As the days grow shorter and the crisp fall air settles in, outdoor enthusiasts in Colorado face new challenges while hiking and camping. The shorter daylight hours of autumn mean less time to explore trails, set up camp, or simply enjoy the scenery. But with some thoughtful planning, you can make the most of your fall adventures while staying safe and comfortable.
Here’s how to adjust your hiking and camping plans to fit with the changing season.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
Table of Contents
How Short Do Days Get During Autumn in Colorado?
As autumn progresses, the days in Colorado gradually become shorter, significantly impacting the amount of daylight available for outdoor activities. This change is particularly noticeable for hikers and campers who need to adjust their plans accordingly. Let’s take a closer look at how the day length changes throughout the fall season in Colorado:
As you can see, there’s a significant reduction in daylight hours, especially between August and November. In fact, from August 1 to October 1, we lose more than 2 full hours of daylight.
This change in daylight availability is crucial to consider when planning your fall hiking and camping trips. Here are seven tips to keep in mind during this variable season:
1. Plan Your Timing Around Daylight Hours
In mid-October, the sun sets much earlier, and that shift can catch hikers off guard, especially if you’re used to summer schedules. Start by checking the local sunrise and sunset times for the area you plan to visit, and adjust your start time to ensure you’re off the trail before dark.
Pro Tips:
- Start earlier in the day: If you’re tackling a long hike, aim to hit the trail at dawn to maximize daylight.
- Keep track of your pace: Knowing your hiking speed helps you estimate how long a hike will take, so you can plan to finish before sunset.
- Turn around time: If you’re on an out-and-back trail, set a firm “turn-around” time to ensure you’re back well before dark, even if you haven’t reached your final destination.
2. Pack for the Dark: Headlamps and Lighting
Even with careful planning, shorter days increase the likelihood of being caught on the trail after dark, especially in dense forest areas where the fading light is less noticeable. Be prepared with the right lighting gear:
Essential Gear:
- Headlamp or flashlight: Always pack a reliable headlamp, even for day hikes. I use this Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp – it’s ideal for a variety of different activities including hiking, peak bagging, backpacking, and climbing.
- Backup lighting: Bring an extra set of batteries in case your headlamp fails. If you have a rechargeable headlamp, make sure you have a battery pack like the Skullcandy Fat Stash 2 — a top rated portal battery pack from REI Co-op.
- Technical Headlamp: If you’re camping or navigating unfamiliar rugged terrain, consider this top-notch Black Diamond Distance 1500, which offers almost four times as much light output as the Spot – perfect for night climbing and big peak pushes.
PRO TIP: Keep a small, lightweight lantern in your pack for ambient lighting at camp. The Black Diamond Moji Lantern is compact, durable, and provides 100 lumens of soft, even light – perfect for meal prep or reading in your tent after dark.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
3. Choose Shorter, Moderate Hikes
While tackling a 14er or a long, strenuous hike might be a summer goal, fall is the perfect time to explore shorter, more moderate trails that can be completed within daylight hours. Colorado offers countless mid-length hikes with stunning fall views that don’t require all-day treks.
Top Fall Day Hikes:
- Fish Creek Falls (Steamboat Springs): A 1-mile round trip hike featuring a stunning 280-foot waterfall. In autumn, the surrounding aspen groves provide a beautiful display of golden foliage.
- Chautauqua Trail (Boulder): A 3.6-mile moderate hike with beautiful views of the Flatirons. During autumn, enjoy great colors among the cottonwood and aspen trees. Perfect for
- Bear Creek + Panorama Point (Lair o’ the Bear Park): A 4.9-mile out-and-back trail with easy terrain and fall foliage, leading to a great vantage point of the continental divide to the west.
- Gem Lake Trail (Rocky Mountain National Park): A 3.4-mile hike to a scenic lake surrounded by vibrant autumn colors. Remember to secure a time-entry reservation or you will need to arrive before 6 AM.
4. Wear Layers for Colder Temperatures
In October, temperatures can drop quickly in the late afternoon and early evening, especially at higher elevations. It’s essential to bring appropriate layers to stay warm as the day cools off, particularly if you’re still out on the trail or setting up camp as the sun sets.
Layering Tips:
- Start with a moisture-wicking base layer: This helps regulate your temperature as you hike, preventing sweat from making you chilly.
- Add an insulating layer: A fleece or down jacket will keep you warm as the temperature drops.
- Don’t forget a shell: A windproof, waterproof outer layer is key to protecting yourself from unexpected rain or wind.
PRO TIP: Pack an emergency shelter! Carry some type of lightweight emergency shelter like this SOL blanket or their emergency bivy in your backpack in case you need to spend an unplanned night outside to ensure you survive until help arrives.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
5. Plan to Set Up Camp Earlier
If you’re camping overnight, aim to reach your campsite with plenty of time to set up in daylight. Pitching a tent or cooking dinner in the dark can be tricky, especially if the temperatures are dropping. Set a goal to arrive at your campsite at least an hour or two before sunset to get organized comfortably.
Tips for Smooth Camp Setup:
- Practice your setup: Before your trip, practice setting up your tent and cooking gear so you can do it quickly and efficiently if you’re racing against the clock.
- Pre-prep your meals: Pre-portion ingredients and prepare easy-to-cook meals that can be done in minimal light, in case you’re running behind.
