File :-(, x, )
Anonymous
So... I have 2 weeks off, and I want to go somewhere on my own. Just a fun trip where I can see new things and enjoy nature. I've never been out west, and was thinking it'd be neat to just go to Arizona or something and camp under the stars while walking somewhere...across some kinda park or something? I dunno.


has anyone here ever taken a few days just to go camp and relax somewhere?
>> Anonymous
Don't go to Arizona. If you camp in the desert, you're a fucking idiot. If you camp in the forested parts, pine trees and mountains don't really change that much.
>> Anonymous
>>9994
I just want to do some fun hikinh, light climbing (nothing involving ropes since I'm a climbing noob). I also want to just do the cowboy thing. Chill out by some red rocks, watch the sun set, relax...
>> Anonymous
It's the wrong time of year for that in most of the mountain states. It will be snowy and cold as fuck.
>> Anonymous
>>9998
damn. Guess I need a better plan for spring break.
>> Anonymous
>>9999
I used to work as a guide in the Colorado Rockies and we would take small groups on 5-7 day backpacking trips. It's really fun and there a lot of places to do go, but this is definitely not the best time of year. In a lot of places, late June-early July is the earliest unless you plan on being on skis, snowshoes, or crampons. Even at that time of year, you can expect to hit deep snow in some areas, particularly above 11,000ft. Surprise snowstorms aren't uncommon either.

Mid-July is usually about ideal, but any time through mid September is usually OK. After that, it starts getting cold again at high altitudes.

As far as where to go, Rocky Mountain National Park is a good place to start. There's lots of info available, but it can get a little crowded and overused.

The Southwestern part of the state is wonderful, but there isn't as much information readily available and what there is is often out of date. The terrain is beautiful and there are very few people out there, so it's a nice place to get away. Just don't expect rescue if you get yourself in trouble, it's a long way out.
>> Anonymous
>>10005
wow great advice! thanks.

As for this time of year, is there any place out west that will be comfortably warm to hike around, or drive across (camping in pickup bed)