GENERAL CLIMATE – Most of Colorado has a cool and invigorating climate that could be termed a highland or mountain climate of a continental location. During summer there are hot days in the plains, but these are often relieved by afternoon thundershowers. Mountain regions are nearly always cool. Humidity is generally quite low; this favors rapid evapotranspiration and a relatively comfortable feeling even on hot days. The thin atmosphere allows greater penetration of solar radiation and results in pleasant daytime conditions even during the winter. This is why skiers at high elevations are often pictured in very light clothing, although surrounded by heavy snow.

The climate of local areas are profoundly affected by differences in elevation, and to a lesser degree, by the orientation of mountain ranges and valleys with respect to general air movements. Wide variations occur within short distances. The difference (35°) in annual mean temperature between Pikes Peak and Las Animas, 90 miles to the southeast, is about the same as that between southern Florida and Iceland. The average annual snowfall at Cubres in the southern mountains is nearly 300 inches; less than 30 miles away at Manassa in the San Luis Valley, snowfall is less than 25 inches. While temperature decreases, and precipitation generally increases with altitude, these patterns are modified by the orientation of mountain slopes with respect to the prevailing winds and by the effect of topographical features in creating local air movements.

As a result of the State’s distance from major sources of moisture (the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico), precipitation is generally light in the lower elevations. Prevailing air currents reach Colorado from westerly directions. Eastward-moving storms originating in the Pacific Ocean lose much of their moisture falls as rain or snow on the mountaintops and westward-facing slopes. Eastern slope areas receive relatively small amounts of precipitation from these storms.

Storms moving from the north usually carry little moisture. The frequency of such storms increases during the fall and winter months, and decreases rapidly in the spring. The accompanying outbreaks of polar air are responsible for the sudden drops in temperature often experienced in the plains sections of the State. Occasionally these outbreaks are attended by strong northerly winds which come in contact with moist air from the south; the interaction of these air masses causes a heavy fall of snow and the most severe of all weather conditions of the high plains, the blizzard. This cold air is frequently too shallow to cross the mountains to the western portion of the State so while the plains are in the grip of a very severe storm, the weather in the mountains and western valleys may be mild.

Occasionally, when the plains are covered with a shallow layer of cold air, strong westerly winds aloft work their way to the surface. Warmed by rapid descent from higher levels, these winds bring large and sudden temperature rises. This phenomenon is the “chinook” of the high plains and temperature rises of 25 degrees to 35° within a short time are not uncommon. Chinook winds greatly moderate average winter temperatures in areas near enough to the mountains to experience them frequently.

Warm, moist air from the south moves into Colorado most frequently in the spring. As this air is carried northward and westward to higher elevations, the heaviest and most general rainfalls of the year occur over the eastern portions of the State. Frequent showers and thunderstorms continue well into the summer. At times during the summer, winds shift into the southwest and bring hot, dry air over the State from the hottest weather of the year over the eastern plains, but such hot spells are usually of short duration.

Your comfort is of utmost importance to us and we offer the following suggestions to help ensure your maximum enjoyment during a tour. Our clothing list recommendations are designed to cover the wide range in possible weather conditions.

Wearing layers of clothing is one of the best ways to regulate body temperature and conserve energy. By dressing in several light layers instead of one heavy article, you will be able to comfortably meet the range in weather conditions we often experience. As the temperature drops, you can add layers, and as the day warms up, you can remove layers. Polypropylene, capilene, or similar synthetic fabrics work best to wick moisture away from your skin and keep you dry. Moisture causes you to feel colder if it is cold outside, and often times hotter if it is hot. Trapped moisture also causes friction, chaffing and blisters.

Luggage Requirements: How to Pack

Due to the space constraints in our vehicles and custom trailers, we ask that you pack reasonably, including limiting your luggage to ONE MEDIUM-SIZED piece and a small daypack. Soft-sided luggage or a duffel bag works great, or a larger backpack if you are on a camping trip. Please do not bring excessively large suitcases or hard-sided baggage. Clearly mark each piece of luggage with your name for ease in identification. Your daypack will be kept handy in the support vehicle and used for extra clothing, camera or other miscellaneous gear that you may need throughout the day.

We caution participants not to bring fragile or breakable items as the luggage can get bounced around in our support vehicle. Also, due to the type of roads and trails that we follow, it is not uncommon for baggage to get quite dusty.

