Autumn is a favorite hiking season for many thanks to the temperate weather and stunning display of fall foliage colors. If you’ve booked a log cabin in the Pocahontas County area of West Virginia this fall and plan to hike, the following tips can ensure each wilderness adventure ends safely and successfully.

How Can I Prep For Fall Hiking In West Virginia?

1. Review The Weather Forecast

Keep checking the weather forecast on the days you plan to hike so you don’t find yourself in a rainstorm. Remember that there are less hours of daylight this time of year, so hikes less than 2 miles long are best for afternoon outings. Pack headlamps and flashlights if you hike in the afternoon even if you don’t plan to be out until evening or night.

2. Stay Aware Of Hunters

Learn about West Virginia’s hunting seasons to avoid accidents. Dress in bright colors, read all trail signs, and never wander off the beaten path. Staying on the trail keeps you out of hunting range and away from large wildlife. Remember that some trails may be closed for hunters.

3. Dress In Layers

Prepare for fluctuating fall temperatures by dressing in layers. Choose moisture-wicking fabrics for base layers and wear t-shirts, hoodies, and parkas you can easily shed as you warm up. Consider adding a raincoat and hat to your pack depending on where you’re going and when.

4. Bring Plenty Of Water

Fill portable water bottles before you leave your log cabin to avoid dehydration effects such as dizziness and nausea. Drink at least two cups of water before you leave and aim for one quart of liquid an hour while you’re out. Just because it’s not summer doesn’t mean your body isn’t losing water from sweating.

5. Check The Fall Color Guide

Enjoy fall in West Virginia when the colors are most vibrant. Use the Fall Color Guide from the U.S. Forest Service to plan your hikes. Colors reach their peak at various times throughout the season depending on your location. 

Book your log cabin stay at Jerico Bed & Breakfast & Pre-Civil War Log Cabins in Marlinton, WV, for an unforgettable experience. This vacation site has served Pocahontas County and the Tri-State area since 1990, providing log cabins dating back to the 1800s and equipped with modern amenities. Call (304) 799-6241 today for more information or learn about the cabins online. Get the latest community news on Facebook.