layering for the ‘ ber months
The Canadian Rockies are a stunning landscape to explore no matter the season, but fall is my personal favourite. The usually muted palette of boreal forest and granite is suddenly painted in brushstrokes of gold, and the mountaintops wear the first hint of glistening white snow. Larches and aspens turn vibrant hues of ochre, amber, and saffron - but the beauty is fleeting, which creates a sense of urgency to go out and experience the sights, no matter the weather. Some years, larch season requires summer clothing, and others demand some more preparation and packing. However, speaking from personal experience, it’s possible to be comfortable outside with the right gear, and specifically the right layers - even if you’re perpetually cold like yours truly.
Choosing layers wisely and considering what type of adventure you are going on is key - here’s my strategy for maximum comfort during fall hiking or camping trips. For any adventure in the great outdoors, there is usually limited pack space (and the desire to carry as little as possible!), so these are the first questions I ask myself when prepping my hike kit for a backcountry trip during the ‘Ber months:
What elevation will I be ascending to?
Typically, temperature decreases around 10 degrees C per 1,000 meters of elevation - and this doesn’t even take into account changes in weather conditions like precipitation or wind.
How strenuous will the activity be?
If you know you will be working hard and likely getting extremely sweaty during your activity, you’ll need to pack differently.
How many hours do I expect to be continuously outdoors?
This is a key distinction I really noticed when I started going on more autumn and winter camping trips. You will need a lot more layers (or much warmer ones) when you are relaxing at camp for the evening than you will climbing a mountain and getting into a warm car directly after.
Once I answer those questions, check the forecast, and create my plan for the trip, I’ll pack accordingly. For day hikes, I carry a 32L backpack which will easily fit all the layers outlined below. For camping trips, I’ll typically use my hiking backpack and bring the same clothing, plus a couple extra pieces tucked into the truck!
Read on for my packing recommendations for fall exploring, as well as some (literally) hot tips to help you avoid getting too chill while you enjoy the season.
Hiking
For typical fall weather in the mountains, I usually try to pack 3 layers, and wear 2. For example, I will start the hike wearing my Perna Leggings under Matkailu HV pants, the Koro Top, and my Cordero Vest if it’s chilly at the start of the hike. I usually plan to wear a vest while ascending, since this allows for breathability around the shoulders/arms, while keeping my core warm.
In my hiking pack, I’ll include a heavier sweater like the Kaula, as well as a rain shell and a packable down jacket, to ensure I am prepared when the temps drop at the summit, or if I encounter any bad weather. I also prepare a bag of accessories in the hiking pack, which includes a light pair of gloves, a heavy pair of mittens, a knit toque, a neck tube, and an extra pair of wool socks (this is a lifesaver if your boots get wet!!).
Hiking Hot Tips
Always bring your down jacket! Even if you think you “probably don’t need it!” The Sulka down jacket packs and zips away into its own pocket, so it barely takes up any space, and this can be a huge difference maker if you hit unexpected weather during your hike.
Buy hand warmers and make sure your pack is always stocked with a few sets. They are inexpensive and a great way to keep warm - I usually prep a set and just keep them in my vest pocket while I ascend, so they are nice and toasty when I reach the summit.
Z-Seat foam pad. These fold up like a map and fit nicely against the back of your pack, and help retain body heat when you sit down during your hike… because rocks are very cold chairs.
Make sure you have an emergency kit with you that includes a headlamp, firestarter, hurricane matches, emergency candles, and a foil thermal blanket. For long day hikes in the Rockies, there’s always a chance that you may be delayed until after the sun has set, or have to shelter for the night due to weather or an emergency. It might seem like overkill, but better to stay safe than be sorry!
Camping
In addition to the hiking gear above, I will also include additional layers and some warmer pieces. Even though you have more heat sources while camping like a fire, blankets, a tent, or a propane heater, it’s incredible how much the lack of movement and extended weather exposure time can affect you during a fall camping trip! Although I was an experienced hiker when I started cool-weather camping, I was really caught off guard by how chilly you can get while your body is at rest versus when you have been generating heat all day exploring a mountain peak.
For camping trips, I always pack an extra set of baselayer, and I’ll usually pick something with Merino wool content, as it’s such a great thermoregulator.
A thick sherpa fleece piece like the Pecora Sweater or Tunic is great for camping, as well as fleece pants to layer over your baselayer, like the Hatmi Pant.
Camping Hot Tips
Fresh socks for bedtime! The feet play a big role in regulating our body temperature, and if you’re wearing a pair of socks to sleep that you’ve been in all day, it’s a recipe for having the chills. Bring a cozy pair to slip on right before you zip into your sleeping bag!
Fill your water bottle with warm water before bed. In addition to helping prevent freezing if the temps plummet, you can cuddle your Nalgene for extra warmth.
Wear a knit hat to sleep. Your face and head are usually the only parts of your body exposed to the air when you’re all nestled in your bag for the night. I love to bring my Barrett toque into the tent with me to keep cozy all night.
Alright, I’ve shared all my best tips and tricks to keep cozy out there! Even as the temperature drops, it is possible to stay warm and comfortable with some thoughtful layering. As always, stay safe out there, and enjoy the stunning autumn views.