Avid outdoorsman Kevin Roberts doesn’t like to be shut indoors… especially at this time of the year. He and his pack take advantage of the milder temperatures to explore their beautiful surroundings with a long and brisk autumn hike. Here are just a few of the reasons why you should be doing the same, as well as some tips to remember before you and your dog head out.

Ah, autumn! I love this time of year. The weather is lovely, nature is at its most spectacular and the dogs have plenty to sniff at. There are tons of reasons why I use every opportunity I can to go for an autumn hike with my pack, but there’s not enough room in this post. So I’m just going to keep it at my top 5 reasons to go for a fall hike with your dog:

The bugs are gone… well, mostly. When the temperatures start to dip, our “little friends” start to die off or find a place to go and sleep for the winter (well, most of them anyway). That means you will be enjoying the experience and not swatting for your life (or picking ticks off your dog when you get back home).

Bye, bye birdies. Fall is when our fine feathered friends start to pack up and leave for warmer climates. Birds, such as Canada Geese, start to group in larger numbers in preparation for their fall migration. Keep your eyes peeled for birds who may be temporary visitors to your area – they won’t be around for too long.

I’ve learnt a few things in my years of hiking adventures and want to pass them along to you. Before you go, here are some things to consider before you leave for your autumn hike:

Hunting season is here. It’s not just hikers who enjoy being outside in the fall – it also means hunting season. Plan accordingly: Blaze orange is seen as the safest clothing choice to ensure you are seen. You can also dress your dog in a blaze orange vest. Research before you head out to see if the area you plan to hike allows hunting. Keep your dog on a leash, as sudden gunshots can frighten even the most well behaved dog, causing them to bolt. Carry a cellphone, and ensure your dog has a collar ID with your phone number on it.

Dress for the weather. Dressing for the fall can be tricky, with the temperatures climbing during the day, and plummeting again once the sun goes down. Think layers! You can add or remove layers as the day goes on. Your dog may appreciate a lightweight coat for chilly fall days. A quality dog coat allows his legs to move properly and will keep him dry. If you have a dog who likes to roll, especially when the ground is wet, you’ll want to spend the extra money and buy a coat that will keep him warm.

Now get out there, have fun with your dog and bask in the wonders this amazing season has to offer!