Even though hiking in the rain might sound like a little bit of fun, it’s super important to know how to stay dry and comfortable when the weather could be better. You never know when a storm might surprise you while you’re out on the trail!
Sometimes, you might even decide to go hiking in the rain on purpose! A few years ago, I was in Stanley, Idaho, and the weather forecast said it would rain the entire time. We didn’t want to stay cooped up in our van for a whole week, so we put on our rain gear and headed out for a hike!
There was also a time when I planned a group backpacking trip to Alaska, and the weather wasn’t the best. Without the right gear and a good attitude, it could have been a pretty tough experience. But instead, we made sure we were prepared, stayed dry, and had a great time! We even learned to love hiking in the rain.
In this guide, I’ll share some tips for hiking in the rain that will help you enjoy being outside, no matter what the weather is like. You’ll see that with the right gear and the helpful advice here, you can still have a blast even on the rainiest days!
Benefits of Hiking in the Rain
I know a lot of people might be wondering, “Why would I want to hike in the rain?” Well, you’ll have fewer chances to get outside, there are actually some cool benefits to hiking in the rain.
First, the smells. Everything smells different when it rains! The air is filled with a special earthy scent called petrichor, which can feel really calming and refreshing.
Second, fewer people. Rainy days often mean quieter trails. So if you like exploring without a crowd, this is the perfect time to enjoy those usually busy paths.
Third, things look different. Just like how a trail can seem new if you walk it in the opposite direction, hiking in the rain makes the same trail feel fresh and different. The scenery might even look brighter and more colorful!
Finally, waterfalls! Rain makes waterfalls and other water features look even more amazing. They become more powerful and exciting to watch.
Tips for Hiking in the Rain
Even if you already know a lot about hiking, hiking in the rain needs a bit of extra planning and a positive attitude. There are some things you’ll need to approach differently when you’re getting ready to hike in wet weather.
Pick Your Trail Wisely
When it’s raining, the ground gets slippery, so it’s important to choose your trail carefully. Stick to trails you already know and that are well-maintained. Avoid difficult terrain, like rocky areas where you could slip. Be extra cautious on trails near water, as they might flood or become muddy.
Trails with lots of trees can be a good choice since the tree cover helps keep you a bit drier.
Check for Stream Crossings
Rain can turn small creeks and streams into fast-flowing rivers. If your trail has stream crossings, you might want to pick a different path. What was an easy hop over some rocks yesterday could now be deep, rushing water.
If you come across a tricky stream crossing, take a moment to assess the situation. Make sure you have the right gear and skills to cross safely.
Summit Views May Not Exist
Climbing to a summit in the rain might not give you the beautiful views you’re hoping for. The clouds and mist can block the scenery, and even if you see something, it might not make for a great photo.
If you’re hiking just for the sense of accomplishment, go for it! But if you’re after the views, it might be better to wait for a clearer day.
Pay Extra Attention to Your Location
Getting lost in the rain is easy, especially on trails you don’t know well. Trail markers (called blazes) can be harder to spot, and if you’re looking down to avoid puddles, you might miss them.
I once went 2 miles off course in heavy rain before realizing the mistake. We had to hike back uphill those 2 miles, which wasn’t fun.
Have Food Readily Available
Keep snacks and other food within easy reach in your backpack’s side or front pockets. Stopping to dig through your pack in the rain isn’t fun, so you’ll want quick snacks that are easy to grab while you keep moving.
Don’t Be Afraid to Call It
Don’t let pride keep you on the trail if the weather gets worse. Sometimes, it’s smarter to turn back, especially in the rain.
If you’re close to the summit but the weather turns bad or a thunderstorm starts, it’s okay to call it a day. Safety comes first.
Embrace the Challenge
In hiking, you might hear the phrase “Embrace the suck,” which means accepting the tough parts of the hike with a positive attitude. Some days, you’ll see amazing sights, while other times, you’ll be trudging through heavy rain. Those tough hikes make great stories later on!
Check the Weather Right Before Heading Out
Weather in the mountains can change quickly, so always check the forecast right before you head out. What looked like light rain the night before could turn into a thunderstorm by morning.
