4 Tips for Fall Hikers

Mount Bachelor, Oregon

Autumn’s cooler temperatures and colorful foliage draw many hikers to the trails, but slips, trips, falls and sudden changes in the weather can put a quick stop to all the fun. Hiking is a very healthy activity and it’s good for people to get out and explore nature, nothing compares to the grandeur of a fall hike.

Ensure a safe outing with these four easy planning tips:

1. Gear up. The weather can change quickly in the fall, MGA’s recommends packing an extra layer of clothing. It’s beneficial to have the option of adding or removing extra layers. Choose appropriate footwear; lightweight waterproof hiking boots are best. Bring a GPS tracker and a map and compass with you and know how to use them.  Be sure to bring snacks and water along even if you won’t be gone long, it will be helpful if you begin to feel fatigued or get lost.

2. Practice the buddy system. Hike in numbers to be safe – if you get lost or fall and become injured or spot a dangerous animal it helps to have others along. If you don’t have a buddy to hike with consider joining a hiking club or creating one yourself.  Stay on the trail, even if it is rough and muddy. Or if you hike off-trail spread out, it disperses impact and avoids creating a new trail.

3. Be informed. Educate yourself before you venture out on what’s in the local area so there are no unwelcome surprises. Check the local weather and know about plants or animals that you might come across. Talk to park rangers before heading out on a trail. Ask for their recommendations on hikes that are of the length you’re looking for, what you should take with you, and what you might encounter along the way.

4. Inform others. Always, always communicate your hiking plans to others; I can’t stress this last thing on the list enough.  Please let someone know where you’re going, when you’re leaving, and what time you anticipate returning. (And don’t decide to change course on a whim) If you run into trouble, someone can send help in a timely manner.

For more information on hiking awareness, check out wilderness hiking safety tips from the National Park Service.

Fall at the Grand Teton's, Wyoming

A mama bear and her cub
may look cute, but can be very dangerous!

And remember, pack it in, pack it out!!  Nothing ruins a great hike more than coming across plastic water bottles or food wrappers.

Hike on!

Genia Seghetti
Mountain Girls Adventures "An amazing life doesn't just happen, you create it one adventure at a time!"

About MGA:
At Mountain Girls Adventures the spirit of adventure runs deep. An adventurer's experience can move us, enrich our knowledge and awaken the wanderer within. As an adventurer my purpose is to live consciously and courageously, to resonate with love and compassion, to awaken the great adventure of life within others, and to leave this world a better place because I have lived.

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