Spring and early summer is a great time in Australia to consider night hiking, especially if you like camping trips.
My dad was a well-known bushcraft specialist and taught me night navigation as a teenager. Bushwalking at night is a different experience to exploring the outback during daylight.
At night, the scene has a certain stillness that stays with you. Your mind pays more attention to input from other senses; sounds are almost startling.
If considering hitting the trail after dark for the first time, these night hiker tips should help get you started.
Recognise your limits
Begin with an easy hike. Night hiking on a trail you’ve taken many times in daylight is best. This way, you have an idea of the terrain, reducing the possibility of stumbling.
Choose a popular, safe trail. Give yourself a chance to acclimatise, and get your bearings. Your first night walk is also a chance to confirm you have the right equipment.
I was thrown into heavy scrublands in the early days, albeit with experts, and it’s incredible how easy it is to become disoriented when barely seeing a few feet in front of you.
Research the wildlife in the region, especially during snake season. If already hiking in Australia, you likely have protective boots with strong support. If not, invest in them.
I stand by snake gaiters, covering ankle and lower legs. A quality pair reduces snake bite risk – although following trails rather than gate crashing rocky reptile homes also helps.
Prep carefully
Night-time hiking groups, tours and events exist. Speak to local bushwalking or hiking clubs. Online communities and forums for Australian hikers offer knowledge and advice too.
Don’t go alone, especially if inexperienced. The landscape changes at night, but more importantly, your perception is altered. Hike in a group, and stay safe.
Give details of your planned route to family, friends, and/or relevant authorities. Avoid detouring from the set path. Check the weather forecast for the time you plan to walk.
You’ll be cooler than you would when day hiking, so pack accordingly. Include a first-aid kit. Remember to take water, and stay hydrated, even if it’s night.
Yes, you have apps, but learning to read and plan with a compass and map is invaluable. While celestial navigation might be a bigger step, at least memorise stars above the trail.
When to hike
No need to hike all night. The window in which you hike depends on what you want to experience. Some night hikers prefer sunset and twilight over heavier darkness.
Others set off later to appreciate potential stargazing. Many enjoy early hours, aiming for the transition from night to sunrise. For me, midnight to 4am is stunning.
These preferences need to be taken into account when choosing a trail. Will you be in the best spot for sunset or sunrise? Is there a clear view of the stars from your path?
Another key aspect, is terrain. Were you hoping to appreciate landmarks as you travel? If so, the lighter periods of the night would be the time to see further with any clarity.
Whatever you choose, go slow, and walk with care. Rushing a night hike could lead to trouble. For the most part, night hikes are about enjoying a different take on the locale.
Lighting
Experienced hikers may prefer to hike without a light. But for those new to hiking, this increases risk. Hiking during or near a full moon is great; nature provides a helpful glow.
If a first-timer, be safe and use a light. Everyone has opinions and preferences around lighting for night hikes. A headlamp is popular because you don’t have to hold it.
Some prefer waist lamps, others, handheld options for ease and manoeuvrability. Remember, extremely bright light can interfere with night vision, which you need.
For this reason, multiple settings and a red setting/filter are worth considering. Likewise, try not to flash light directly at others, playing havoc with their night vision.
Practise at home so you’re not turning a light on for the first time on the trail. Charge up fully, or take spare batteries. Throw a small handheld torch in your pack, just in case.
Have you ever been night hiking? Let us know in the comments section below.
Also read: Five favourite locations to go camping in Australia
