The sheer size of the Canadian Rocky Mountains can be a bit overwhelming to the everyday hiker. Hiking them can be immensely rewarding, but the challenge also comes with some inherent dangers.
With only four months a year where the temperature stays above freezing, hikers must be acutely aware of the cold weather extremes.
As with other mountain ranges, avalanches are a real possibility. With massive amounts moving at such high speeds, hikers are in extreme danger if they are unfortunate enough to be in the avalanche's path.
Many species of animals live in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Grizzly bears, mountain lions and mountain goats are just a few, and if put in a situation where they are scared, they are likely to attack.
There are very few dry months in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Hikers should be sure to pack extra dry clothing and bedding to help stay warm after the rain.
With so much rain and snow, mudslides are another real threat to hikers in the Rocky Mountains.
As with any heavily forested area, falling trees are something hikers must be aware of. As trees age and die, they will fall and a hiker can suffer serious injuries in the process.
