Summer Hut Trips Preparation Guide
10th Mountain Huts
July 21, 2026
Everything you need to know if you’re heading to the huts this summer
Summer is in full swing here in the Colorado high country! As groups head out for their backcountry adventures, we want to share some important reminders to help ensure your summer hut trip is safe, comfortable, and memorable.
What to Pack
Don’t under-prepare or overpack for a summer hut trip. Before you load your backpack, make sure you know exactly what to bring.
- Check the gear guide: Review the official 10th Mountain Suggested Summer Equipment List to confirm what gear is mandatory for your trip, and read through the Hut Amenities section to see what is already provided for you at the huts.
Water Planning
Most huts do not have running water, and reliable sources can vary, especially with the current dry conditions.
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- Plan ahead: Research water availability for your specific hut and route using the 10th Mountain Summer Water Sources guide. Be sure to bring in your own filter, and be prepared to filter water from streams.
- Carry extra: With this year’s hot and dry conditions, some streams may not be running as usual. Be prepared to pack in your own water supply as needed!
- Call for the latest field info: If you’re unsure about water sourcing in the area of your summer hut trip, call our reservation team at 970-925-5775 to discuss potential water sourcing options, and get the latest available field reports.
Vehicle & Route Access
While many of our huts are accessible by car in summer, it’s important to note that backcountry road conditions are highly variable, and sudden changes in weather can render roads undrivable at any point. Vehicle access to a hut is never guaranteed.
- Leave the vehicle: We strongly encourage groups to use non-motorized travel to summer huts, such as hiking or biking. If needed, use one motorized vehicle for group support and heavier gear hauling (but do not put essential safety gear in the vehicle — always keep it with you on the trail!).
- Park at the gate: If you choose to drive, all vehicles must park at the non-motorized closure envelope for each hut (usually 1/8 to 1/2 mile from the hut). Use the provided gear carts to ferry your equipment.
Navigation & Physical Demands
Summer hut routes are physically demanding, and require adequate preparation. Most routes are several miles long and climb at least 1,500 feet in elevation, from a trailhead typically starting around 8,000+ feet.
- Know your route: Suggested summer trails are not always marked or maintained. Someone in your group must be proficient in route finding.
- The essentials: Always carry a detailed topographic map, GPS, and a compass — and know how to use them. Groups should also ensure they carry critical safety equipment with them when traveling to a hut, and be prepared to stay out overnight in case of an emergency.
Changing Weather & Fire Safety
Mountain weather can change rapidly in summer. A warm, sunny morning can quickly turn into a lightning storm, rain, or snow/hail at 11,000 feet, and temperatures can drop below freezing.
- Be prepared: Pack extra food, water, critical safety equipment, and warm layers.
- Fire awareness: Extreme fire conditions are present throughout Colorado this summer. We advise all summer hut visitors to read through the complete Wildfire Information section on our Field Page before embarking on any summer hut trip, and adhere to all current fire restrictions.
Have questions, or need more information? Please call our reservation team at 970-925-5775.