Eight fall concerns WMNF hikers should be aware of…
Hiking is a great sport at any time of year, and each season has something wonderful to offer. Winter offers up its easier-to-stay-cool temperatures, thinner crowds, and diamond-quality views. It’s less forgiving, but worth it to many. Spring gives us its new growth greens as nature’s baby. It’s a lovely time to hike. Summer is the carefree time, we can hike almost unclothed if we want to and the dangers of the mountains, barring the relentless sun, heat, and humidity, are the least they will be all year. And fall, the season upon us now, is actually considered a favorite season to many hikers. There’s a lot to like. The bugs aren’t usually much of a problem (though keep reading as this topic, specifically, will come up again), the air is generally cooler and drier than in the summer months, and the foliage views here in New Hampshire can be jaw-droppingly awesome.
Oh, but the challenges…
The seasons also offer us unique challenges. While hypothermia is a serious year ’round threat in the Whites, winter can freeze us solid, literally, and is a pretty unforgiving time. Spring will cover us with mud, make us slip and fall on ice, crash through snow bridges, drown us in its cold, swollen rivers, and feed us to the black flies (one of the riskier seasons). Summer will drag us down in the heat and sweat out our clothes, all while turning us into mosquito food. Fall, too, offers us some difficulties to overcome. What follows is a simplified overview of eight challenges fall hikers may face.
I. Hidden Hazards
Fallen leaves will conceal rocks, roots, holes, puddles, and other trail hazards. Extra care must be taken when placing your feet at this time of year as it’s sometimes difficult to realize what’s under this colorful carpet.
II. Slippery Leaves
The same leaves that conceal those hidden dangers can also be slippery. And forget wearing microspikes. The leaves will just stick to them. At this time of the year we seek out the rocks and roots hidden out of view.
III. Missing Treadway
The leaves can get you lost. Trails and corridors can be difficult to follow in some open woodland areas like beech forests and birch glades. And the less defined wilderness trails absent of blazes can be even worse.
IV. Shorter Days
Consider the shorter daylight lengths when planning your hikes. Though you should always carry at least one headlamp with extra batteries, the chances of needing it are increasing. Starting earlier or choosing smaller objectives can be wise.
V. Cooler Nights
The shortening days are cooling those overall temperatures. It’s time to bring extra layers, even some “winter gear” is wise on some hikes, especially if you will be adventuring above treeline. Elevation can make a big difference.
VI. Variable Weather
Speaking of cooling, the daytime temperature difference can sneak up on people, too. When it’s 70 and sunny at the trailhead, it can simultaneously be 40 and damp in the clouds at higher elevations. Plan for this.
VII. Black Ice
Black ice, or clear glazing on rocks, especially on rocks in streams, can be a slip-and-fall hazard. Because it’s clear, it may be difficult to spot. Expect it and prepare added light traction and trekking poles to your kit.
VIII. Yellow Jackets
Unless allergic, this is probably less of a threat, but until we get a good frost, in-trail yellow jacket nests are the stuff of nightmares. Often times they can be seen before stepping on them if you’re observant. Do carry Benedryl.
It’s not difficult to stay safe…
As was noted, fall is an amazing time to hike. And avoiding its challenges is not too terribly complex if we can simply identify the hazards and keep them in mind. Simple steps are all it takes: Slowdown; watch your step; plan and pack for the season and remember that mountain weather can be tricky and unpredictable; keep better track of your position as you hike; and stay observant to the trail ahead of you, specifically looking for flying insects.
Arguably the highly accessible Basin Pond in Evan’s Notch is one of the prettiest spots to check out in the fall.