timing Matters

Colorado’s backcountry can hold snow into June. The best time to backpack is usually mid-July through September. Be ready for afternoon thunderstorms, especially in the summer.

What You Need for a Successful Backcountry Camp Experience

Backpacking and camping in Colorado’s backcountry means carrying everything you need; and nothing you don’t. Check out this list:

  • Backpack (50 – 70 liters)
  • Lightweight Tent or Bivy
  • Sleeping Bag (rated 20-30 degrees F)
  • Sleeping Pad
  • Stove, Fuel, and Cook Kit
  • Food (and bear proof storage system!)
  • Layers (including rain gear)
  • First Aid Kit
  • Navigation (map, compass, GPS)

And don’t forget other important items: sunscreen, headlamp, bug spray, a trowel, and your sense of adventure.

Staying Safe in the Backcountry

Colorado’s mountains are beautiful, and they demands respect.

  • Weather changes fast. Always check the forecast and plan for sudden storms.

  • Altitude is real. If you’re coming from lower elevations, give yourself time to acclimate.

  • Wildlife is wild. Store food properly and know what to do if you encounter a bear or moose.

  • Navigation is key. Cell service can be spotty so carry a map and know how to use it.

Tips from the Trail

At Deer Hill Expeditions, we’ve been leading teens and adults into the Colorado backcountry for over 30 years. Here are a few tips we always share:

  • Pack light and smart. Comfort counts after day three.

  • Hydrate constantly. At elevation, it’s easy to get dehydrated without realizing it.

  • Share the load. Divide gear among your group to save weight and build teamwork.

  • Don’t rush. The journey is the destination!

Final Thoughts

Backpacking in Colorado’s backcountry isn’t just a trip… it’s a chance to grow, breathe, and experience something unforgettable. Whether you’re setting off on your own or joining a guided wilderness program like ours at Deer Hill, the mountains are calling, and they’ve got a tent spot waiting for you.

Want More?

Looking to take your backpacking skills to the next level? Check out our Wilderness Leadership program designed for teens ready to take on real adventure, connect with a team, and lead with confidence in the backcountry.