Trekking Poles

Trekking poles are one of the simplest and most effective tools for staying safe and balanced on Rocky Mountain National Park’s winter trails. At Estes Park Tour Guides, we provide MSR trekking poles to every guest because they dramatically improve stability on snow-packed trails, icy inclines, uneven terrain, and steep descents—especially when conditions shift quickly with Colorado’s winter weather.

Trekking poles act as a third and fourth point of contact, helping hikers maintain balance, reduce joint impact, and stay upright on variable snow surfaces. Whether you're walking across compressed snow near Bear Lake, navigating early-morning ice on Deer Mountain, or moving through soft, afternoon slush, poles offer predictable support and confidence for every ability level. The adjustable design of MSR poles fits adults and youth, making them ideal for families, groups, and first-time winter hikers who want added assurance on the trail.

Using trekking poles is simple: keep your pole length set so your elbows stay near a 90-degree angle, plant the pole just ahead of your foot, and maintain a natural rhythm as the trail rises or falls. When traveling downhill on icy slopes, place your poles slightly in front to maintain control; when climbing, shorten your stride and plant poles firmly into the snowpack for traction. Always use the snow baskets when traveling in winter conditions to prevent poles from sinking deep into the powder beside the packed trail.