I remember trying to hike up Clingman’s Dome, a 20-mile round trip. We thought the storm would come at 3 pm, but it hit at noon instead. We had to turn back with just 4 miles to go. When your hair starts standing up from static electricity, it’s definitely time to head home!
When to Cancel Your Hike
When should you think about canceling your hike? It’s hard to set a strict rule since everyone has different levels of experience and comfort.
If I’m leading a hike, I always put safety first. I think about the terrain and the skills of the hikers with me. Does the hike seem safe? For example, I wouldn’t take beginners on a trail with tricky stream crossings if it’s pouring rain. But if the trail is flat and doesn’t have any major risks, I’m more likely to go ahead with the hike.
For myself, I’m pretty adventurous and will hike in almost any weather. However, there are four situations where I won’t go: heavy storms, flash flooding, a 60% or higher chance of thunderstorms, or high winds.
What to Wear Hiking and Backpacking in the Rain
Stay Warm and Dry, Your main goal when hiking in the rain is to stay as warm and dry as possible. It’s tough to be completely comfortable because rain gear doesn’t breathe well, no matter what the product descriptions say.
Think About Layers
Layers are key to staying comfortable. Start your hike with one less layer than you think you need under your rain jacket, so you don’t get too hot and sweaty right away. If you’re still cold after 10 to 15 minutes of hiking, you can always add a layer.
When you stop, you’ll probably feel cold, so have an extra layer handy to put on quickly.
Choose Wicking Fabrics for Base Layers
Wicking fabrics are great because they pull sweat away from your skin. However, in 100% humidity, like when it’s raining, your sweat won’t evaporate easily. This means you could get wet from the inside out.
The type of base layer you choose depends on the season, but a lightweight wool shirt is a good option because it wicks moisture, keeps you warm even when wet, and doesn’t cause you to overheat. If you need more warmth, add a thicker wool shirt or a windbreaker.
Avoid cotton fabrics, including denim and khakis. These get heavy when wet, don’t wick moisture, and will make you feel cold. Quick-drying fabrics can be an option, but in the rain, they won’t dry quickly enough.
Waterproof Pants and Rain Jacket (or Poncho)
Rain gear is a must, but be aware that no rain jacket is truly breathable. Look for jackets with pit zips and pants with leg zips to allow some airflow.
In the southeastern U.S., where I live, the biggest challenge is staying dry from sweat. I prefer a lightweight wool shirt and a rain jacket with long zippers on the sides.
Whether you choose a rain jacket and pants or a poncho is up to you. Ponchos have the advantage of covering both your body and your backpack.
For rain pants, I’ve found that Columbia’s pants from Walmart for $20 work well. They’re a bit heavier but very durable in the rain.
My favorite rain jacket is Columbia’s Mazama Trail Rain Shell. Columbia makes great rain gear, and the Mazama is stylish enough to wear in town, doesn’t soak through, and has long pit zips for excellent airflow. It’s pricey, but worth it.
Remember, being water-resistant isn’t the same as waterproof. Water-resistant gear can handle light drizzle, but for heavy rain, you’ll need waterproof gear.
Socks, Lots of Socks
Wet feet are the worst. If you’re planning to hike more than 6-8 miles, bring extra socks. Around that distance, things can start to go wrong, or you’ll notice discomfort.
I love wool socks because they keep your feet warm even when wet. It’s also nice to have a pair of dry socks and extra shoes in the car for the ride home.
Hiking Footwear
There’s a lot of debate about boots versus trail runners and waterproof versus non-waterproof footwear. Waterproof boots will help keep your feet dry and provide insulation on cold days, but they’re not foolproof and can be stiffer than non-waterproof options.
I personally prefer waterproof boots for the added warmth and dryness, but you should choose what works best for you.
If you opt for non-waterproof footwear, some people try putting bread bags over their feet. This can make your feet slide around in your shoes and isn’t breathable, but it might work for you.
What Not to Wear
Avoid cotton, as mentioned earlier, and don’t wear down jackets (also known as puffies) on rainy hikes. When down gets wet, it loses its warmth and gets clumpy. Even after drying, it won’t regain its original loft.
