DEC Needs You to Do This While Hiking in the Hudson Valley

Many people enjoy hiking this time of year in the Hudson Valley, but there are some very important safety tips to keep in mind while doing it.

Some people need the cooler temperatures to be able to exercise outside more comfortably and others also enjoy seeing the change of colors with the leaves. Hiking is a big deal in the Hudson Valley and there are a lot of popular places to hike like Mt. Beacon, Breakneck Ridge, Storm King Mountain, any part of the Rail Trail and more. If you're just starting to become a hiker or even if you're an experienced one it's good to follow some extra safety tips while you're enjoying an afternoon out.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has recently put out some helpful safety tips that everyone should follow while enjoying a nice hike or even walk out this fall.

What safety tips from the DEC should everyone follow in the Hudson Valley this season?

There a lot of things to keep in mind so we can all share the woods safely and comfortably. Here are some examples of things to be mindful of:

• Always tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return (If your plan changes make sure you notify them)
• For hunting- make you you tell someone the make and model of the car your using, where you plan to hunt, when you plan on returning and any other important details
• For hiking-make sure you tell someone what trail you plan on using
• Wear bright colors while you're in the woods
• Keep your dog on a leash
• Educate yourself about the hunting season in New York

There are even more suggestions to follow and you can click below to see anything you might have missed:

Side note: When it comes to sharing your plan with someone....make sure it's someone who who checks their phone regularly and that they'd notice if you didn't come back. A friend/family member who takes forever to respond back might not be the best person in this case.

Have fun, follow these helpful tips and stay safe out there.

SEE ALSO: Shocking Warning For People Who Enjoy The Rail Trail in New York