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What to Wear Fall Hiking in Colorado (Women's Layering Guide 2026)

A Colorado local's tested fall hiking layering system for women, from base layers to beanies, with picks for 30-degree mornings and 70-degree afternoons.

Hiking near Beaver Creek, Colorado in early September.

Fall in Colorado is seriously the best!

Fewer crowds, cooler weather, and the trails practically beg you to explore them. Plus, with the summer rush over, you get the mountains almost to yourself—just you, the aspens, and maybe a curious squirrel or two if you know where to hike.

One of my favorite things about fall hiking here is how the temps can vary so much depending on where you are. Near Denver, it might still feel like summer, but head up to Breckenridge and suddenly it’s jacket weather.

fall hiking in colorado — Mountain views along Meadow Creek Trail near Breckenridge

Fall Hiking - What Should I Wear?

Every year, I look forward to pulling out my favorite fleece, soft joggers, and trusty beanie. And let’s be real: the excitement of fall means at least one weekend getaway to the mountains for a crisp, golden hike.

There’s just something magical about hiking through the trees with the leaves crunching beneath your boots.

The short version: what to wear fall hiking in Colorado

In a Colorado fall you are dressing for two seasons in one hike. I start with a merino or synthetic base layer, pull on a light fleece half zip, and keep a packable puffy and a rain shell in my pack for the afternoon storms that roll over the peaks. Stretchy joggers, wool socks, a beanie, and liner gloves round it out. Here is what I actually reach for.

Layer	My pick	Why
Base	REI Co-op Merino Tank / Black Diamond Lightwire Tee	Wicks sweat, resists odor
Fleece	Free Fly Ashridge Half Zip	Warmth without the bulk
Puffy	Patagonia Nano Puff / Cotopaxi Fuego Down Vest	Packs small for frosty starts
Shell	Patagonia Torrentshell	Blocks afternoon storms and wind
Pants	Prana Koen Joggers / Free Fly High Mile Joggers	Stretch, warmth, room to move
Socks	Darn Tough	The only ones I rebuy
Shoes	TOPO Terraventure 4 WP	Wide toe box, grip on fall trails
Extras	Melanzana beanie, Smartwool liner gloves, MSR DynaLock poles	Small stuff that saves a cold summit

Scroll down for why I love each piece, plus what to wear when it's 40 degrees at the trailhead.

Fall hiking attire blends in perfect at Castlewood Canyon State Park near Colorado Springs

In the fall, we love hiking the Meadow Creek Trail in Breckenridge, especially midweek when the trail is nearly empty. And on those sunny days, the Women’s Trail in Woodland Park is perfect for a tank top and pants.

The higher the elevation, the crisper the air, so picking the right hiker attire is key.

I’ve found, over the years of hiking around Colorado Springs, that It’s all about layers. Trying to figure out what to wear for hiking can make or break your comfort on those high-altitude adventures.

Thankfully, the cooler temps make it a perfect time to break out all my favorite hiking clothes because let’s face it, fall hikes are made for cozy gear and stunning views.

Hiking in autumn in Colorado is all about balance. One second you’re warm, the next you need that extra layer, and that’s part of the fun.

When it comes to fall outfit female hikers like me love, there’s nothing better than switching out the summer closet for those cozy, comfy layers perfect for the season.

A hoodie and sweats are perfect for short and easy hikes.

What are the Best Fabrics For Hiking in Autumn?

For fall hikes in Colorado, merino wool, polyester, or nylon are your go-tos for staying comfy and dry.

Tags can be a bit mysterious but super important! Look for wool blends, bamboo, or other moisture-wicking fabrics to handle surprise rain or snow.

Fabric blends are especially great for fall. Lightweight long sleeves work for early fall, and as temps drop, merino wool keeps things cozy.

Fleece? That’s perfect for easy layering when the sun decides to peek out again!

My favorite Brands for Fall Hiking Attire

Prana fabrics are favorites for their versatility and comfort *I wore a pair of Prana joggers 4 days straight on urban hikes in Pittsburgh. Logging 10 concrete miles/day, I loved that this pant held up to all kinds of weather and environments.

Free Fly’s clothing are favorites of mine. Their bamboo blends are buttery soft, breathable, and temp-regulating, ensuring comfort no matter the weather. Plus, the anti-odor properties and sun protection makes them perfect for long hikes.

Patagonia is a brand I love for their commitment to sustainability and incorporates recycled materials and organic cotton into their fabrics.

Their Capilene fabrics keeps me dry, while the warm, lightweight fleece is perfect for those chilly days. It feels great to hike comfortably while knowing I’m supporting a brand that cares about the planet!

*I wore almost all Patagonia fabrics for my Kilimanjaro summit trek - easy to pack tight and super comfy to wear in all types of weather!

Top Picks for Your Fall Hiking Wardrobe

I used to piece together my fall hiking outfits like a patchwork quilt—hodgepodge layers that never quite worked. But after discovering Free Fly a few years ago, I’ve fallen in love with the quality, comfort, and durability of their pieces. It’s taken time to build a cohesive hiker attire collection that keeps me warm and stylish on the trails. *That effort has been 100% worth it!

Layers are the name of the game

By the end of a day hike, my backpack is overflowing with all the extra layers I shed along the way. But honestly, it’s the perfect excuse to show off those favorite fall pieces.

Wearing the Free Fly Ashridge Fleece half zip

Basic Top Layers for Fall Hiking in Colorado

Tank Tops

Love my Lululemon Swiftly Racerback Tank

For fall hikes, my Lululemon Swiftly Racerback Tank is a staple. It’s lightweight, breathable, and great for layering when the temps change.

REI Co-Op Merino Base Layer Tank

I love wool blends for hikes, especially when the weather’s iffy. I know I’ll stay warm even if I get wet. This REI merino tank is soft, breathable, and holds up great for fall hikes while keeping odors in check during hot summer days. Lightweight, durable, and perfect for layering, it’s super versatile on the trail.

Short Sleeves

Black Diamond Lightwire Tech shirt

The Black Diamond Lightwire Tech Shirt is one of my absolute favorite trail shirts. It’s soft, breathable fabric is great for everything from hiking to everyday wear. The fit is great, especially with a backpack, and it wicks sweat like a champ. We love it so much, we wrote a whole gear review on it.

Patagonia Capilene Cool Trail Short Sleeve

The Patagonia Capilene Short Sleeve was perfect for my fall hikes in Aspen—lightweight, breathable, and great for layering in cooler temps. It wicks sweat and dries fast, which made it just as reliable on our hot Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim hike. Whether it's warm or cool, this shirt’s got you covered!

Long sleeves

Wearing Lululemon Swiftly Long Sleeve on this gorgeous fall hike.

Bamboo Free Fly

I can’t skip their long sleeve shirts. They add warmth without the bulk, making them essential for my fall hiking outfits, perfect for both trails and cozy gatherings with friends.

These pieces aren’t just for hiking! I’ve found myself reaching for them when I travel too.

Lightweight Long Sleeves

Years ago I discovered the Lululemon Swiftly Relaxed Long-Sleeve Shirt. I have several in my closest now, perfect for those chilly mornings when you need your arms covered. I also wear mine as a sunshirt in summer months.

Lightweight Fleece Layer: Free Fly’s Ashridge Fleece Half Zip

The Ashridge 1/2 Zip Fleece is perfect for those crisp days when you want to stay warm without feeling like a burrito. It’s just the right weight—ideal for layering on the trails or relaxing at home.

Pants for Hiking in Fall

Exploring North Cheyenne Canyon in my Free Fly HIgh Mile Joggers.

A Fall Fave - the Prana Koen

Let’s talk about the Prana Koen Joggers—my secret weapon for women's fall outfits! These joggers are lightweight and super flattering, making them ideal for those brisk autumn hikes.

But they’re not just for the trails; they seamlessly transition from a cozy walk in the park to cheering on my team at football games.

What I love most is their comfort and functionality. The durability of these joggers means I can wear them time and again without worrying about wear and tear.

Flattering Free Fly High mile Joggers

These High mile Joggers are a game changer for unpredictable temperatures. On hikes in North Cheyenne Canyon, we usually start around 40 degrees and warm up to almost 80. They keep me comfortable the entire time; never too hot or too cold!

Lululemon Dance Studio Mid-Rise Joggers

The Lululemon Dance Studio Mid-Rise Joggers are my weekly go-to.

I love the color options, and these joggers are super versatile. They are perfect for everything from lounging to running errands. The lightweight, stretchy fabric is great, whether I’m out for a walk or just hanging out. All-around solid choice! *Heads up, they run a bit tight, so I’d size up for a comfier fit.

Kuhl Resistor Air Joggr

The Kuhl Resistor Air Joggers were my go-to for hiking the Mighty 5 in Utah. I wore them nonstop! While they no longer make the Resistor, the Freeflex is very similar.

They’re perfect for everything from hitting the trails to grabbing dinner afterward. Super versatile and flattering, with a comfy fit that’s easy to adjust thanks to the drawstring waist.

These joggers really nailed that balance between outdoor performance and casual style.

Mid Layers

Hiking near Victor on a beautiful fall day.

Patagonia Vest: Bivy Hooded Down

The Patagonia Bivy Hooded Down Vest is my go-to for hiking in autumn. (Similar style here.) It’s warm, ideal for high-altitude trails, and stays in my car from fall to spring for those chilly mornings. For warmer winter days, I pair it with a Smartwool layer on my favorite snowshoe hikes.

COTOPAXI Fuego Down Vest

I like bright colors for my hiking clothes, especially during archery season when I’m out on more remote trails.

The Cotopaxi Fuego vest checks that box, and it’s warm too. Not the kind of warm where you’re cozy at 40 degrees and sweating an hour later. This vest does a great job of regulating my core temperature through a full day on the trail.

Patagonia Torrentshell Rain Jacket

I can't hike in Colorado without my Patagonia Torrentshell! Every family member owns one—it’s that good! A bit pricey, but it keeps you dry in rain and snow, perfect for hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing.

