Outfits and Gear for Hiking and Backpacking in the Fall
What to wear hiking in autumn and gear for camping and backpacking in september and october
September 15th, 2023
Fall brings cold weather, rain, and the potential for snow. As temperatures go down, you likely know to pick up some additional layers like a jacket or thicker socks. This time of year is called the “shoulder season.” It’s still three season backpacking, but requires extra gear and skills to comfortably enjoy. Our focus is on how to increase the quality of your fall hike for minimal weight and additional cost. We also include several options for different budgets. Lastly, the lightest weight item is knowledge–which is why we’ve share fall hiking tips.
Each September and October, thru-hikers rush to finish the long trail they started many months ago. Day hikers also must manage mud and shorter days.
This is a collection of outdoor gear and apparel items that our staff has personally purchased for adventures that extend into the late season, including multiple shoulder season hikes of the Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Great Divide Trail, Pacific Northwest Trail, and Superior Hiking Trail. It also includes gear tests performed while doing Trail Magic on Glen Pass in the Sierra (~12,000 feet) in October.
We believe in making safe and smart decisions when hiking in the fall, including taking into account the weather, conditions, your skill level, and where you're hiking.
If you are thru-hiking, section-hiking, backpacking, or day hiking in fall, this list is for you.
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FALL HIKING AND BACKPACKING GEAR LIST
Hiking and Backpacking Gear checklist
GEAR ITEM | PRODUCTS WE LIKE | |
---|---|---|
What all hikers and backpackers should carry | ||
Satellite Messenger | ||
Inreach Mini 2 | ||
Headlamp and extra batteries | ||
Biolite 425 |
What to wear hiking in the fall checklist
GEAR ITEM | PRODUCTS WE LIKE | |
---|---|---|
Outer layers | ||
Synthetic Puffy Jacket | ||
Patagonia Micro Puff Jacket (men's) | ||
Patagonia Micro Puff Jacket (women's) | ||
Montbell Thermawrap (men's) |