For many, autumn is the ideal season for outdoor fun. But as the temperatures start to drop, we want to make sure our hikers and campers stay safe while exploring our parks.
We’ve gathered some top tips for staying warm and dry during your fall forays:
1. Hope for the best, but plan for the worst
Odds are, you’ve got a refreshing day of outdoor adventure in store, but wise adventurers are prepared in case things don’t go according to plan.
Choose trails suitable to your level of experience (if you’re not sure, park staff are happy to offer advice).
Let friends or family know where you are going, what your route will be, and when you will check in after your adventure.
If you’re day hiking, make sure you’ve got plenty of time to finish the trail before dark.
Carry an appropriate emergency kit for your planned excursion.
This could include:
- first aid kit
- survival kit (e.g., knife, firestarter, water purification tablets, emergency blanket, paracord)
- headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- navigation gear (e.g., map and compass, GPS, navigation app on your phone)
- emergency locator beacon / satellite communicator (Spot or Garmin Inreach devices work via satellite, so you can communicate when you are out of cell reception. If you get in trouble, hit the SOS button and help will be notified with your location)
2. Start cool; stay dry
If you’re warm before you even start a hike, you’ll quickly overheat and sweat once you get moving. This increases your risk of hypothermia.
To avoid sweating, start cool. Dress in layers of wicking, quick drying fabric such as merino wool or synthetics.
3. But not too cool!
It’s important not to let your body get chilled when you take your breaks.
Keep a down or synthetic puffy jacket in your pack for when you stop. They are warm, light, and take up very little room.
4. Keep your feet dry
On wet fall days, it’s hard to keep your feet dry. Make sure you have waterproof (but breathable) footwear, and wear wicking socks made out of merino wool.
On rainy days or wet mornings, add gaiters to keep you dry from the knees down.
5. Fuel your body
Keep your warmth and energy up with high-calorie foods and hot drinks.
Nuts, dried fruit, chocolate, and energy bars can all be great choices for the trail.
Bring a compact camp stove with small pot, or pack hot chocolate in a thermos.
Don’t forget to bring lots of water to stay hydrated.
6. Pack for cold weather
Yes, we know — the title of today’s post specifically says “cool weather adventuring.”
But “cool” can quickly turn to “cold” in fickle fall weather, especially if you get caught in the rain.
Always pack a warm hat, gloves, and a waterproof shell jacket in case the weather turns. By keeping hands, head, and core warm, you will be a lot more comfortable, even in nasty wet weather.
7. Sleep tight
Spending the night?
Make sure your sleeping pad is insulated and your sleeping bag is rated for 5-10ºC colder than you expect to encounter.
You can adapt your warm weather gear by adding a foam pad under your sleeping pad and adding a sleeping bag liner to your summer bag.
If you experience a particularly cold night, add layers of clothing to increase your warmth.
Happy trails!
