Spring adventures in the mountains - what to wear on a trip?

Spring is knocking at the door. The nights might still be cold, but the temperature during the day is rising, the sun is shining more and more intensely, and the wind doesn’t remind us of winter as much anymore. These are natural signs that won’t go unnoticed by any hiking aficionado. The last weeks of winter are a great time to check your hiking gear inventory, as well as an opportunity to plan the first spring trips. Let's think for a while about how to dress for a spring adventure in the mountains to ensure that we feel comfortable, as well as guarantee thermal comfort and functionality on the trails during the coming spring months.

Is it already spring in the mountains?

Although the first day of spring falls on March 21, nature just isn't too fond of labels and likes upsetting those who don't think much about its late or early arrival. It is important to remember that the weather in the lowlands and in the mountains, especially during this changeable and transitional period like early spring, can differ significantly. Melting snow, clear blue skies and high temperatures in the city may not necessarily mean the same favourable hiking conditions in the mountains. Let's remember that early spring in the mountains means remaining snow patches, slippery frozen ground and quite rapidly changing weather conditions. To avoid unpleasant surprises, let's give it a thought while choosing mountain clothing and equipment, especially in the first weeks of spring.

How to dress for spring in the mountains - essential tips

As you’re assembling your hiking attire for the first spring adventures on the trails, it is worth considering a few facts that are sometimes downplayed. Thorough knowledge on how to prepare for spring hikes can save our health and protect us from the unpleasant consequences of tipping over, getting wet or getting cold on the trail. So what should we remember about when going to the mountains in early spring?

Whether you're hitting the trail in early March or April, or even planning to spend the May weekend in the mountains, expect to encounter snow in the mountains. Patches of snow can remain for most of the year, especially in the higher parts of the mountains, covered in shadow. Let's take this into account when selecting not only hiking footwear, but also additional equipment such as boot covers. The frozen snow, which is slowly melting, is covered with a layer of water on top, making it an extremely slippery surface. Microspikes slipped over the soles of hiking boots, which are clearly associated with winter, may also come in handy in the early days of spring.

The first warm weeks usually see a rash of hiking enthusiasts, dressed as if winter was followed directly by... summer. Especially in the mountains, keep in mind that the average temperature rises slowly and a few more hours of sunshine during the day do not guarantee an equally warm evening. So when packing for a mountain trip, let's exercise moderation - extra clothing in the backpack can protect us when there’s a sudden drop in temperature. The higher the mountains, the more sudden and often unexpected the weather changes. A beautiful morning does not exclude a cloudy and cool midday, which, in turn, does not have to mean a rainy afternoon and cold evening. Keep this in mind when packing a backpack - a reliable rain jacket will not take up much space inside.

What to bring to the mountains in spring?

No matter whether you enjoy hiking in the mountains on your own, with friends, or mountain excursions with your child are your jam, it's worth setting aside enough time for preparation. It's a good idea to make a list of essentials while wondering what to pack for a hike in the mountains. Ticking subsequent items off your list while packing gives you a higher chance of taking everything you might need in the mountains. Contents, as well as capacity of a trekking backpack depends, of course, on the length and intensity of the planned trip, but in addition to appropriate clothing, it is always a good idea to carry a few essential items, such as:

Spring has come! How to dress for the mountains in March?

By early spring trips to the mountains, we mean those completed in March. This is usually the time of thaw, so expect plenty of water on the trail. Mud, streams flowing down the trail, and often recurring spring freezes pose a real risk of icy surfaces - not just in the highest parts of the mountains. So when preparing for a mountain hike in March, remember to thoroughly waterproof your boots and bring waterproof boot covers. Average air temperature in March generally does not exceed 6°C. Keep in mind, however, that due to wind and humidity, the apparent temperature in the mountains can often be much lower. Hence, remember to layer your outfit and make sure to take a rain jacket with you. Consider bringing a hat and gloves - they won't take up much space in your backpack, and can make your trip more comfortable.

April weather: rain and sunshine both together - how to get ready for a trip to the mountains?

The fourth month of the year is generally a sunny time that definitely brings us closer to spring in full bloom. It often seems to encourage leaving such clothes as a jacket, thin hat or thermal underwear at home. Let's not be fooled by appearances! When wondering how to dress for the mountains in April, keep in mind that the average air temperature this month in Poland is unlikely to exceed 9°C. April weather seems to enjoy changes and oftentimes surprises those fond of mountain adventures. It’s a good idea to replace the thicker down jacket with something more lightweight, such as a softshell jacket, which will protect us from the cold wind. It's one of those times of the year when we'll be carrying a lot of spare clothes in our backpack that we won't necessarily need, but it will certainly affect our sense of security and comfort while facing sudden weather changes.

May - sun, wind and... rain?

A thin rain jacket - either worn or stowed away in a backpack - should be a foundation of your outfit for May hikes. Although average temperatures in May oscillate around 11°C, and locally the thermometre can show much warmer temperatures, this month can surprise you with unexpected rain. This is the moment when thicker thermal underwear may become excess. As you exercise intensely in the mountains, you may find that the thermal set that worked well in March or April is too thick in May. So, to provide an answer to the question of how to dress for the mountains in May, we suggest that you opt for a thin set of thermal underwear or do without it. So in addition to a rain jacket, it's a good idea to carry a waterproof backpack cover to effectively protect the contents of your backpack from getting wet.

Spring is in full swing - or June in the mountains!

This is the moment when average temperatures often reach the highs of 17°C, and the weather begins to settle down when it comes to fluctuations that were frequent in previous months. You can safely replace long trousers with shorts, and keep your rain jacket in the backpack. However, let's not overdo it! Remember that no matter the season, the temperature always drops after dark, so it's always recommended to have extra clothes at hand. This is the moment when sunscreen and headgear to protect against prolonged sun exposure, as well as sunglasses, should be included in the basic gear of every tourist. June is the perfect time for hiking - the trails are not as busy as during the summer holiday months, and weather conditions seem just ideal for day-long mountain adventures.