Posted on 2024-04-24

Fall Camping

Summer is all about sun, beaches and being on the water but autumn has its own attractions as well. Cooler weather and colorful landscapes make for great backpacking, camping and hiking trips. If you are already an enthusiast now is the time to start planning your getaways. Take inventory of all your gear. Check for items that need replacing or repair.  

It's also a good time to gather information including maps and brochures on trails, camping areas and scenic destinations that you would like to visit. Do your research. If you're going into an unknown area educate yourself and become familiar with the locale. This will help prevent any surprises that might come up including poisonous plants, indigenous animals and bugs. 

Whether you are a seasoned veteran or new to these outdoor activities it's always a good idea have maps and a compass along, even if you will mostly be using a smart phone. Dress for the weather. Fall weather can turn from warm to chilly at a moment's notice. Layering is your best bet to withstand unpredictable temperatures. 

Make sure you wear clothing color that make you visible. Even if you're not a hunter, making yourself visible will help prevent accidents when you're outside or in an area where hunters frequent. Wearing colors like bright fluorescent red and hunter's orange are the safest colors to wear in deer hunting areas. Stay away from earth or animal colored outerwear. Don't forget to protect everyone with you, even your dog. 

Courtesy BPT and polaris.com 
Originally published in The Times Dispatch, September, 2015