Clothing:

1 A warm jacket, sweater, or fleece top
1 1 Long sleeved thermal shirts that insulate well even when wet. These can be used for layering in the morning when it is cool, and, also if the temperature drops later in the day.
1 Pair of non cotton, thermal bottoms, cycling pants, or sweat pants
1 Short sleeved shirts (one for each day of your trip is recommended)
1 Pairs of shorts for hiking and around town. Bring 1 quick-drying pair if your tour includes rafting.
1 1 Multiple pairs of wool or synthetic blend socks for hiking and biking.
1 1 Pairs of polypropylene or capilene liner socks for use while hiking. The number of pairs may be altered depending upon the number of days that you will be hiking.
1 1 Pairs of cotton socks for evenings
1 1 A Good waterproof rain jacket and pants. Items made from breathable waterproof fabrics such Gore-Texä are preferred. Do not bring plastic ponchos.
1 1 Wool or fleece hat
1 1 Sun hat or baseball cap
1 1 Full fingered gloves or mittens. These are absolutely necessary for any trips in mountainous regions as it can snow even in the summer. Many people just bring their winter gloves. (Mountain Trips Only)

1 1 Pair of water shoes/sandals or shoes you don’t mind getting wet to wear for stream crossings or rafting. For example Tevas or Chaco's.
1 1 Pair of shoes that you can wear if your other shoes are wet
1 1 A Swimsuit (Bring a towel if your tour includes rafting.)
1 1 Sets of evening apparel (Casual dress and jeans are the norm.)
1 1 Wind shell jacket and pants (optional)
1 1 Rock climbing shoes & long shorts (or pants) that have a gusseted crotch (only needed on tours that include rock climbing). If you do not have your own shoes, they will be supplied by the Outfitter.

Hiking Equipment:

1 1 Ankle-supportive lightweight hiking boots or cross training shoes that are already broken in are a necessity. Smooth bottomed tennis shoes are not recommended, as they are not comfortable for extended hikes.
1 1 Hiking daypack to carry items such as a camera, sunscreen, lunch, snacks, and a jacket. Exterior pockets are great for easy access to water bottles. The World Outdoors can loan you a daypack at no additional cost. Just let us know several weeks before your trip.
1 1 At least two, 1 liter, water bottles or a Camelback. Camelbacks carry 70 or 100 oz. water bladders and larger camelbacks may double as a daypack.
1 1 Gaiters are especially useful for early summer trips in mountainous regions.


Biking Equipment:

1 1 21 or 24-speed mountain bike with low gearing and knobby tires (at least 1.9’ tires). Bikes are available for rent from The World Outdoors; please call The World Outdoors at least 1 month in advance.
1 1 Large hip sack or small daypack for carrying extra clothes, camera, and water. The World Outdoors can loan you a rear rack pack for no additional cost. Just let us know 2 weeks before your trip.
1 1 Pairs of padded cycling shorts. The number can be altered depending upon the number of days that you will be cycling on your trip.
1 1 1 liter water bottle or Camelbackä - may double as a daypack (The World Outdoors provides 1 water bottle)
1 1 Padded cycling gloves are a necessity to protect your hands.
1 1 HELMET - Absolutely required! The World Outdoors rental bikes come with a helmet.
1 1 Gel seat pad (optional)
1 1 Biking or Cross-training shoes

Personal Items:

1 1 Sunglasses with UV protection and retainer leash (such as Croakiesä)
1 1 Sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher)
1 1 Lip balm with UV protection
1 1 Insect repellent
1 1 Toiletries: towels, toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, hairbrush, etc…
1 1 Hand lotion or skin moisturizer
1 1 Personal first aid kit: aspirin, ibuprofen, Band-Aids, moleskin (for blisters), antihistamine tablets, prescription medications clearly marked in their original containers, eye drops, tampons, etc…
1 1 Musical instrument (Please let us know if you would like to bring a guitar.)
1 1 Camera and film with extra batteries for your camera.
1 1 Watch with an alarm or a personal alarm clock, as some of our inns do not provide wake up calls.
1 1 Binoculars
1 1 Earplugs (optional), especially if you’re a light sleeper and will be matched with another traveler
1 1 Pocket knife (optional, but sometimes handy)
1 1 Journal and/or books

Evening Attire: Casual dress is the standard in all our destinations.

As we will be on our feet each day, it is extremely important that you take the necessary precautions in caring for your feet. To prevent injury and discomfort, here are some guidelines:

· Wear comfortable, well fitting shoes.

· Always wear good hiking socks. In hotter regions, at least one pair of synthetic athletic socks is advised.

· Keep your feet clean and dry

· If you start to notice irritation or start to feel pain or a "hot spot" forming on your feet, this is usually an indication that a blister is forming. It is best to treat a problem area before blisters form and increased pain develops. Depending on the severity and type of irritation, you can:

· Cover the entire irritated area with moleskin; make sure the moleskin lies flat on your foot.

· Cut a doughnut out of the moleskin and place it around a blister that is forming.

· Use a piece of second skin to cover the problem area.

Other things to consider before leaving:

· Contact lenses: If you wear them, you may want to bring prescription glasses as they may become more convenient to wear.

· Prescription glasses: If you wear them, bring an extra pair.

· Prescription medicines: Bring an adequate supply in the original container.

Renting A Mountain Bike

If you require a bike rental, please make sure that you request one at least 90 days before your trip begins. We will fit you with the appropriate size according to your height. If you are accustomed to riding a particular size bike, just let us know and we will reserve that size for you.

