HELP w/ Colorado Trip Planning...

[sr1355]

Ok boys and girls, I missed my annual backpacking trip out west last year and do not plan on missing it this year. As a pre-runner to that trip the GF and I are planning on heading to RMNP area for some camping/backpacking/hiking.... Nothing extreme as she has only spent two nights in a hammock and loves it...We are thinking of a few nights in campgrounds and a few nights on the trail. We will be in the area for a week and are looking for suggestions. I've checked USFS website for USFS campgrounds and my concern is they state tents must fit on pad, I assuming that attaching a hammock to a tree in a USFS CG would be a violation of the rules.

We are open to suggestions on alternate areas to visit but are looking a a 20+ hour drive from Michigan to RMNP area...

Any input from those in CO would be greatly appreciated...

[ringtail-THFKAfood]

Reverend's Ridge in Golden Gate Canyon State Park is a good choice for campgrounds.

I do not hike in RMNP. Look into Indian Peaks Wilderness directly south of the Park. The Park now requires approved bear containers.

[Mustardman]

The national forest lands have tons of dispersed backcountry campsites - there's no need to limit yourself to RMNP.

HOWEVER - that said, the shuttle system is RMNP is pretty dang awesome and will allow you to do some great one-ways. I've gotten away with hammocks in some USFS campgrounds - your biggest limitation is likely to be the presence of appropriate trees, rather than rangers. In some cases, I've hung the hammocks between a telephone pole and the roof rack of the Jeep.