DENVER – It seems that everyone wants to live in Colorado. But to safely experience the Centennial State and feel like a true native, you’ll need to check off these quintessential items first.
4-wheel drive
Although most of us can get by just fine without the extra oomph that a 4-wheel drive vehicle provides, it comes in handy when you want to venture off the trail. Besides, your out-of-state friends are going to be impressed when you take them “off-roading” in the Park Meadows parking lot.
Any bicycle
With thousands of miles to explore in Colorado, it would be shame if you left your bike at home. Whatever type of bike you choose -- mountain, street or the ultimate hipster bike: the fixed-gear – there is plenty of terrain you and your bike can seek out.
A tent
You’ll never know when you’ll need one. Living in Colorado means turning that driftless weekend into an adventure-packed camping trip. For most of us, those last-minute excursions are only an hour drive away.
Hiking gear
Colorado is home to 53 mountain peaks with an elevation of 14,000 feet, and more than 4 million acres of “roadless” land. You’ll never see the steadfast Colorado adventurer without their overstuffed daypack and a trusty pair of hiking boots.
Sunscreen
This is one of the most important items you’ll need to pack with you wherever you go in Colorado, as the risk for sunburns increase the higher in altitude you go.
Sunglasses
Your protection from that fiery ball in the sky doesn’t end at SPF-50. You’ll need to slap a pair of sunglasses on that well-slathered face of yours if you want to safely experience our state's nearly 300 days of sunshine.
Satellite radio
This will keep you entertained when you’re stuck nose to tail in those nightmarish I-70 traffic jams. Plus, terrestrial radio signals all but disappear once you reach Idaho Springs.
Snow shovel
We like to boast that snow doesn’t stick around very long here in Colorado, but there are times when Mother Nature refuses to conform to popular opinion. You’ll need a snow shovel no matter what part of the state you live in.
All-weather gear
Colorado experiences all four seasons, so you’ll need to make sure you have the right kind of clothing and equipment: rain ponchos in summer, those fashionable scarves in the fall and a heavy coat for those blistering winter nights.
Water bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial in Colorado. A higher altitude means the moisture in your skin evaporates faster.
