Fall hiking tips
There was a brief article on azcentral.com (Phoenix area news station) about cool weather hiking. It got me thinking - if folks in Phoenix of all places need to be mindful of hiking safety in cool weather, how much more important is it in places like New England and the Midwest? Here are some things to keep in mind when hiking this fall:
1. Check the weather forecast for your destination. The great thing about the internet is that it gives you instant access to up-to-date weather forecasts for locations all around the world. Just pop over the weather.com and get an idea of the current and forecasted weather where you’ll be hiking. Conditions can change quickly in the fall so let the pros give you a heads up before you’re on your way.
2. Bring clothes for all conditions. By now it’s cliche to say “dress in layers” but at the very least bring a small daypack with some emergency cold weather clothing items like gloves, a wool hat, and dry socks. These items don’t take up a lot of space but they can certainly come in handy in a pinch. A couple years back we were hiking the Daniel Boone Scout trail and it turned out to be a much colder day than we anticipated. Luckily I had a pair of cotton gloves left in my backpack for bike commuting and I wore them the whole trip!
3. Temperatures drop as you gain elevation. I’ve heard that temperatures drop an average of 10 degrees for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain and while that’s not a hard and fast rule it’s a good thing to keep in mind (imagine climbing a 14er - the temperature won’t quite drop 140 degrees but you get the idea 
). Not only are temperatures cooler the higher you climb but winds are generally more brisk as well, particularly on peaks without tree cover. Dress in layers or pack extra clothes and you’ll ensure a comfortable hike from bottom to top and back again.
4. Stay hydrated. Even though you may not feel like you’re sweating, your body still loses significant moisture even during easy hikes on cool days. Be sure to pack plenty of liquids for your trip and be mindful of your state of hydration. In many areas of the country fall and winter months are the driest months of the year and the dry air can leave you feeling thirsty quickly. Be prepared.
As with any outdoor activity, it’s important to plan ahead for your hiking trip. Fall can be a great time of year to get out and enjoy nature with a hike - just play it safe!
Related posts: