Need Help Choosing?

Not sure what you need? Stop by your nearest Christy Sports location. Our staff can help fit hiking footwear, recommend the right pack size, and build a layering system suited to your specific trip, whether that's a Colorado fourteener or a weekend in Utah's canyon country. Find a Christy Sports store near you.

Whether you're chasing aspens in Colorado, exploring Utah's canyon country, or hiking forest trails in Washington and Montana, the right gear makes every mile more enjoyable. Stop by your local Christy Sports store or shop online to find footwear, layers, packs, and trail essentials selected for mountain conditions throughout the West.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear hiking in the fall? A layering system works best: a moisture-wicking base layer, a lightweight midlayer like a hoodie or fleece, and a waterproof or wind-resistant shell you can pack away when you don't need it. Add waterproof footwear and merino wool socks once trails start holding moisture, since temperatures can swing 20 to 30 degrees between a fall morning and afternoon at elevation.

What is the best footwear for fall hiking? Waterproof hiking shoes or boots are the most important upgrade for fall. Trail running shoes like the Salomon Speedcross 6 GORE-TEX work well for faster-paced hikes on muddy terrain, while boots like the KEEN Targhee IV offer more ankle support for longer days with a loaded pack.

Are hiking boots or trail running shoes better for fall hikes? It depends on the terrain and pace. Trail running shoes are lighter and better suited to faster hikes or shorter trips, while boots like the KEEN Targhee IV offer more ankle support and structure for longer days, heavier packs, or rockier terrain. Many hikers keep both on hand and choose based on the specific trail.

Should hiking boots be waterproof? For fall hiking, yes. Trails hold more moisture from rain, morning dew, and stream crossings as temperatures drop, and waterproof construction like GORE-TEX keeps feet dry and warm in conditions that would soak a non-waterproof shoe.

Do I need trekking poles for fall hiking? Trekking poles aren't required, but they help significantly on wet or leaf-covered trails where footing gets less predictable. They also reduce knee strain on descents, which matters more as fall trails trend toward looser, muddier terrain.

What should be in a basic hiking safety kit? At minimum, pack a headlamp, a first aid kit, a way to navigate that doesn't depend on cell service (map or compass), sun protection, an emergency blanket, and a fully charged phone with a backup battery. Shorter fall daylight hours make a headlamp especially worth carrying, even on hikes you expect to finish before dark.

How much water should I bring on a fall hike? A common starting guideline is about half a liter of water per hour of moderate hiking, adjusted upward for heat, altitude, or higher exertion. Cool fall temperatures can mask how much water you're actually losing, since people tend to drink less when they're not visibly sweating, so it's worth packing more than feels necessary.

Where can I hike near a Christy Sports location this fall? Beginner-friendly options include Bear Creek in Telluride, Booth Falls in Vail, and Emerald Mountain in Steamboat Springs. For a longer list of easy Colorado trails paired with gear recommendations, see our beginner-friendly hikes guide.

What's the best daypack for fall hikes? The Osprey Talon 22 is a versatile option that comfortably carries layers, water, and trail essentials for most day hikes. For shorter outings or mountain bike rides, a lumbar pack like the CamelBak M.U.L.E. 5 keeps hydration close without the bulk of a full pack.

Last Updated: August 14, 2026