Why Fall is Made for Hiking, Biking, and Wandering

Fall delivers that sweet spot, cooler days, fewer crowds, and trails painted in reds, oranges, and golds. It’s prime time for:

• Leisurely hikes near mountain towns like Steamboat or Vail
• Family-friendly bike rides in places like Telluride’s Valley Floor
• Laid-back wanders where the only goal is fresh air and good views

Whether you’re heading out solo, rallying the kids, or planning a weekend adventure, fall is your chance to get out without the summer heat or the deep winter snow. A great fall hike strikes the perfect balance between scenery, comfort, and seasonal charm. Here’s what makes it stand out:

1. Stunning Fall Foliage

The best fall hikes offer a front-row seat to nature’s color show: think golden aspens, fiery maples, and rich evergreens. Trails in Colorado’s high country, Utah’s canyons, or Montana’s wooded valleys light up with color from late September through October.

2. Cool, Comfortable Weather

Fall means crisp mornings and mild afternoons—ideal for hiking without the summer heat. Just be sure to layer up, since temps can shift quickly, especially at higher elevations.

3. Fewer Crowds

Many popular trails quiet down after Labor Day, making fall a peaceful time to explore. It’s easier to find solitude, snag a parking spot, or enjoy a trailside lunch without the bustle.

4. Well-Marked, Maintained Trails

With daylight hours getting shorter, fall hikes are better when the route is easy to follow and well maintained. Beginner-friendly trails like Bear Creek in Telluride or Vail’s Booth Falls offer great scenery with clear paths. 

5. Golden-Hour Views

Fall light is something special: soft, golden, and perfect for capturing mountain silhouettes and glowing leaves. Starting your hike early or finishing just before sunset adds an extra layer of magic.

6. Seasonal Wildlife & Sounds

Fall hikes often include bonus moments: the bugle of an elk, the rustle of leaves, or the sight of birds on their migration path. These details make fall hikes memorable in ways summer can’t always match. Ready to hit the trails? Let’s talk gear next. 

Gear Up for Fall Hiking

Fall adventures call for layers, traction, and hydration just in case your hike runs longer than expected. These picks are built for trail comfort and on-sale now:

Women’s Hiking Gear

• Forsake Cascade Trail Low Hiking Shoes Womens – Waterproof and trail-ready for muddy conditions.
• Cotopaxi Trico Hybrid Jacket Womens – Lightweight insulation + bold style = your new go-to fall layer.
• prAna Foundation Rib Tank Womens – Breathable base layer that pairs well with everything.

Men’s Hiking Gear

• Salomon Sense Ride 5 Trail Running Shoes Mens – Cushioned for all-day wear, even on mixed terrain.
• Spyder Boulder Lite Windbreaker Mens – Blocks the breeze without the bulk, ideal for early starts or breezy ridgelines.
• Mountain Hardwear AP Active Pants Mens – These best-selling trail pants are made for movement. With articulated knees, secure pockets, and just the right amount of stretch, they’re built for everything from crisp fall hikes to post-trail coffee stops.

Kid’s Hiking Gear

• Northside Benton Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots Kids – Durable and grippy, perfect for family hikes on uneven trails.
• YETI Rambler JR. Kids Water Bottle 12oz – Tough enough for young explorers and mountain picnics.
• Smartwool Hike Light Crew Sock Youth – Designed to keep little feet happy on the trail, these Merino wool crew socks offer just the right amount of cushion, breathability, and support. 

New to the trails? Check out our guide to 14 Super-Fun, Beginner-Friendly Hikes in Colorado to get started.

Bike Into Fall with Trail-Ready Gear

Cooler temps and dry trails? It’s time to dust off the bikes and explore your favorite paths, or find a new one.

• Osprey Salida 12 Performance Bike Pack Womens – Sleek, stable, and designed for long fall rides.
• Pearl Izumi Summit Short Sleeve Jersey Kids – Great for afternoon spins with the family.
• CamelBak Podium Flow 2 Waist Pack – Hydration without the backpack, perfect for short loops or casual cruising.

Mountain towns like Steamboat and Park City offer smooth singletrack and scenic routes that are perfect this time of year. And if you’re not ready to invest in a bike just yet? Christy Sports offers bike rentals at select locations, so you can test the trails first. Check out Mountain Bike Rentals 101: What to Know Before You Ride to learn more.

Wander-Enhancing Accessories for Fall

Sometimes, the best part of an adventure is where you stop along the way. These accessories add comfort, light, and utility to any fall outing:

• CamelBak Classic Light 70oz Hydration Pack – Stay hydrated on the trail without slowing down.
• Adventure Medical LuminAID Max Solar Lantern + Phone Charger – Great for sunset picnics, campsite dinners, or stashing in your daypack just in case.
• ENO Twilights™ Camp Lights – Add ambiance to any outdoor hang, ideal for kids, too.
• NEMO Chipper Seat Cushion – Take a break with this lightweight trail companion.
• NEMO Moonlite Reclining Camp Chair – Lounge under the changing leaves or stargaze in total comfort.
• Osprey Ultralight Dry Sack – Protect layers and snacks from surprise rain or stream crossings.
• Topo Designs Mini Shoulder Bag – Small, sturdy, and perfect for essentials on the go.

Tips for Your Best Fall Adventure Yet

• Check the weather, mornings can be brisk, and mountain storms roll in fast.
• Layer up, start with a moisture-wicking base like the prAna Rib Tank, then add an insulated jacket like the Cotopaxi Trico Hybrid.
• Time it right, early starts mean quiet trails and beautiful morning light.
• Pick trails wisely, family-friendly options like Bear Creek in Telluride or Emerald Mountain in Steamboat are great fall bets.
• Hydrate well, even in cool weather, you’ll need plenty of water at altitude.