November hiking can provide some of the most rewarding natural experiences of the year. The crackling crunch of leaves beneath your boots. The vertical patterns that trees cast upon the forest floor. The distinct lack of flying, biting insects after a first frost.
November hiking can provide some of the most rewarding natural experiences of the year. The crackling crunch of leaves beneath your boots. The vertical patterns that trees cast upon the forest floor. The distinct lack of flying, biting insects after a first frost.
It is not just hikers who enjoy this time of year. Autumn is a treasured season for other forms of outdoor activities, namely, hunting. Many enjoyers of this activity look for rifles for sale online and gather everything they will need for the excursion into the wilderness throughout the year in preparation for hunting season.
The topic of hunting can be divisive. Philosophies can differ on wildlife management and preservation of wild spaces. Wherever your understandings and opinions lie, a mutual love of the outdoors makes us all conservation allies.
Because both hikers and hunters share the same spaces over these next few weeks, here are a few simple steps you can take for a safe hiking season.
Know the dates for hunting season
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources website has a full guide on hunting and trapping which includes dates for all seasons. While hunting occurs year-round, white-tailed deer firearm season in the fall is when hikers should be especially proactive.
Know if hunting is allowed where you want to hike
Not every natural area has the same rules. If hunting is allowed in a certain space, you’ll often see clear signs with caution measures. Checking websites and social media pages or calling the organization that manages a certain natural area will provide a clear answer.
If you feel uncomfortable with potentially sharing spaces, there are plenty of outdoor areas that are significantly less likely to allow hunting, such as city parks.
Wear bright colors
A hiker’s fall fashion statement is blaze orange. Brightly colored hats, vests, and coats are must-have garments to stand out from the nature you want to enjoy. Put away your white, black, brown, and earth-toned hiking clothes for the season.
This rule includes every creature on the hike. Gear up your dog with blaze orange as well. Even a bandana is better than nothing.
Stay on the trails
You should always stay on designated trails. But it is especially important to keep to areas where hunters know to expect people. This goes for dogs too. Don’t forget part of your trail buddy’s outfit is a leash. Dogs are much more likely to have accidental run-ins with hunters if they rush untethered through the forest.
Make yourself heard
If you think hunters may be in the area, especially if you think you hear shots, alert them to your presence. A loud, “Hikers on the trail!” will keep everyone aware. Other options are talking to yourself (or your dog), singing, and whistling. You may end up shouting at no one, but don’t feel silly. Best to err on the side of caution.
Avoid hiking at dawn and dusk
Because deer are more active at dawn and dusk, those are expected times for hunters to be out as well. During this time of year, it may be wise to take your hike during full daylight hours.
With some advanced planning, mindfulness, and courtesy on all sides, sharing natural areas can stay a rewarding, fun, and safe experience.
Kelley V. Phillips is the Communications & Outreach Manager for Red-tail Land Conservancy. She strives to cultivate wonder in nature and action to protect it.
