There’s no doubt that Fall is the best time to hike in New York. For a few weeks each September and October the trees turn vibrant red, orange and golden. The landscape is simply gorgeous!
But that beauty comes during a time where the weather can turn quickly, the sun sets earlier and trails can be full of mud. I’ve compiled 10 tips to make you New York Fall hike safer and more fun!
Pre-Tip Advice: Don’t Forget the 10 Essentials for Fall Hiking in New York
Never get on trail without the 10 Essentials. This is particularly important for a hike in Autumn in New York.
This time of year we start to see the signs of winter approaching- it’s getting colder and the sun sets earlier and earlier each day. This means the 10 Hiking Essentials are even more, well, ESSENTIAL.
If you’re not familiar with the 10 Essentials they’re listed below but for a more thorough explanation be sure to check out this article and this one.
Here’s a Quick Glance at Hiking’s 10 Essentials
- Navigation
- Sun protection
- Extra clothing
- Illumination
- First Aid
- Fire
- Repair kit
- Hydration
- Nutrition
- Emergency Shelter
10 Tips for Fall Hiking in New York
The peak Autumn colors are calling to you and you’re hiking this weekend. You’ve done the research on which hike would bring the most vibrant colors and you’re capable of making the trek for the reward. You’ve already packed the 10 Hiking Essentials and some friends will be joining you. Everyone is excited!
New York’s weather and trails can be gorgeous but they can also be dangerous if you’re not prepared for sudden cold, earlier sunsets, rain, or mud. I’ve compiled below 10 tips for new York Fall hiking that will keep you happy and safe.
1. Pre-hike hydrate
Drink water the day before and morning of your hike. Yep. I wrote that. Because we all forget, get on trail and then before you know it you’re thirsty 1/4 mile in.
The colder weather can sometimes trick us into thinking we aren’t thirsty plus with the layers of clothing you’re wearing you may not realize how much water you’re losing through sweating. More info here.
And you can always use a little more water (unless you drink too much and don’t do that.)
2. Layer what you’re wearing
Put on these layers, yes, all of them, or at least bring them.
- Base layer– these are the clothing against your skin. They can be light to heavy, it’s up to your comfort level, but what’s important is that it wicks sweat away from your skin. These can be Merino wool or synthetics. BTW, this includes your socks. I LOVE Darn Tough socks, try them.
- Mid layer– the next layer up is the one that traps the heat from your body. This can technically be a couple of layers depending on the weather but be sure it’s something like polyester fleece.
- Outer layer– the wind and rain deterrents like a nice Gore-Tex or nylon jacket.
3. Eat a hearty breakfast
It’s cold out there and you’ll be moving with extra clothes on, you should have a hearty breakfast. Good carbs, protein and natural sugars from fruit will help keep your core warmer and gives you more energy.
Read more about this topic here.
4. Pack cold-weather layers
I know, I already covered layers but these are extras you may not need right away, at all or only in an emergency. These are items like gloves, beanie or a goose-down puffy jacket. If you’re summiting or heading up early in the morning or staying on trail for sunset you’ll be glad you packed these warmer items in you day pack.
5. Bring your camera
This is not vital but you’ll want to photos of those brilliant colors. I know, you have you camera on your phone already and it’s going on the hike with you but be sure you have the space for more pics.
6. Don’t forget trekking poles
Many day hikers don’t bother with trekking poles but they not only save your knees they also provide stability in mud and across beaver dam crossings, which you are almost certain to come across on New York’s trails.
Which brings me to my next tip, put extra socks in your vehicle.
7. Place extra water and socks in the car
I can’t tell you how many times I was so thankful to have an extra pair of socks in the car after my hike through mud and water. Dry, warm socks are awesome, just saying.
I also bring extra water because I always run out on trail and get back to the car wishing I had some water.
8. Start early
Peak Autumn colors attract the masses. Parking lots fill, trails get congested, summits are crowded and all that sucks. Be early, start early and enjoy the calm before the people arrive.
9. Warm-up on trail
Start your hike cold and with the least amount of clothing you can handle but aren’t super cold. Sweat is the enemy in cold weather, you don’t want wet clothes in cold weather. If you do start with many or hot layers be sure to strip them before you sweat.
10. Don’t remove clothing if you’re hot and sweating
This one has gotten me a few times. Don’t be too quick to remove clothing if you’re hot. If you’re sweating and remove clothing to expose your skin this can cause muscle stiffness, chills, and shivering. Instead, stop moving for a bit to cool off. If you need to remove a top layer but don’t expose your skin.
Best Tips for Fall Hiking NY Style Conclusion
There they are, my 10 top tips for Autumn hiking in New York or Flagstaff or almost anywhere with changing leaves.
Are you ready for some amazing fall hiking?
Leave a comment below to share what you take on your Fall hikes.
See my hike up Ampersand Mountain in the Fall
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Hi, I’m Allie, obsessed hiker, explorer of our world and reinventor of my life in my 50s.
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