Fall is the perfect time to take a short day hike and explore the outdoors. The air is crisp, the leaves are changing colors and the weather is just right. A day hike can be an enjoyable way to keep fit. It also offers an opportunity for you to get close to nature and see some of the most beautiful scenery in nature as leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow before they fall from their trees.

It's important to plan to make sure that you have all the essential hiking gear, especially for beginner hikers. When considering what to bring on your day hiking trip, think about the weather forecast, the terrain, and the duration of your hike. You should also prepare for emergencies by bringing along all the essential items you might need on your hiking trails.

Fall Hiking Essentials You Need

When you go hiking, you need to be prepared for all weather conditions. The most important gear pieces you need for a successful adventure are the ones that keep you safe.

Hiking is a great way to get out of the city, forget your stress, and enjoy nature. Fall hiking is a great way to enjoy the changing leaves and beautiful scenery that comes with the season.

Here are some essential hiking gears to bring before you head out on your next fall hiking adventure.

• Water bottles and water filters such as Lifestraw or water purification tablets make use of water sources in your trails.
• Cell phone flashlights, waterproof flashlights, fire starters, or matches
• Pocket knife or Swiss Army knife
• Snacks like trail mix and granola bars
• An emergency shelter like a bivvy tent, sleeping bag, and emergency blanket
• Extra layers of clothes (insulated jacket or hooded sweatshirt)
• A light source like headlamps, and a whistle
• Compact rain jacket and Hat
• First-aid supplies (bandages, gauze, and antiseptic wipes),
• Sun protection, insect repellent or bug spray, a compass for navigation, and a roll of duct tape to fix most things.
• Hiking backpack
• Hiking boots or trail running shoes and preferably merino wool socks

How Can You Prepare and Staying Safe on the Trail?

There are many ways to prepare for an emergency situation. But no matter how you prepare, there are certain things that every hiker should have in their day pack before they start their journey.

1. Bring extra water in your hydration pack to stay hydrated
2. Bring extra clothing in your day pack for cold weather hikes and protective clothing for summer hikes.
3. Let someone know where you're going and when you plan to be back
4. Pack your first aid kit with the essentials and extra batteries

The Benefits of Going on A Fall Hike

Going on a fall hike is a great way to get in touch with nature. It's the perfect time of year to enjoy the changing colors and take in the cool, crisp air.

The benefits of going on a fall hike are plentiful. It will help you relax and unwind after a long day at work, it’s a great exercise that will get your heart pumping, and it will give you some much-needed vitamin D.

Fall hikes offer many different benefits, so if you're looking for an enjoyable activity that's good for your health too, this is it!