By Sara Marino EBS CONTRIBUTOR
Fall is in
the air. That means cooler days, fewer crowds, changing colors and pumpkin
spice lattes are back. It’s a great time to get outside, while keeping a few
tips in mind.
Give
Wildlife Their Space
Autumn
marks the start of the rut, or breeding season, for both elk and moose. Animals
are more active, and aggressive, as they look for a mate. It’s also the time
that bears enter hyperphagia, where they consume as many calories as possible
before winter hibernation, and will fiercely protect their food. Talk while you
hike so animals are aware of you, be observant of your surroundings and never
approach wildlife.
Watch the
Weather
Fall
weather can be variable. Check the forecast before you go, and be prepared for your
day to change from warm and sunny to cold and snowy, and all things in between.
Keep Track
of Time
In
mid-September the sun will begin setting around 7:30 p.m. Know your group’s
hiking ability and speed to plan to safely finish your hike before dark.
Be Mindful
of Hunters
Archery season opens in September and general season opens in October for
elk, deer and antelope. Be responsible when hiking on public lands during
hunting season. Wear blaze orange to make yourself visible—this goes for your
dog, too—make noise to make your presence known, and avoid hiking during the peak
hunting times of dawn and dusk. Consider planning your hike for areas closed to
hunting, such as Yellowstone National Park, or the town trails like Hummocks,
Uplands or Ousel Falls, which are managed by the Big Sky Community
Organization.
Visit bscomt.org for more information about Big Sky’s parks, trails and recreation programs. The Big Sky Community Organization engages and leads people to recreational and enrichment opportunities through thoughtful development of partnerships, programs and places.
Sara Marino is the community development manager for the Big
Sky Community Organization.
