Fall Hiking Outfits

One of the best things about hiking in autumn is the combination of cooler temperatures, colorful scenery, and comfortable trail conditions. Crisp air can make long hikes feel more enjoyable, while changing leaves add vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows to forests, mountain slopes, and local trails.

With changing weather, however, comes the need to have a versatile outfit complete with layers to handle whatever the day has in store. When building the perfect fall hiking outfit, consider the weather forecast (rain, wind, warm temperatures, snow, or a combination) and choose from these types of outerwear layers:

Base Layer: A great base layer is a moisture-wicking top that sits next to your skin to help you stay dry.

Mid Layer: A lightweight fleece or grid fleece helps trap body heat while remining breathable.

Insulating Layer: If cold temperatures, biting winds, or snow are likely on the trail, a packable down jacket like our Nuptse is a great choice.

Outer Shell: For protection from rain and wind, consider a shell jacket with waterproof or water-resistant fabric. Our Antora, Alta Vista, Hikesteller, and HKe jackets are best-selling options.

To round out your outfit, choose hiking pants that are durable and stretchy. On really cold days, wear leggings underneath. Wear hiking socks and pack an extra pair in your backpack in case of wet conditions. Choose hiking footwear based on the weather and trail conditions. For moderate to difficult trails with rocks, scrambling and potentially muddy conditions, choose a sturdy pair of waterproof hiking boots with ankle support and traction like our Fastpack shoes. For easy trails and paved conditions, trail running shoes can be a more lightweight choice.

Don't forget the accessories. A beanie, gloves, and a neck gaiter can offer additional protection from the elements.