There's no greater way to explore the Colorado Rockies than by foot.

The greatest thing about meandering through the mountains on your own two feet is that there is virtually no path that can't be traveled and there are no special skills required ... anyone who can walk can also hike.

That said, hiking, as most of us know, is a bit more strenuous than walking, especially considering what it entails around here - going upward from 8,000 feet.There are certainly other considerations besides decent fitness to ensure safe and fun hiking in the High Country. We've compiled a few here to keep in mind the next time you plan to hit the trail.

Hiking Precautions:

• Never go alone - If you get in trouble, your cell phone probably won't work.
• Wear proper footwear - Hiking boots are the best bet, but sturdy trail running shoes and some sneakers can also work for shorter trips. Sandals = Bad idea. No Socks = Bad idea. Wear good, thick socks, preferably made from wool or synthetic fibers. Cotton gets wet easily and often leads to blisters. Clothing, too ... synthetic shirts, shorts or pants are FAR better than jeans and cotton tees.
• Get an early start - In July and August, storms typically roll in around 1 or 2 p.m., and you do not want to get stuck in one. If climbing a fourteener (there are 55 peaks in Colorado that exceed 14,000 feet in height) or a trail that lies above timberline (11,500 feet in these parts), you should literally get started at the crack of dawn. An exposed, treeless ridge is the last place you want to be during a lightning storm.
• Bring the essentials - This means a waterproof jacket or trash bag and an extra layer, water, snacks, compass, lighter or matches and a light. Cold weather moves in fast at high elevation and you never know when you may lose your way. It's best to be prepared for darkness.
• Don't feed the wildlife and pack your trash with you - Don't forget we want to keep the wilderness wild. You're not doing an animal any favors by training it not to forage for its own food.
• Stay on the trail - Don't be afraid to get your feet muddy. Stepping off the trail destroys delicate plants and causes erosion.When dark clouds roll in, turn around. As we said earlier, storms move in VERY quickly at this elevation.

Make sure you're familiar with the area and the route. Mary Ellen Gilliland's books - Summit Hiker and Vail Hiker - supply detailed descriptions of all the best hikes in and around the valley, including driving directions, mileage, difficulty and estimated time.