Top tips for healthy hiking in autumn

Before the onset of winter, when the temperature is very low, we are forced to take precautionary measures in order to protect ourselves from the harsh weather. We want to enjoy hiking in the fall it is especially appreciated

Hiking in autumn has a special charm, However, Hiking is a very popular sport in any season. But to be prepared for different weather conditions during autumn hikes, you need to wear the right clothes and take some precautions.

Hiking in autumn is particularly appreciated:

Autumn hikes are particularly popular because of the beautiful colors typical of the season, but also because of the lower temperatures and the – still – sunny days.
Autumn is the ideal season for hiking: well above the sea of fog, you can still enjoy the sun.
The autumn season is ideal in the mountains. The temperatures are pleasant, the trees shine with a mostly golden glow. The conditions are perfect for an idyllic hike.

Hiking in autumn in complete safety:

Travel safety requires a lot of precautions, Autumn is a beautiful season to go to the mountains and enjoy the autumn colors.
But it is still necessary to be wary of the very changeable weather. To walk in complete safety, some basic rules and autumn health tips must be respected.

Walking in the right places:

Hiking is a popular sport in all seasons. But you should plan your route as much as possible.
Hiking trails that are above the fog line are particularly well-suited for a beautiful fall hike. But before doing so, check to see if the paths are still passable. As long as there is no snow at higher altitudes, autumn is the ideal season for hiking.

Prepare your equipment:

To avoid any misadventure during your next walk, it is obviously necessary to plan your route as much as possible – don’t forget that the sun sets earlier at this time of the year – and prepare your equipment. In addition to your backpack, containing a survival blanket, food, and water, as well as a small medical kit with the minimum necessary and a charged cell phone, the choice of clothing is essential. In autumn, layering is strongly recommended. Choose clothes that fit well, are comfortable, and of course rain resistant.

Waterproof hiking boots:

Regardless of the season, hiking boots are standard equipment. When buying shoes, get advice from a specialist store and test different models to find the ideal fit. Your shoes should be adapted to the routes – and their difficulties. For autumn, look for warm, waterproof shoes that protect against cold and dampness.

Reinforced hiking socks:

To prevent your feet from sweating too much while walking and thus prevent blisters, it is recommended to wear breathable socks made of merino wool or with a high polypropylene content. Unlike normal socks, hiking socks are perfectly adapted to the shape of your foot. And yes, the mention of the right and left foot is important. These socks are also reinforced and have no seams for optimal comfort during exercise. The hiking boots should also be already broken in and have a non-slip sole.

Gloves:

Don’t forget, in autumn the weather can change quickly and the temperatures cool down as soon as the sun disappears. It is recommended to bring a small pair of gloves with you. To keep your hands warm in all circumstances, choose a waterproof model or gloves that allow you to use touch screens.

A robust hiking or trekking pants:

For pants too, there are models specially designed for hiking. Usually made of a durable and breathable blended fabric, they dry quickly and are often water-repellent. Depending on the model, part of the pant legs can be removed with a zipper, allowing you to change from long to short hiking pants in a matter of seconds, and thus to adapt quickly to the weather conditions.

Breathable tops:

Long or short-sleeved, breathable tops are always a good choice for a hike. T-shirts are usually worn right after underwear, so they should absorb perspiration easily and dry quickly to prevent the body from getting cold. Unlike cotton, which is rather heavy and dries only very slowly, synthetic blended fabrics or merino wool are very suitable. Synthetic materials are much cheaper and often retain the smell of perspiration.

A heated softshell jacket:

Depending on the weather conditions, softshell jackets are ideal as a mid-layer. These jackets, with their warming effect, are also breathable and protect against light rain for a short time. If you like soft fabrics, you can also opt for fleece tops as a mid-layer.

A waterproof jacket:

When hiking in the mountains, especially in the fall, never leave home without a waterproof jacket – one that can be stored in your backpack. These functional garments, often called hardshell jackets, are made up of several layers and have a protective membrane or coating on the outside. For colder days, choose one with a fleece lining – or simply wear a fleece or shoftshell underneath. With materials like Gore-Tex, rain jackets protect against moisture and wind while remaining breathable.
These materials do have their limits. For hikes lasting several days, it is necessary to have a truly waterproof jacket. To be sure, check the water column, the unit of measurement of waterproofness.
Never go hiking without a head covering. A hat or cap will protect you from the sun, and depending on the material, from the rain. And for those who are cold, a hat or headband will keep your ears warm, even when hidden under a hood.

Sunglasses with high UV protection:

Since UV radiation is higher in the mountains, you should not forget to protect yourself from the sun even in autumn: with sunscreen and long clothing, but also sunglasses with high UV protection. Sunburns do not only happen in the summer, and the eyes must be protected all year round.

Conclusion:

If you follow the tips for a healthy autumn hike quoted above, you will live a happier life. Indeed, hiking is a fantastic way to build strength, improve fitness, and cultivate mental health.

Hiking has obvious advantages, such as excellent exercise and going outside. However, the reasons to go hiking stretch far beyond the physical benefits (which are numerous) to discovering a healthier and happier life through the outdoors. I’ll also add that having a robust immune system is more vital than ever right now, and hiking can help you boost your body’s natural ability to fight sickness.