Check out my full review to see why it’s a must-have!

Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket

The Patagonia Puffer Jacket is an investment, but it’s often on sale! It’s super lightweight, making it easy to stash in your backpack.

Tanya and I wear this jacket year-round, and for autumn hikes, it’s the perfect weight to throw over a long sleeve when the fall air turns chilly.

Dive into my full review to discover why this jacket is a must-have!

Footwear

woman wearing topo hiking shoes hiking colorado trails — My TOPO hiking shoes keep my feet warm and dry on many Colorado hiking trails.

Darn Tough Socks

When I’m deciding what to wear for hiking, Darn Tough socks are always on my list. They keep my feet just right—not too hot or cold—and the wool isn’t scratchy at all. The lifetime warranty makes it a smart choice for outdoor adventures!

TOPO Running Shoes

As I’ve gotten older, my feet have changed, and finding the right shoes for hiking has become even more important.

My TOPO Terraventure 4 WP shoes have been a game-changer with their wide toe box—giving my toes room while keeping bunions at bay but still offering a snug heel fit.

They’re a more neutral shoe and have quickly become my trail BFF for all my autumn hikes.

Choose versatile options like TOPO running shoes that can handle everything from sunny strolls to rocky trails.

The right footwear is key to enjoying every moment of hiking in autumn! *After plenty of hiking on Colorado trails, we’ve put together this simple footwear guide to help!

Hiking Autumn Accessories

Smartwool Liner Gloves

I carry my Smartwool glove liners in my backpack year-round! Made of a cozy wool blend that’s not scratchy at all, they add warmth without bulk.

I can wear them comfortably while still using my phone, perfect for chilly hikes and cold-weather adventures!

Beenie

Live in Colorado for any length of time, and you'll quickly realize that to be a true native, you need at least one item from Melanzana, the famous outerwear store in Leadville.

While in-store appointments are booking eight months out, you can snag a few pieces online. Their beanie adds a perfect pop of color to any fall hiking outfit, and I wear mine all year long! *I love my Melanzana hat - lightweight, bright and easy to stash in a side pocket or backpack.

Sun Hat

After recent treatments for skin cancer (PSA: wear sunscreen, people!), I've upped my sunhat game with a broader-brimmed hat to protect my shoulders as well.

Although my beloved Columbia sunhat is no longer available, there are plenty of fun options out there. Being closer to the mountains means being closer to the sun, so make sure to cover up!

Hiking Poles

Many of my favorite fall hikes come with a good amount of climbing. On Colorado trails, the best views usually sit at the top, and getting there means going up. This season I traded my Black Diamond poles for the MSR Dynalock Carbon poles. They’re compact, collapsible, and light enough that I forget they’re in my daypack until a steep stretch or a rocky descent calls for them. If you’re still deciding whether poles are worth it, or which pair suits the way you hike, we break it all down in our guide to the best hiking poles.

FAQ’s

woman hiking in fall in colorado with aspen trees — Hiking Rampart Reservoir - one of the most magical fall places to explore near Colorado Springs

What temperature is fall hiking in Colorado?

Fall in Colorado is one of the most dynamic seasons for us. Most mornings are in high 30s/low 40s but often cooler at higher elevations. By mid day, the air temperatures can reach to the low 80s in some places. When I hike in the fall in Colorado, I always wear layers and lather up in sunscreen. Be prepared to take on and take off those layers throughout your hike.

Do I need a rain jacket for fall hiking in Colorado?

I always bring my rain jacket with me on hikes, no matter the season. Hiking in Colorado often takes you to various elevations. A rain jacket not only keeps you dry, it can be a great wind barrier for those shoulder season winds that Colorado is known for.

What's the best base layer for fall?

Knowing what to wear hiking in Colorado in the fall means lightweight but durable fabric. A lightweight hiking pant paired with a short sleeve shirt usually does the trick. Bringing along a long sleeve shirt or fleece is always advisable.

Can I wear leggings hiking in fall?

Sure! I wear leggings often while hiking Colorado trails.

What do you wear hiking when it's 40 degrees?

This is a great question. Colorado air is quite dry which helps keep that bone chilling cold away. Close toed shoes, socks, pants, short sleeve shirt with a medium weight fleece or down jacket works great.

If you tend to get warm qyickly while hiking, wear shorts and a fleece with gloves and a hat. Making sure your extremities are covered up really does a great job in maintaining your body’s core temperature.

More Fall Hiking Tips

As fall comes and goes in a flash here in Colorado, don’t miss out on the beauty of hiking in autumn.

With the right fall outfit female hikers need—layers that handle warm afternoons and chilly, leaf-covered paths—you’ll be ready for anything. From crisp air in the mountains to sunny days in Colorado Springs, versatile hiker attire makes all the difference.

We’d love to hear from you!

What’s your favorite fall outfit female hikers swear by? Let’s share ideas and make the most of the season!

Falling for Fall: My Favorite Hiker Attire for Autumn Adventures in Colorado