3 Things to Know Before Hitting the Trails in the Pacific Northwest This Fall

Fall can be an incredible time to hike around the Pacific Northwest. Temperatures have cooled down, and there are plenty of spots in the PNW where the changing leaves are truly an incredible sight to behold. It’s well worth a visit just to take it all in.

However, hiking around the Pacific Northwest during the fall can require a little extra preparation. Whether you’re hiking along the Oregon Coast or trekking around Mt. Rainier in Washington, every hike can be a rich and rewarding experience. But being ready for rain with your favorite women’s and mens rain hats and rain jackets is essential.

Here are a few more details to consider before you hit the trails in the PNW this fall.

Be Ready For Rain—Always!

If there’s one thing to always be prepared for in the Pacific Northwest, it’s rain. This is one reminder you’ll hear again and again when planning outdoor adventures in this spectacular region of the country. For the most part, this can apply to any season, but during the fall, it can pay to be extra ready for rain. The closer you get to the coast along Washington and Oregon, the more likely you are to encounter wet weather.

October is generally the start of the rainy season in the PNW, and it can last well into April. So, step one for fall hiking: don’t forget to pack plenty of rain gear! Rain hats, rain jackets, rain pants, and waterproof boots (or waterproof hiking gaiters) are all essentials.

With the prospect of so much rain, many trails can see fewer visitors in the fall, which is great for anyone looking for a more secluded experience. It does highlight the need to be mindful of seasonal or weather-related trail closures, though, so be sure to consult trail guides or signs at the trailhead for more information.

Don’t Let the Temperatures Fool You—Sun Protection Is Crucial!

This is a detail that can be easily overlooked when hiking in the PNW during the fall. Cooler temperatures and gray skies can create the impression that you might not need as much sun protection as you do during the summer. As many fall hikers and outdoor enthusiasts know, however, this isn’t accurate.

It can be a cool, cloudy day and you can still end up with a sunburn. Plus, there are also plenty of sunny fall afternoons in the PNW. Even if you forget to pack the sunscreen, you can still be protected with gear like sun hoodies, sun shirts, and sun hats. These versatile designs are made with fabric that has an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) rating. When you’re looking for reliable sun protection, search for a sun hat with a UPF rating. That way, you still have a fantastic option to keep your skin protected from the sun’s rays.

Know Where to Go to See Breathtaking Fall Colors—A Few Top Spots

One of the defining characteristics of fall is the changing leaves. Deciduous trees throughout the PNW begin to change from their illustrious greens into fierce reds, ostentatious oranges, and electrifying yellows. Starting in September and throughout October and November, the entire region becomes a symphony of color.

While there are countless places you can visit and hike to experience these colors, there are a few specific locations where the colors tend to be off the charts. This includes the Columbia River Gorge just east of Portland, the Willamette Valley and Oregon wine country, around the base of Mt. Rainier outside of Seattle, and throughout the Olympic Peninsula in Washington. Choose a spot that gets you excited for fall, and enjoy the iconic natural beauty of this region.

About Outdoor Research

Sun Hoodies

Get ready for an active fall with Outdoor Research. Since 1981, Outdoor Research has led the way in developing exceptional outdoor apparel and gear for every season. Whether you love to hike, bike, run, or climb, Outdoor Research makes comfortable, versatile gear that can keep up. Explore their selection to discover men’s and women’s rain jackets, sun hoodies, hiking gaiters, mountain bike pants, and more for your next adventure. Along with their practical designs, Outdoor Research takes a responsible and socially conscious approach to every product they make by selectively sourcing high-quality materials and minimizing their impact on the planet. Whether it’s using sustainable materials or working with partners who hold themselves to the same high standard, Outdoor Research knows going the extra mile is always worth it.

Be ready for every adventure this fall with https://www.outdoorresearch.com/ 

Original Source: https://bit.ly/3XoLx3n