Backpacking in the fall is a great way to push your comfort zone, kiss summer goodbye, and say hello to winter. In 2019 I thru-hiked the John Muir Trail in what is technically their “fall” (mid-September), and I failed to adequately prepare.
As I pack for a fall hike of the Uinta Highline Trail, writing this article is also serving as a pack-list reminder. With adequate preparation, I don’t have to be anxiously checking the forecast and sweating over the potential of snow. Here are my gear recommendations for fall backpacking. You can also check out BPR’s favorite fall backpacking routes, and the rest of the fall-appropriate trails.
Fall Backpacking Advice
Temperature swings are imminent
If you’re backpacking anywhere mountainous, “fall” is a fleeting few weeks before the snow begins to fly. The highs during the day may be extremely pleasant, while the lows at night reach well below freezing. It’s difficult to prepare for these extreme swings, when you’ll need both sun protection and plenty of insulation.
Snow is possible at higher elevations
Are you prepared to stake out your tent in the snow? I’ve tried to snow camp with a non-freestanding tent and let me tell you—it’s not worth the weight savings. Be prepared to travel through snow (consider bringing microspikes if necessary), and be prepared to get snowed on. If there’s a mix of rain and below-freezing temperatures in the forecast, math dictates there’s a strong possibility of snow gathering.
Forecasting is imperfect
I strongly discourage fall backpackers from packing based on the forecast. Be prepared for a range of weather conditions, and check the forecast only to have an idea of what to expect. Furthermore, in many remote wilderness areas a forecast will only show one small area. For example, if the closest town is forecasted for rain but you will be hiking 3,000 feet higher in elevation, it’s possible that it will snow instead. My favorite forecasting apps are AccuWeather and Windy.
Days are shorter
Be prepared for more darkness in the fall. If you’re pushing big miles, plan on hiking in the dark either in the morning or night. Conversely, if you’re spending more time at camp you’ll want extra lighting. Be sure that your headlamp has extra batteries, and an extra tent light like this 2 ounce one can provide a significant amount of comfort on long, dark nights.
I break up the gear section of this guide into three sections: your big three items (tent, sleeping bag, pack), apparel, and other accessories. I don’t list absolutely everything in my backpacking kit, as many items like toothpaste or trowels don’t change with the season. Most of these items are products I’ve used in the past or am currently using, so if you have specific questions feel free to drop a comment below.
The Big Three: Backpack, Tent, and Sleep System (Bag or Quilt)
1. Backpacking Pack: 55 – 65 liter pack meant to carry heavier loads
This is an extremely well-constructed backpack that is meant to carry heavier loads comfortably. For this reason, it’s a great first backpack to buy, or one to have in your gear closet if you plan to be carrying 35+ pounds. Because fall trips may require heavier gear and extra layers, a pack that’s up to carrying that weight comfortably is essential.
2. Tent/Shelter – Built to withstand snow, high winds, rain, and other weather conditions.
This is a sturdy and roomy tent that does great in variable weather conditions. Also, the freestanding design makes it easy to pitch on rocky or snowy terrain. It’s also helpful to have a double-walled tent to allow for more ventilation while staying cozy through colder nights.
3. Sleep System (Bag or Quilt) – rated to 20 degrees or lower
I bring this quilt backpacking practically year-round. As soon as summer leaves, I pair it with a sleeping bag liner (noted below) and an extra-warm sleeping pad. As always, prepare for 10 degrees lower than the lowest forecasted temperature.
Fall Backpacking Clothes
I stubbornly wear shorts in cold temps as long as my legs can handle it, but it’s important to have backup with variable fall weather. I take shorts, rain pants, and fleece-lined leggings for my bottom layering system. This way, if it’s extremely cold and wet I can still protect my cozy leggings, and if it’s just a little wet I can still hike in shorts. My layering system on top stays the same, but I make sure to supplement with cozy accessories (listed below) and bring my warmest base layers. For hiking layers, wear whatever wicking layers you’d normally wear, and be prepared to layer up depending on weather fluctuations.
- Down Jacket: Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer
This is one of the most popular down jackets for thru-hikers for a reason. It’s extremely lightweight yet still holds enough warmth to provide insulation when it’s needed. I have the 1000 fill-power ultralight version, which is 2 ounces lighter than the 800 fill-power jacket.
