by Pamela Kay

Created on: September 13, 2010

With temperatures no longer in the ninety-plus zone, fall hiking is a chance to get back in touch with nature and view the glorious colors of fall foliage. Whether it’s a short hike or a weekend at your favorite campsite, the great outdoors beckons all nature lovers to come and play. Here is a brief overview of fall hiking tips to make your hike more safe and enjoyable.

*Clothing and Footwear

The best approach, to assure adequate clothing, is to dress in lightweight layers, which can be removed as the day warms up and tied around your waist for easy carrying.

Sturdy, lightweight hiking boots will protect your feet and ankles and will provide good support for rough trails. However, you are better off with an old pair of running shoes than using a new pair of hiking boots that have not been broken in.

Knee-high socks will protect from brush and be sure to take an extra pair.

A wide brimmed hat of some type will shade your head and protect from sunburn as well as help keep ticks from dropping onto your head.

*Backpacks

Even for a one day hike it is advisable to use a lightweight backpack, to keep your hands free. Even for one day hikes you will need to carry food, water and a first-aid kit. Spend some time finding and adjusting the perfect backpack for you and in the middle of your hike you will be glad you did.

*Emergency Gear

Even if you plan to hike for only a few hours, be sure to carry a small first aid kit that includes candles and lighters or waterproof matches.

A large plastic leaf bag weighs little and could come in handy as a makeshift tent, a poncho should it rain or even a water catcher.

Don’t forget bug repellent, sunscreen and lip balm.

*Snacks and Meals

Energy/sports bars and trail mixes are easy to carry, highly nutritious and very lightweight. These will give you the energy to continue your hike but if you are hiking for several days this may get monotonous.

If you use dehydrated meals, you will need to add water and water is usually heavier than food. Unless you will have ready access to water consider these light weight alternatives; fruits, such as raisins, peanut butter, powered milk, chocolate, cheese and even nuts with no salt.

*Water

Each hiker should carry a good supply of water as you can dehydrate from the exercise.

Use a lightweight container such as a bladder type bag or even a two-liter bottle.

For hike of more than a day, take a water filtration system. This one weighs only 11 0z.

The longer you carry something the heavier

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