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It is Autumn, a magical time of year where we are regailed with a wonderous display of colour from Mother Nature. Hiking in Autumn is a special treat, but it also poses some new challenges, especially here in Canada where the weather and tempuratures are very unpredictable. So without further adieu, here is a great article from Ontario Parks with some helpful advice for Fall hiking.
Fall is our favourite hiking season.
It’s not too hot. The bugs are gone. Solitude is easier to find.
But fall hiking has its own complications, especially when it comes to weather.
Before heading out, check out this handy fall hiking checklist:
1. Protect Your Feet
Pamper your feet, and they’ll take you around the world (or at least to the top of the fall colours lookout!).
Just going short distances? A pair of suede or synthetic shoes will offer great comfort, without a big “breaking in” process. They dry fast, and aren’t tough on the wallet.
If you’re going for longer treks, then you’ll want footwear that offers support, comfort, weather resistance, and durability.
On flat, low-altitude trails, hiking shoes will give you more freedom of movement.
On rough, rocky terrain, you’ll need better ankle support and greater stability on climbs — go for boots.
On muddy and wet surfaces, leather shoes or boots will be more resistant to water and easy to clean.
2. Backpacks
Number one criteria? Size.
For a short hike, a daypack is best. It’s light, practical, and big enough to carry the essentials (you’re looking for something between 15 and 35 L).
For longer hikes, look for a pack between 30-50 L with an integrated frame (to prevent the bag from putting too much pressure on your back and shoulders).
3. Stay Hydrated
Yes, the heatwaves of summer are probably gone for the year, but packing enough water is vital in any season.
For shorter hikes, this might just mean filling up your favourite water bottle.
For longer treks, consider a hydration reservoir, which can carry anywhere from 0.5 to 10 L. No need to rummage in your pack for your water bottle (they always sink to the bottom!); just enjoy a sip from the handy tube.
Reservoirs are light-weight, reusable, and can be easily added in most backpacks.
4. Keep Warm and Dry
Fickle fall can transform a sunny morning into a wet, cold afternoon.
After a forest hike, the wind atop the lookout can bite. Dress in layers.
If it’s warm, you can take a layer off to prevent sweating (moisture’s the enemy of fall hiking).
If it’s cool, you can add a layer back on. Softshells are easily packable and light.
They keep wind and water off, and are easy to take on and off as needed.
Dressing for your trek? Check the forecast before hitting the trails, and never start a trail if you’re not sure you can make it back before dark.
Happy trails!
Article from Ontario Parks Blog, posted on September 18, 2024N.A.C. NEWS
(Sunday, October 27, 2024)
Good Morning,
It's been a very hectic and busy week. Unfortunately it didn't leave a lot of time for any adventures. Previously, we had visited the Toronto Fall RV Show & Sale. We had a great time rummaging through hundreds of campers and trailers and checking out some cool camping equipment from many vendors. The show took place in the Toronto Congress Center and was huge, it took us all day to check out more than 600 campers and RV's that were on display.
Last Friday's Indoor Rock Climbing at Climber's Rock was cancelled due to a lack of response, however, that worked out on a personal level as Lauren and I were exhausted. We have been very busy building her new offices and working till late every night.
We did have a little fun though when we were invited to MLR Vertical Expo by our good friend Jhaimir over at Elite Emergency Rescue. The event is sponsored by Maple Leaf Ropes and showcases many top vendors such as Petzl, Sterling Ropes, CAMP, and Edelrid, Singing Rock and many more. They had many demonstrations of various products and techniques used in rope rescue by rescue agents all over the world. It was a very cool show, and we learned alot about the latest techniques and equipment.
Coming up, we have an always popular event, a beautiful hike in the Niagara Gorge with all the Autumn colours. The Niagara Gorge Hikes are always our most popular hikes and showcase the incredible power of the Niagara River and mesmorizing features of a valley that took 18000 years to create. We already have 8 participants registered for this hike and there is still a few more spots, so get your spot now.
The following Friday, on November 8th, join us once again at Climber's Rock for another great night of excercise and fun as we scale the gym walls. First time visitors recieve a free day pass and if needed, a free climbing lesson from yours truly. (harness and shoe rental available for $12.00)
That's all the news for this week.
Remember, the adventure never ends, it's just a change of location!
Lenny Burch