As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, it can feel like there’s less time to get outside. But fall is one of the best times of year for hiking, biking, and trail running. The crisp air makes tough climbs easier and the trails show off their best colors. Shorter days just mean we have to be more intentional with how we plan.

Here’s how we approach fall adventure planning to ensure we’re getting enough time outside:

Bring a Headlamp

Daylight disappears quickly this time of year. A reliable headlamp means you won’t get caught rushing back in the dark. It also opens the door to early starts or late finishes—perfect for squeezing in miles after work or catching a sunrise before the day begins. Even if you don’t plan on using it, carrying one is a simple backup that makes fall outings safer and more flexible. It also means great practice for adventure racing in the dark.

Take Advantage of Sunrise

Later sunrises are one of fall’s underrated benefits. You can experience the best light of the day without waking up at 4 a.m. or to beat the heat like we did on our recent Mount Olympus hike. We plan hikes, trail runs, or bike rides to line up with sunrise whenever possible. Cooler air, quieter trails, and the changing light across the landscape make mornings feel like an adventure in themselves. There’s nothing better than getting out early to catch the world just waking up.

Layer Up

Fall weather shifts quickly. It can be near freezing at dawn, warm at midday, and cold again by dusk. We stick to a three-layer system: a moisture-wicking base to stay dry, a mid-layer like a fleece for warmth, and a light jacket to cut wind or hold in heat. Being able to add or shed layers on the move means we’re never forced inside early because of the weather.

Pick Short Routes With Payoffs

With fewer daylight hours, fall is a good time to choose trails and routes that deliver big rewards without an all-day commitment. Waterfalls, overlooks, and local summits give you the feeling of a full adventure in just a few hours. This is also peak season for leaf-peeping, so even smaller trails can feel like a big event.

Don’t Overlook the Night

While the days are shorter, the nights are clearer and longer. Fall is one of the best times for stargazing, especially on mountain trails or in wide-open spaces. Planning a night hike or staying out an extra half hour after sunset adds a new dimension to familiar trails.

BONUS: Add a Seasonal Touch

Fall is made for small traditions. Packing a thermos of hot coffee or grabbing pumpkin muffins and apple cider donuts turns a chilly morning into a highlight. This time of year, we love our seasonal snacks from Trader Joes. Hello Spooky Bats & Cats Sour Gummy Candies. Ending the day with a firepit or camp stove dinner also makes even a short hike or ride feel like a complete experience. These small rituals help make the season feel special.

Shorter days don’t have to limit adventure—they just shift how we approach it. With the right gear, a flexible mindset, and a few seasonal habits, fall becomes one of the best times of year to get outside.