Know Before You Go! A Field Survey of the Preparedness of Wilderness Day Hikers and Trail Runners in Rocky Mountain National Park

Abstract

Introduction: Actively recreating in natural environments enhances physical and mental health but also carries risk. We aimed to characterize wilderness day hikers and trail runners and examine factors that predict preparedness. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey in 4 distinct areas of Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado during June to August of 2024. English-speaking adults returning from a day hike or trail run were invited to participate. We classified visitors as prepared based on the gear they reported carrying. Results: Of 801 potential participants approached, 586 day hikers (82.3%) and 68 trail runners (76.4%) agreed to participate. The overall average age was 40.7 y (range 18–82 y), 50.1% were female, and the most common state of residence was Colorado (47.3%). Day hikers tended to be older, travel in larger groups, and spend fewer days in the wilderness per year, whereas trail runners reported higher levels of experience and wilderness preparedness and were more likely to experience “close calls.” A minority of participants met our definition of wilderness prepared, about half were altitude prepared, and approximately a quarter did not tell anyone where they were going or when they expected to return. Several measures of experience were associated with preparedness. Conclusion: Both equipment and knowledge are important for safely when enjoying and leaving wilderness settings. Yet, many wilderness users in Rocky Mountain National Park did not meet our definition of adequate preparation, especially those with less experience. Additional efforts to increase the proportion of wilderness day users who are prepared may help further improve visitor safety.