Our rental bikes are of the highest quality and are new or recently new. The bikes are equipped with 27-speed index shifting, front suspension, a complimentary water bottle, rear rack and luggage bag. Bicycle helmets, which are required for all riders, are included with bike rentals. If you would prefer to bring your own clip less pedals, our guides will have tools to assist you in swapping the pedals. Please let us know if you would like a padded gel seat, at least 90 days before your trip as we have a limited supply, and we will do our best to accommodate your request.

Bringing Your Own Bike

A 21 or 27-speed mountain bike with low (24-26 tooth front chain ring) gearing is necessary for our tours. Tires of 1.9" width or greater with a knobby tread is also required.

Make sure your bike is in good repair and has been recently tuned by a qualified shop. The World Outdoors will assume no responsibility for the condition of your bike. If you are unsure of your bike's condition, have a bike shop check it out before the trip, or simply rent one of our quality bikes for the trip. If your bike has special or non-standard parts, we recommend that you bring the tools necessary to service your bike. Once the tour begins The World Outdoors will transport your bikes on the support vehicle along with the rental bikes.

Passports
Valid passport required by all nationals referred to in the chart ; validity varies - for most countries the passport must be valid for at least six months from the date on which the holder enters the USA. If not, the holder will be admitted until the expiration date on the passport; check with the embassy (see Contact Addresses).
Passport Note
(a) For nationals included in the Visa Waiver Program (see below), passports must be valid for at least 90 days from date of entry.
(b) All travellers entering the USA under the Visa Waiver Program require individual machine-readable passports. Children included on a parent's passport also now require their own machine-readable passport. Travellers not in possession of machine-readable passports will require a valid USA entry visa.
(c) Passports issued on or after 26 October 2005 will need to have a biometric identifier in order for the holder to travel visa free under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Machine-readable passports issued between 26 October 2005 and 25 October 2006 require a digital photograph printed on the data page or an integrated chip with information from the data page. Machine-readable passports issued on or after 26 October 2006 will require an integrated chip with information from the data page (e-passport).

The US has announced new measures that require all travellers to provide details online 72 hours prior to travel.
ESTA: The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) came into force on 12 January 2009. It is a fully automated, electronic system for screening passengers before they begin travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. ESTA applications must be submitted at least 72 hours before travel to the USA. Some websites may charge you for the service but you can apply online for free at www.dhs.gov. The granting of an ESTA does not guarantee entry to the USA.

New Requirements for Travellers: As of 23 January 2007 all persons, including US citizens, travelling by air between the USA and Canada, Central and South America, the Caribbean and Bermuda are required to present a valid passport, or other approved document, when entering or re-entering the USA. Similar requirements for those travelling by land or sea will be introduced on 1 June 2009.

For further details about the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, visit the website of the US Department of State: (website: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html).

Visas
Not required by nationals referred to in the chart above for stays of up to 90 days except:
1. nationals of Bulgaria, Cyprus, Greece, Hungary, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Romania and Slovak Republic, who do require a visa.
Visa Note
(a) Landed Immigrants of Canada and British residents of Bermuda who are citizens of, and have valid passports from, Commonwealth countries or Ireland are not eligible to enter the USA without a visa. (b) All passengers using US airports for transit purposes are required to obtain a transit visa. This does not affect qualified travellers travelling visa free under the Visa Waiver Program. (d) To qualify for visa-free travel under the Visa Waiver Program, nationals must travel on a valid passport, for holiday, transit or business purposes only and for a stay not exceeding 90 days. (e) Passengers must have the full address and ZIP code of where they are staying in the USA to be able to fully complete the I-94W form. Note: Airlines are also required to collect passenger details, including the address of their first night's accommodation in the USA, before they board the aircraft. (f) 2. Holders of UK passports with the endorsement British Subject, British Dependent Territories Citizen, British Protected Person, British Overseas Citizen or British National (Overseas) Citizen do not qualify for the Visa Waiver Program. A passport which states holder has right of abode or indefinite leave to remain in the UK does not qualify for visa free travel. (g) A visa does not expire with the expiry of the holder’s passport. An unexpired, endorsed visa in an expired passport may be presented for entry into the USA, as long as the visa itself has not been cancelled, is undamaged, is less than 10 years old and is presented with a valid non-expired passport, provided that both passports are for the same nationality. (h) Nationals of countries not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).
Types of Visa and Cost
Tourist, Business, Transit and Student: US$131.
Validity
Visas may be used for travel to the USA until the date it expires. Some visas are valid for multiple entries. The length of stay in the USA is determined by US immigration officials at the time of entry but is generally six months; there is, however, no set time.
Applications to:
Embassy or consulate (see Contact Addresses).
Working Days Required
Usually five after interview. Some cases may take up to 12 weeks – check with embassy/consulate.