Hiking: Fall’s Changing Weather
Photo: Carol Logan
Brad Viles recently posted a great article, “Safe hiking tips offered for fall’s changing weather,” for bangordailynews.com. Viles, of Maine, writes with the intent of making your next hike safer and more comfortable, offering tips on more than just what to wear.
The first point Viles makes is the importance of planning for reduced daylight. As the daylight shortens, so do the hours available for a safe and comfortable hike. As a precaution, it’s important to pack a working flashlight, lantern, or headlamp. In fact, it’s so important that some state parks require hikers to carry them during any season—not just the fall.
The next topic Viles tackles is packing. He emphasizes the importance preparing for changing weather. Packing a good rain shell should protect you from wind and rain; gloves and hat from dropping temperatures. The cooler temperatures often make hikers think they don’t need water, but they still do. Drink before you’re thirsty to prevent dehydration.
Finally, while on the trial, Viles suggests establishing a firm turn-back time to avoid being caught in the dark. He also cautions to keep an eye on wet leaves and/or snow on the trial that could result in a fall. And never rule out snow!
Viles’ article acts as a great supplement to Coast’s own article about camping in the fall.
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Tags: fall, hiking tips, Maine