Fall hiking is magical – the air is crisp, the colors are breathtaking, and the bugs have mostly checked out for the season. But it’s also a time when the weather can be bipolar, trails get slippery, and daylight disappears faster than you expect.
Here’s some tips for fall hiking to make the most of your autumn adventures without ending up cold, lost, or wishing you’d stayed home with a blanket and Netflix.
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Plan Ahead
1. Check the weather twice
Autumn weather changes fast. Always check the forecast the night before and again in the morning so you’re not caught in an unexpected downpour or sudden temperature drop.
2. Start earlier in the day
Sunset comes quickly in autumn. Start your hike earlier so you don’t end up in the dark with only your phone flashlight.
3. Pick the right trail for the conditions
Wet leaves can be more slippery than black ice. Many national, state, provincial, and regional parks have dedicated sections on their websites for trail conditions. Choose trails that have safe footing.
4. Check if it’s hunting season
If it’s hunting season where you’re hiking, wear something neon and visible. Safety first means you’re seen by everyone, including hunters.
5. Have a plan B
Popular fall trails can be crowded or even temporarily closed for maintenance. Keep a close-by alternate option in mind so you can still enjoy the day without disappointment.
What to Wear
6. Layer up
Fall mornings say “sweater weather,” afternoons say “t-shirt weather,” and evenings say “sweater weather” again. Wear layers so you can adjust without full wardrobe changes.
7. Bring a lightweight rain jacket
Even if the sky looks clear, fall showers can roll in without warning. A packable waterproof jacket takes up little space but could save your mood and your hair.
8. Wear grippy, waterproof footwear
Wet leaves can be as slick as ice, and mud is a common trail companion in fall. Sturdy, waterproof boots with good traction keep you steady and dry.
9. Pack a hat & gloves
Cold hands can make even short hikes miserable. Lightweight gloves and a beanie take up almost no room in your pack but provide huge warmth. And bring an extra pair of socks – just in case.
10. Carry hiking poles
Trekking poles help with balance and knee strain on uneven terrain. They can also and give your upper body a little workout. They are also excellent for saving your butt when the trail is slippery.
Stay safe!
11. Bring a headlamp
Even if you plan to be back before dark, autumn sunsets can sneak up on you. A headlamp ensures you can see (and be seen) if your hike runs later than expected.
12. Download offline maps
Cell service can be unreliable in the backcountry, and fall storms can knock out coverage entirely. Having a downloaded map means you won’t be relying on guesswork to find your way.
13. Share your route
Whether you’re hiking alone or with others, it is a good idea to let a friend know your hiking plans. That way, if you disappear into the woods, there’s a solid plan for someone to come find you.
14. Stay on marked trails
Fallen leaves can make paths harder to follow, and wandering off can lead to disorientation. Stick to trail markers so you can enjoy the scenery without getting lost.
15. Be wildlife aware
Bears, moose, cougars and snakes are still active in the fall. Make noise on the trail, give animals space, and know how to respond if you encounter them.
Extra Comforts
16. Pack warm drinks in a thermos
A cup of hot cider, coffee, or cocoa halfway through a hike is pure autumn bliss. Pack another thermos with warm fall soup or stew. The warmth will also help keep your body temperature up.
17. Bring a small sit pad or blanket
Logs and rocks are nature’s seats… but also nature’s refrigerators. Something to sit on will make snack breaks way less “brr” and way more “ahhh.”
18. Have snacks that won’t freeze
Trail mix, dried fruit, and jerky stay tasty and edible even when the air gets chilly. Skip anything that turns rock-hard in the cold, like some granola bars.
19. Take leaf photos, not leaves
It’s tempting to pocket a few pretty leaves, but they’re best left to Mother Nature’s recycling program. Snap photos instead so the beauty lasts without harming the environment. Photos last forever, don’t attract bugs, and take zero space. Here’s 25 Fall Photo Tips for Autumn Hikes: Capture the Magic
20. Pause to enjoy the quiet
Fall hiking offers beauty and a peacefulness that’s hard to find in other seasons. Take a moment to stand still, breathe in the cool air, and let the rustle of leaves be your soundtrack.
21. Keep a cozy car kit
Stash a blanket, warm clothes, and a snack in your car. Future you will thank you.
Fall hiking is one of those rare joys that combines fresh air, stunning views, and just enough challenge to keep things interesting. With these 21 tips in your back pocket, you’re set to enjoy the beauty of autumn trails while staying warm, safe, and comfortable.
So lace up your boots, pack that thermos, and get outside – because hiking through a kaleidoscope of fall colors is pure magic. Happy trails!
Looking for more fun fall activities for your fall bucket list? Read the 2025 Autumn Bucket List That Keeps FOMO Away
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