It’s no doubt that Taylor Park is a magnificent outdoor playground. Camping, hiking, ATVing, fishing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, you name it, it can be done here in Taylor Park. The key, however, is enjoying the great outdoors safely. From drastic, fast changes in the weather, to injuries, being prepared for a multitude of scenarios in important and can even mean the difference between life and death (This place can be unforgiving). Here are some basic items to bring with you on your excursion in the great outdoors.
Water
Be sure to always have plenty of drinking water for you and your group. If you think you have enough, bring more.
Sunscreen and bug repellent.
Sunscreen is a necessity in the Colorado sun, especially at 10,000 feet. Being sunburned is no fun here. Bring some bug repellent too. No one enjoys being devoured by mosquitoes or coming home with a tick.
Food/Groceries
Plan ahead for meals and snacks. It’s not so simple to run out and grab a bite around here, though there are some basic groceries options at the Trading Post (not open in the winter) if you get in a bind. Pack some meals and protein filled snacks such as nuts. Keep your body fueled like you would your car.
Fuel
This brings me to fuel. Be sure to gas up before heading up. Most people get gas in Buena Vista or Gunnison before arriving at Taylor Park. Again, fuel is available at the Trading Post (seasonally) but save yourself some money and the trouble of potentially long lines, or out of service pumps, and plan by getting fuel beforehand.
First aid kit
At a minimum, have a basic first aid kid. However, is it recommended to have more than a basic kit. BandAids and Neosporin won’t come in too handy if you have broken a bone after having a bad crash on the trail. Make sure you are semi-covered for more serious first aid scenarios. If you get hurt in Taylor Park, it is good to know that an ambulance is an hour or more away once they are called. If you are seriously injured, a helicopter may be dispatched. Remember too that if it’s an hour to come get you, it’s going to be another hour back to get you medical treatment. Make choices to prevent injuries from happening in the first place. Be safe and don’t do silly things.
Proper clothing
Even in the summer, plan for winter weather. This is the Rocky Mountains and weather conditions can change rapidly and unexpectedly. In Colorado, we can experience all 4 seasons in a single day. Layers are always a good idea. Peel off as needed. Besides, being too cold can keep you from enjoying your outdoor experience. Be prepared.
Proper footwear
Sort of along the same lines as clothing, having proper footwear can make or break an outdoor excursion. The terrain here is rocky and rugged. Wear shoes that protect your feet and have ankle support. No one wants their day cut short because of a twisted ankle among a rocky trail. Hiking boots of some kind are a good idea. The terrain is mostly dirt, mud, and rocks.
Satellite phone
It is also good to plan on very little cell phone coverage. There are some areas where cell phones do work, such as at the Trading Post, but coverage is very spotty beyond there. Always share your planned activities and destinations, what is route and when you expect to return with someone who isn’t going to be with you. DO NOT explore alone. Searching for a missing person here is like looking for a needle in a haystack. Also, give yourself ample time to get back before dark. It gets extremely dark at night. While a satellite isn’t a necessity, some adventurers like to have to some peace and mind, especially if they plan for more remote or extreme adventures in Taylor Park..