- Use headlamps strategically: Use a headlamp or lantern while setting up camp, and place reflective markers around your site to help you navigate after dark.
6. Be Prepared for Colder Nights
Temperatures in the Colorado wilderness can plummet in October, especially after sunset. Properly preparing for cold nights is crucial for both comfort and safety. Your 40-degree bag and $90 sleeping pad is probably not going to cut it any longer.
Tips for Staying Warm:
- Choose a cold-rated sleeping bag: Make sure your sleeping bag is rated for the temperatures you expect, and bring a sleeping pad for insulation from the cold ground.
- Wear warm layers to bed: Avoid wearing the same clothes you hiked in (which may be damp from sweat). Opt for dry, warm layers such as thermals or wool.
- Use a hot water bottle: Fill a water bottle with hot water and place it in your sleeping bag to provide extra warmth through the night.
- Bring a battery & electric blanket: This is the ultimate winter camping hack, but it works great for autumn as well. A $30 blanket from Amazon and any battery with a reasonable capacity should last you the entire night.
7. Keep Your Eye on the Weather
Fall weather in Colorado is unpredictable, and conditions can change rapidly. It’s not uncommon to start a hike in sunny weather only to face rain or snow by the afternoon. Check the forecast often, but also be prepared for sudden weather changes that might cut your day short or impact your safety.
How to Be Weather Ready:
- Download a weather app: Use apps like Weather Underground or Mountain Forecast for real-time updates. Even better: bring a satellite device with weather reports.
- Be prepared for all conditions: Pack a rain jacket, extra layers, and emergency supplies in case the weather takes a turn for the worse (even if it isn’t in the forecast).
- Know your exit points: Be aware of alternative routes or nearby shelters where you can take refuge if needed. Avoid exposed trails and routes with few bail out options this time of year.
PRO TIP: A Garmin Satellite Device like the InReach Mini 2 provides on-demand weather forecasts for your specific location in the field. It’s an amazing resource, especially when you aren’t sure if conditions are going to get better or worse.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
Conclusion: Enjoy Fall Adventures Responsibly
Hiking and camping in the fall offers incredible rewards: vibrant colors, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds. But shorter days and changing conditions mean it’s important to adjust your plans and be well-prepared. By starting earlier, packing properly, and planning for the dark, you can continue to enjoy Colorado’s beautiful outdoors safely through the fall season.
Stay informed, stay prepared, and enjoy your next adventure in the great outdoors!
Additional Resources:
- Colorado Trail Explorer (COTREX): A free app for trail maps and conditions.
- Leave No Trace 101 Course: Essential guidelines for protecting public lands.
- HighpointWx: Up-to-date weather reports for Colorado’s peaks, passes, and trails.
- CalTopo: Online GIS mapping software ideal for planning fall hiking routes.
- Fall Hiking Tips: Check out these great tips and advice from the American Hiking Society.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
FAQs
Q: How can I prepare for shorter daylight hours during fall hikes?
A: To prepare for shorter daylight hours in the fall, plan to start your hike early in the morning to maximize daylight. Always check the sunrise and sunset times for your hiking location, and carry a headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries in case you get caught out after dark. It’s also important to plan shorter hikes or adjust your pace so you can finish well before sunset.
Q: What time does it get dark in October in Colorado?
In mid-October, sunset in Colorado typically occurs between 6:30 PM and 7:00 PM, depending on your location and elevation. It’s best to check a reliable weather app or online resource for the exact sunrise and sunset times before heading out, as mountain areas may darken sooner due to terrain.
Q: What should I pack for fall hiking in Colorado?
A: For fall hiking in Colorado, be prepared for changing weather and colder temperatures. Key items include:
- Base layer: Moisture-wicking clothing
- Insulating layer: A fleece or down jacket
- Outer layer: A waterproof, windproof jacket
- Headlamp: With extra batteries for earlier sunsets
- Warm hat and gloves: Fall temperatures can drop quickly in the evening.
Also, don’t forget a map, first aid kit, plenty of water, and high-calorie snacks to keep energy up.
Q: How can I stay warm when camping in October?
A: To stay warm during October camping trips, bring a cold-rated sleeping bag (ideally one rated for at least 20°F or lower) and a sleeping pad to insulate you from the cold ground. Dress in warm, dry layers before bed, and consider using a hot water bottle inside your sleeping bag for extra warmth. Setting up camp early, before the temperature drops significantly, can also help you get settled in warmer conditions.
Q: What are the best short hikes in Colorado for fall?
A: Some of the best short hikes in Colorado for fall include:
- Chautauqua Trail (Boulder): A 3.6-mile hike with iconic Flatirons views.
- Bear Creek Trail (Lair o’ the Bear Park): A 4.9-mile out-and-back with stunning fall foliage.
- Gem Lake Trail (Rocky Mountain National Park): A 3.4-mile hike to a scenic lake surrounded by colorful trees.
These hikes are perfect for enjoying the fall colors without worrying about running out of daylight.
Q: How should I adjust my hiking schedule for fall?
A: In fall, start your hikes earlier to make the most of available daylight, as the sun sets much earlier than in summer. Plan shorter hikes, or give yourself extra time to complete longer ones by setting a firm “turnaround” time to ensure you’re back before dark. Keep an eye on weather forecasts, as conditions can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations.