- Fleece Midlayer: Outdoor Research Trail Mix Cowl Neck Pullover
This fleece and my Melanzana hoodie trade off places in my pack. This one does a better job of regulating my heat when I’m exerting myself, but it’s slightly heavier than the Melly. I also love the cowl neck design to sleep in my quilt, as the neck can be a bit drafty.
- Base Layer: Smartwool Merino 250 Long Sleeve
These are the coziest and most effective base layers I own, so I love having them to sleep in on cold nights. I typically try to wear my fleece as a cold weather hiking layer so my base layers are fresh(ish) for sleeping.
- Fleece-lined Leggings: Smartwool Merino Sport 250 Colorblock Leggings
I bought these last winter for winter running, and was blown away by their performance. These pants alone kept my legs comfortable in temperatures as cold as 10 degrees Fahrenheit, and the merino keeps them smelling fresh. These are great for cold weather hiking and cozy sleeping on fall backpacking trips.
- Rain Jacket: Arc’teryx Beta LT Jacket
This is not the lightest or most affordable option, but I do not like being wet. For a few ounces more, it’s 100% worth it to have this three-layer GoreTex jacket, as afternoon thunder and rainstorms are common on fall trails from the Mountain West to the Southeast. Additionally, it is an effective wind blocker for climbing and descending on open terrain. Don’t feel like dropping $400? We also love the $129 North Face Journey 2.5-layer jacket.
- Gloves, Beanie, and Wool Buff
Don’t overlook these accessories when backpacking in colder temperatures. Cold hands can quickly ruin a morning, and beanies and buffs help keep out drafts while I sleep in my quilt. Here’s what I bring:
- Outdoor Research Versaliner Sensor Gloves: wind and rain proof, touch screen sensors, fleece
- Lightweight Merino Wool Buff: this is great to keep around my neck while sleeping, and to use as a headband over my ears during the day
- Exum Guides Dome Beanie: I use a tight, fleece-lined cap that’s not particularly flattering but it does the trick
Fall Backpacking Accessories
The listed accessories are specifically helpful for fall trips, when the days are shorter and the weather more variable.
Sleeping Pad – R-value of 3.2 or higher
- Example: Therm-a-Rest Prolite Apex
A sleeping pad’s R-value corresponds to the insulating powers of the pad. This tells you how warm it will keep you throughout the night. Typically, sleeping pads range from 1.0 to 6.0+ with higher numbers meaning more warmth. For fall trips, anything above 3.2 should be plenty warm. My Therm-a-Rest Prolite Apex is nowhere near the lightest nor most packable option, but with an R-value of 4.0 it keeps me toasty warm and is well worth the weight.
Sleeping Bag Liner – Great to pair with quilts
Instead of a warmer sleeping bag or quilt, I prefer to take my liner along for cool-weather trips. It’s much more packable and only adds an extra 14 ounces. My entire sleep system for fall includes a 20-degree quilt, R-value 4.0 pad, and this sleeping bag liner. This keeps me cozy all the way down to 10-15 degrees.
Battery Pack – Cold weather drains battery
- Battery Pack: BioLite Charge 40
Cold nights can suck battery life, and depending where you are and what the trail navigation looks like, you might be checking your phone more than you think. This model has about ~3 full phone charges in it, which comfortably lasts me 3-4 days. The BioLite Charge 80 lasts about 6 charges.
Reliable Headlamp – Shorter daylight hours
- Headlamp – Nitecore NU25 360 LM
No matter how warm the region is, the days are shorter, and sometimes even your average-mile days will be starting or ending in the dark. This lightweight offering from Nitecore is rechargeable, lasts much longer than other 300+ lumen options, and is ridiculously affordable.
Cook System – You’ll Want Warm Meals and Drinks
- Example: Jetboil Stash
I never backpack without a stove. I love warm dinners and I need coffee in the morning. However, I appreciate the luxury of warm sustenance tenfold when I’m stepping out to a below-freezing morning. Even if you don’t use it for warm meals, it’s great to have a stove to fill a Nalgene with hot water to sleep with. If you haven’t tried this yet, you’re welcome.
