A Quick Guide to Responsible Tourism

Tread Light and Don't Trample

Colorado has an abundance of pristine, but fragile nature. Alpine tundra is extremely fragile and this is found all along Guanella Pass and in many other areas. You might be tempted to walk off trail for the perfect photo opp or for a faster way up a hill. The trails are there for a reason. They protect a variety of species from human destruction. Respect our beautiful state and STAY ON THE TRAIL. If you step out of your car and there isn't a path, do not wander. Even if there isn't a sign, do not trample.

Only YOU Can Prevent Forest Fires

Colorado's climate is extremely dry. While this makes for pleasant weather all year round, it also creates a massive risk of wildfires. As the climate changes, our state experiences less snow and rain every year, which only intensifies this risk. In 2020, we experienced the worst 2 wildfires in Colorado history. No one thinks it can happen to them, but it can and it does! At the Hygge Chalet there is a 100% ban on ALL open fires All year as a protective measure for the surrounding forests and homes. This also means you should NEVER flick a cigarette from your car or onto the ground and always properly dispose. Be respectful. Be safe. Follow the rules. They're not a suggestion.

DO NOT FEED THE ANIMALS

Colorado also has an abundance of wildlife, including mountain lions, bobcats, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, chipmunks, and so on. I didn't think I would need to write this until I saw a woman feeding sheep from her car on Guanella Pass. It was outrageous. Colorado is not a petting zoo. Encouraging animals to take food from humans (even the smallest of chipmunks) is a huge danger to them. It trains them to come closer to the roads where they risk getting killed and to rely on humans for food, rather than foraging naturally. Never feed wildlife of any kind (even if others are doing it)... in any state or country for that matter. And if you see something, please say something. 

Protect Yourself and the Bears

Yes, Colorado has a lot of bears. Yes, a bear has already found the trash of a guest who ignored the rules... and he likes to come back and check for more. A bear that has interaction with humans will often need to be put to death. While they pose little risk to you when spotted, you pose a lot of risk to them. Do not leave food, trash, or food items outside anywhere you are -- not even in your car overnight. They will break in for the smallest of treats. Leave all trash and recycling tied up, inside the home.