Fall Hiking Guide

TEAM TGA

Fall Hiking Guide

Fall brings crisp air, cool days, and vibrant turning leaves. Nestled between summer's heat and winter's chill, it is the ideal season for hiking. We’ve got some tips for you—when to hike, what to wear, and some favorite Copper Fit spots around the country.

When to Go

To experience the magic of trekking through a glorious canopy of turning leaves, ensure you time your hiking just right if you want to view the Fall foliage in full effect.

The timing of leaves turning can change yearly, but the typical peak season is mid to late October, depending on the region:

Northern Latitude States typically change color in early October.
Mid-latitude states like Oregon and northern California, Wyoming, Colorado, Iowa, Ohio, Virginia, and North Carolina typically peak in mid-October.
Southern States with lower elevations typically peak in late October to early November.

For the most up-to-date information on the changing hues for your destination location, call the local Fall Foliage hotline. Here is a comprehensive list put together by World Travelers of America.

What to Wear

Since Fall is a transitional time of year, the weather might change rapidly, from a cool morning to a toasty mid-day. And the reverse can be true too - a mild and pleasant morning can switch to freezing rain within hours! The key is layering:

The base layer is essential because you will wear it the whole hike. Make it breathable and moisture-wicking to pull moisture away from your body and dry quickly. No one wants to sit in sweat-saturated fabric all day, and wet clothes quickly make you cold if the temperature drops. The drier you stay, the more consistent your body temperature.
The next layer should be a comfortable, lightweight jacket or pullover with moisture-wicking and long sleeves for sun and wind protection. This layer should be fitted but not too tight.
Finally, the outer layer shields you from the elements. Opt for something rainproof and insulated, easily packed into your backpack. It’s also a good idea to bring a pair of rainproof pants you can quickly wear when needed.
The right socks are essential. Compression socks energize your feet and legs for a long hike, and the moisture-wicking keeps your feet dry in changing weather conditions for comfort and blister prevention. The pressure applied to your lower legs and feet allows for blood flow stimulation and support of overall circulation. Copper Fit’s Energy Compression Socks are the whole package - with a targeted compression band that gently hugs your arch and ankle to help reduce foot and leg fatigue and breathable arch support technology for all-day comfort. And, of course, make sure your hiking boots have been a bit worked in for optimal comfort and are waterproof.

Pack your bag with additional gear, like a beanie and gloves, for warmth in more extreme locations. Don’t forget any extra support you may need for the day. Knee support is one of the most common aids due to the joint pain or general fatigue that a strenuous day of hiking can bring on. The Copper Fit Elite Knee Sleeve features a circular knit design to provide strong compression to help support your knee without limiting mobility. Its enhanced, anti-chafing proprietary seamless knit offers extra support without limiting freedom of movement.

Three Beautiful Fall Hikes Around the Country

Cadillac Mountain - Maine

New England is the classic Fall destination, with Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire famous for their vibrant colors. Cadillac Mountain is the tallest mountain on the eastern seaboard in the United States, so the views are breathtaking. It’s a moderate hike, 2.2 miles up to Cadillac’s 1,528-foot summit. Once there, the 360-degree views will take your breath away!

Great Smoky Mountains - Tennessee

These mountains are known for their spectacular display of Fall colors and a wide variety of trees. One hundred species of native trees live in the Smokies - and the autumn leaf season usually lasts several weeks as Fall colors travel down the mountainsides from high elevation to low. Suggested hikes include Sutton Ridge Overlook and Oconaluftee River Trail.

Yosemite - California

Head west to Yosemite and experience breathtaking vistas in this stunning glacier-carved valley. Iconic scenery is everywhere, with must-see spots like Tunnel View, Glacier Point, Half Dome, Sentinel Bridge, and Valley View. You can walk along the Cooks Meadow for an easy stroll or hike straight up the Vernal Falls trail for a challenge. The summer crowds have subsided; it’s a favorite time for many in this spectacular spot!

Whether just taking a walk around your block or spending time in the local park- you don’t have to travel far to find Fall beauty. Look up local hikes in your area; you may be surprised to find a trail just outside your door. Happy hiking!