As we celebrate Earth Month and look forward to summer activities enjoying Colorado’s scenic landscapes, it’s an ideal time to consider how to care for Colorado’s ecosystems through responsible recreation.
Some of Colorado’s campgrounds, wilderness areas, and trails require advance reservations or permits to protect these wild places from the strain of too much visitation. These guidelines will help you venture into the wild, responsibly.
With over 300 miles of hiking trails in an area known for wildlife including elk, Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) is a beloved destination. An estimated four million visitors enjoy RMNP annually. From May 22nd through mid-October, there is a timed entry system to access the park to stagger guest visitation and allow for a better experience. Get all the details here.
The Indian Peaks Wilderness area on the western side of RMNP near Grand Lake requires backcountry permits for overnight stays during certain times of year. Check the Forest Service site to determine if you’ll need a permit based on the dates of your visit and the size of your group.
Stretching across 2.3 million acres that encompass ski areas from Aspen/Snowmass to Breckenridge to Copper Mountain to Vail, the White River National Forest is home to ten Fourteeners, or peaks over 14,000 feet.
The Maroon Bells near Aspen are some of the most photographed mountains in the United States, with their distinctive triangular shape and Maroon Lake in front of the peaks creating dramatic views. Since many hikers and climbers frequent this area, advance overnight permits are required for some of the most popular areas in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness: Conundrum Hot Springs, Capitol Lake, Crater Lake, and the Four Pass Loop, including Snowmass Lake and Geneva Lake.
Also check to see if your destination requires bear canisters, as campers in many of these areas must bring a bear container with them.
With steep canyon walls, stunning drops to the valley floor, and the river running through it, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park draws anglers and hikers alike to this breathtaking locale in southern Colorado. The North Rim Campground has first-come, first-served camping sites only.
Because of the challenging terrain, remote location of the park, and limited services, it’s crucial to bring plenty of water and know your limits when hiking and exploring these challenging routes. From late fall through mid-spring, drinking water is not available in the park.
Because of damage from the South Rim fire in 2025, the East Portal Campground, South Rim Campground, and Rim Rock Trail from South Rim Campground to Tomichi Point are closed until further notice.
Lizard Head Wilderness near Telluride spreads across over 40,000 acres. Named for a volcanic rock spire that looks like the head of a lizard, this area is home to three well-known Fourteeners: El Diente Peak, Wilson Peak, and Mount Wilson. In general, permits are not required, but check the Forest Service site for details on specific campgrounds.
Colorado has a bounty of beautiful places to explore. Plan ahead and be a mindful steward of natural resources to help preserve these wild places.