Instead, go for a water-resistant shell or an insulating layer under your rain jacket. Here in North Carolina, it doesn’t get too cold, so I usually wear a short-sleeve wool shirt under a windbreaker. I might take off the windbreaker if I’m wearing my rain jacket. But remember, everyone’s different, and I tend to stay warm while hiking.
Gear for Hiking in the Rain
While wearing the right clothing is essential, having the right gear can make your hike much more enjoyable, especially in challenging weather conditions.
Keep Your Extra Clothes Dry
Keeping your extra clothes dry is crucial, especially in cooler weather. If your clothes get wet and you start feeling cold, you need to change into dry clothes immediately to avoid hypothermia, which can happen even in milder temperatures if it’s rainy and you get soaked.
The best ways to keep your clothes dry are by either lining your backpack with a trash compactor bag or using a pack cover. Many daypacks have a pack cover stored in a pocket at the bottom. If yours doesn’t, or if you prefer an internal liner, opt for a trash compactor bag instead of a regular trash bag. Trash compactor bags are thicker and more durable, making them less likely to tear.
Trekking Poles
Trekking poles are useful on any hike, but they’re especially helpful in the rain. They can help you stay balanced on slippery trails and assist with stream crossings. Plus, they protect your knees over long distances.
Gaiters
Gaiters can help keep your feet drier and your shoes cleaner by preventing water and mud from getting inside. While I don’t usually wear them on day hikes, some people find them very useful, especially in rainy conditions. For example, a friend of mine likes to hike in shorts with tall gaiters because they allow her legs to breathe while keeping them dry and easy to clean.
Waterproof Gloves
Finding truly waterproof gloves is tough because most eventually get wet. My solution is to wear nitrile exam gloves under a pair of waterproof over-gloves. While the nitrile gloves aren’t breathable and can make your hands feel a bit funky over time, they provide good mobility and keep your hands dry.
I’ve tried gloves like Showa gloves, which are similar to those used by fishmongers. They’re decent but not very warm, and it’s tricky to use trekking pole loops with them on. However, they’re handy for tasks like filtering water and wearing them around camp.
Waterproof Cases for Electronics
To keep your electronics like your phone, chargers, maps, and wallet dry, use a waterproof case or dry bag. In a pinch, a Ziploc bag, particularly the thicker freezer variety, will work. Waterproof cases are also a good investment as they’re reusable and provide reliable protection.
Materials for a Shelter
Even on a day hike, consider bringing a tarp and some rope. If the rain gets heavy and you need to wait it out, having something to cover you will make the experience much more comfortable. I once had to sit out a heavy storm under some rhododendrons for an hour, and I can tell you, it wasn’t the best hiking experience. Having a tarp would have made it much better!
What to Do When the Rain is Heavy
Heavy rain can make hiking dangerous, especially if it’s hard to see or you start slipping. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s best to stop and seek or create a temporary shelter.
As I mentioned earlier, I’ve taken shelter in a patch of rhododendrons before. While it wasn’t the most comfortable, they did a surprisingly good job of blocking most of the rain.
On some trails, heavy rain can cause water to flow down the path like a river. In this case, wait about 10 minutes after the rain stops before continuing. The water usually clears up quickly once the rain lets up.
If the rain isn’t too intense and you decide to keep going, make sure to slow down and watch carefully for any hazards.
Don’t Forget to Drink Water
When it’s raining, it’s easy to forget to drink water since the cooler weather can make you feel less thirsty. However, you’re probably sweating under your rain gear and using just as much, if not more, energy to hike. That means you need to drink as much, if not more, water than usual.
A good rule of thumb is to try and take a sip of water every 20 minutes to stay hydrated.
Wrap-Up: Hiking in the Rain
Hiking in the rain can be a lot of fun if you have the right mindset. With good planning, the right gear, and the right clothing, it could turn into an unforgettable adventure.
So, the next time you see rain in the forecast, don’t shy away—grab your rain jacket and rain pants, and hit the trails!
