Fall Hiking Essentials: What to Wear and Pack 

Autumn is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful seasons to embark on a hiking trip. The refreshing air, vibrant leaves, and reduced foot traffic make it an opportune moment to explore the trails and take some stunning Fall photos.  

However, the weather can be as  unpredictable as a lighting strike. Therefore, it is crucial to prepare adequately. Our blog post aims to provide you with valuable insights on what to bring and wear for a fall hike that will enhance your outdoor experience and ensure maximum comfort.

1. Clothing

    Layer Up: Hikers should layer up for temperature regulation, moisture management, versatility, and safety while staying comfortable and prepared for changing conditions. 

          ❤Base Layer: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin. We recommend the Under Armour Men's Tech 2.0 Short Sleeve T-Shirt or the Columbia Women's Midweight Baselayer Top.

• Insulation Layer: Depending on the temperature, add an insulating layer like the Columbia Men's Steens Mountain Full-Zip Fleece for men or the Amazon Essentials Women's Full-Zip Polar Fleece Jacket for women.

• Outer Layer: A waterproof and windproof jacket is crucial for cold fall hikes. Consider the Columbia Men's Watertight II Jacket for men or the Columbia Women's Arcadia II Jacket for women.

2.    Bottoms and Accessories: Choosing durable and breathable materials for bottoms and accessories ensures they can withstand the rigors of hiking and outdoor activities, reducing the risk of clothing or gear failure and overheating.

• Pants: Opt for moisture-wicking and quick-drying hiking pants like the Columbia Men's Silver Ridge Convertible Pants or the prAna Women's Halle Convertible Pant.

• Headwear: Keep your head warm and protect your scalp from too much sun with a beanie or a hat like the Carhartt Men's Acrylic Watch Hat or the C.C Women's Cable Knit Beanie.

• Gloves: Protect your hands with insulated gloves such as the Outdoor Research Men's Gripper Sensor Gloves or the Columbia Women's Fast Trek Glove.

    3.  Footwear: When it comes to hiking, it's important to choose the right footwear for the specific terrain you'll be tackling. For rocky trails, you'll want boots with sturdy soles and ankle support. If you're planning on hiking an accessible route, lightweight shoes may be more suitable. For mountaineering, there is specialized footwear available that will provide the necessary grip and protection. It's crucial to select quality hiking boots that are both breathable and waterproof. This allows moisture to escape, regulating foot temperature and preventing overheating or chilling in cold, wet conditions. 

• Invest in a pair of waterproof hiking boots with good traction. We recommend the Columbia Men's Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot for men and the Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boot for women.  💥And you'll want that  good traction if you have to out run a mountain lion! Just kidding. DON'T RUN. You won't win!💥What to do if you see a mountain lion. 

            Socks

• Merino wool socks like the Darn Tough Men's Merino Wool Hiker Boot Socks for men or the Smartwool Women's Hike Medium Crew Socks for women will keep your feet warm and dry.

 4.       Gear and Accessories: Selecting the appropriate gear for hiking is a bit like choosing a romantic partner - you want someone who's compatible with your needs, supportive, reliable, and won't let you down when the going gets tough. So, when it comes to hiking gear, make sure you choose wisely, or you might find yourself stranded on the trail with a broken heart that can't find its way home because of a broken compass.  

                BackPack

• Choose a durable and appropriately sized backpack to carry your essentials. The TETON Sports Scout 3400 Internal Frame Backpack is an excellent option for beginners and experienced hikers.

                 Navigation Tools

• Having a reliable compass and a detailed topographic map of the hiking area is crucial for a successful and safe hike. Make sure you bring them with you on your next adventure.

                   Hydration

• Carry a reusable water bottle or hydration reservoir like the CamelBak Crux Reservoir to stay hydrated on the trail.

                  Snacks

• Pack energy-boosting snacks like granola bars, trail mix, and dried fruits.

              First Aid Kit

• A basic first aid kit, like the Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight Watertight .5 Medical Kit, is essential for minor injuries.

              Emergency Gear

• Carry a whistle, a headlamp with extra batteries, and a fire starter.

Alright, adventure seeker! Are you ready to fall into the beauty of nature? It's time to put on your hiking boots, grab your backpack, and hit the trails. With the right gear and clothing, you'll be prepared for anything the season has in store for you. But before you go, remember to check the weather, trail conditions, and always practice Leave No Trace principles. And who knows, you might just stumble upon a hidden gem or two along the way. So, let's fall for hiking and make some unforgettable memories this season.