Hiking Colorado in the Shoulder Season: Essential Gear for Fall Adventures

Fall hiking in Colorado is a season of contrasts. One weekend you might find warm sunshine and golden aspen groves; the next, you’re crunching over icy snow with gloves on. Shoulder season—those weeks after peak leaf season and before deep winter—offers solitude on even the busiest trails. But to enjoy it safely, you’ll need to carry the right gear.

Crowds Fade, but Weather Moves In

During peak leaf weekends, places like Guanella Pass, Kebler Pass, and Kenosha Pass are overflowing with cars and photographers chasing the golden aspens. But once the leaves drop, so do the crowds.

In fact, in 2024 I hiked Quandary Peak and Mount Bierstadt—two of Colorado’s most popular 14ers—just a week after peak foliage season. On both hikes, I saw fewer than 10 people total. That kind of solitude is almost unheard of in summer.

But there’s a trade-off: the higher you climb, the more likely you’ll face snow, ice, and colder winds. Shoulder season isn’t about chasing summer conditions; it’s about being prepared for winter to arrive at any moment.

The 10 Essentials for Fall Hiking

The 10 Essentials are the foundation of any safe hike, but in shoulder season they become even more critical. Here’s a refresher, with a fall-specific twist:

1. Navigation – Carry a map, compass, or GPS app (like Gaia GPS). Trails can be harder to follow once they’re covered with early snow.

2. Headlamp – Days are shorter, and an early sunset can catch you off guard. Always pack spare batteries.

3. Sun Protection – Even in cooler months, high-altitude sun can burn fast. Sunglasses and sunscreen are non-negotiable.

4. First Aid Kit – Include blister care and emergency items tailored for colder conditions.

5. Knife/Repair Kit – Useful for fixing broken gear or cutting cordage in a pinch.

6. Fire Starter – Waterproof matches or a lighter; storms can roll in quickly.

7. Shelter – At least an emergency bivy or space blanket in case of a sudden overnight.

8. Extra Food – Cold weather burns calories quickly, so pack high-energy snacks.

9. Extra Water – Hydration matters even in cold air; don’t let your water freeze.

10. Extra Clothing – Layers are everything: base layer, insulating layer, and waterproof shell.

If you want to check out more of my gear check it out HERE

Microspikes: Your Fall Game-Changer

By October, icy patches are common on Colorado trails. This is where Microspikes shine. They slip over your boots, giving traction on packed snow and slick ice. They’re flexible, light, and perfect for shoulder-season hiking.

• Microspikes – Best for hiking trails, 14ers, and moderate snow.

• Crampons – Technical climbing gear for steep, frozen terrain. Overkill for most fall hikes.

• Yaktrax – Fine for icy sidewalks or parking lots, but they don’t last on real trails and aren’t reliable for mountain conditions.

If you plan to hike any fall 14er, Microspikes should live in your pack.

These are the Spikes I carry HERE

Gloves and Cold-Weather Comfort

One of the easiest things to overlook in fall is your hands. Even a light wind at altitude can turn fingers numb. Pack a pair of warm, water-resistant gloves—they don’t need to be mountaineering gloves, but they should keep your hands functional if temperatures dip.

Pro tip: Carry a thin liner glove and a warmer insulated glove. That way, you can adjust as conditions change without exposing bare skin to the cold.

Why Fall Hiking is Worth It

With the right gear, shoulder season is one of the best times to hike in Colorado. You’ll enjoy solitude on trails that are normally packed, see landscapes dusted with early snow, and experience crisp, fresh mountain air.

Bring the 10 essentials, toss your Microspikes and gloves into your pack, and you’ll be ready to take advantage of one of Colorado’s most underrated hiking seasons.

👉 Trail Tip: In fall, pack for winter—even if the trailhead feels like summer. Conditions change fast at altitude.