Life in the Pacific Northwest means learning how to handle rain in all its forms: mists, drizzles, showers, downpours, deluges, and more. Sure, it doesn’t rain all the time, but outside of the summer months it’s pretty common to have long streaks of sopping wet weather. Don’t let a little rain ruin your opportunities for adventure. You should get out and hike in the rain! Note: This post was updated in February 2021.

Hiking in the Rain is Awesome

Don’t believe me? I would say that a hike in the rain can provide some of the best conditions the PNW has to offer. Let me convince you.

Being prepared and able to take advantage of trails in wet weather means a chance to get out while others opt to stay indoors. For a lot of people, less foot traffic on the trail is a major benefit; being outdoors is an opportunity to disconnect, and to escape crowds and busyness. Fewer visitors also means it’s easier to stay physically distanced while hiking; still, remember to carry your mask. They are now required on pretty much all public lands. (February 2021.)

Rain can create a tranquil setting; the land quiets, and life of all sorts tends to move a bit slower. Watch your step, and use your senses to enjoy the setting: Smell the freshness of the air, from the earthy petrichor before rain starts to the scrubbed-clean odor right after a heavy shower. Listen to falling drops and running water. Feel the damp coolness on exposed skin. See the beauty highlighted by the weather, from shiny wet leaves made bright, to mysteriously cloaked peaks. With fewer people about, you might also see a bit more wildlife.

Hiking in the rain is a great workout. Muddy trails can take more effort to gain traction and keep your balance, which is great for your core and legs. Using a walking stick or trekking poles creates a bit of extra work for your arms. These pieces of equipment can aid your balance on slick terrain as well!

Weather can provide photographers some fantastic opportunities, too. Clouds create a natural filter; this gives an even amount of diffused light over scenery without heavy shadows. They also reduce glare in otherwise too-bright images, like snowy mountains, lightly colored flowers, rivers and waterfalls. (Plus, a lot of PNW waterfalls are at their most photogenic after a period of rain.) Photographs with clouds or rain can provide depth to landscapes that emphasize distance; raindrops give extra character to close-ups of smaller objects. 

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Check The Forecast

Meteorology is a complicated science that often seems like, well, educated guessing. The formula used to come up with the chance of precipitation even includes a number for the meteorologist’s confidence; that’s a pretty subjective measurement. According to the National Weather Service, the Probability of Preciptitation (PoP) is mathematically defined as:

PoP = C x A where “C” = the confidence that precipitation will occur somewhere in the forecast area, and where “A” = the percent of the area that will receive measureable precipitation, if it occurs at all.

National Weather Service, emphasis is from source – https://www.weather.gov/ffc/pop

That’s a bit more that the casual hiker will need to remember when planning a day hike. The important thing to know is that the chance of precipitation is rarely an absolute; it represents a percentage of likelihood that there may be precipitation somewhere within the forecast area, at some time during the forecast window. For the best chance of knowing if you will see rain, check as localized of a forecast as possible for the area you will be in. Don’t let a chance of rain cancel your plans!

Expect Precipitation

A great rule when packing for the outdoors in the PNW is to expect precipitation, regardless of the forecast. What kind and how much can vary depending on time of year and the region you’re in. Things to consider:

• Mountains make their own weather – The tall peaks trap moisture, redirect winds, and can have rapid shifts in temperature. This means even on sunny days, clouds can form and create surprises.
• Coastal conditions change quickly – What starts as one kind of weather can rapidly shift to the opposite along the coast. There is nothing to stop the weather along most of the coastline. This means that new weather systems can move in fast.
• Forests retain moisture – The water falling from overhead may not be actual rain, but accumulated wetness on trees. A light breeze can replicate a rainstorm in the right conditions.
• Elevation gains decrease temperatures, and rain can turn to snow before you know it. How much it decreases depends on time of year & weather conditions, but it typically drops by 3-5 degrees Farenheit (1.6-2.7 degrees Celcius) per 1000 feet gained.
• Summer tends to be the only time of year where forecasted, repeated dry days are nearly 100% reliable in the PNW. 

Dress For A Hike In The Rain

At the time of this post, it’s winter – which means, the PNW can pretty much expect rain any day of the week for the next few months. At higher elevations, it could mean ice & snow. So how do you dress & pack for a hike in the rain?

Starting with clothing, it’s important to use a smart layering technique. Inner layers should wick moisture away from the skin for both warmth and comfort. Cotton is advised against, as once it’s wet it no longer insulates. Stacking two or more layers creates better insulation for keeping warm and comfortable in (probably) cold, wet conditions. Outer layers should be water resistant or waterproof.

An important thing to note about water resistance or waterproofing is that a garment designed to keep water out will probably also hold water in. This means sweat can’t escape, and that can become uncomfortable over time. Layering with a moisture-wicking base helps prevent discomfort. Another benefit to a layering system is that you can remove water resistant or waterproof items when they aren’t needed, and still be warm while outdoors.

Waterproof shoes or boots should not just keep your feet dry, but also have a lug sole. This is a deep, solid tread made of rubber to help keep your footing in mud or on slick terrain. Some individuals prefer trail running shoes to boots for hiking, as they are lighter and may be more comfortable; although not as deep of a tread as boots, these also provide great grip on wet trails. Footwear with low or minimal traction is not recommended as the lack of tread can become a slip hazard.

Pack For A Hike In The Rain

I am a huge advocate for carrying the Ten Essentials on any hike, regardless of weather. We’ll just call out a few items here which are especially helpful for a hike in the rain.

Carrying a light plastic poncho is a great preparedness option if there’s only a low chance for rain, or for the peace of mind of extra waterproofing. Many hikers will carry a large garbage bag that can be converted to a poncho in a pinch.

Pack some additional clothing; if worn garments get wet, change to keep warm and comfortable. Wear all of your clothing layers for added warmth if they are relatively dry (don’t keep wet clothes in your layers). I especially recommend extra socks to change into, so that feet can be kept warm and dry inside waterproof footwear.

Hiking in rain, especially cold rain, takes a lot of energy. Pack more snacks for rainy day hikes, and treat yourself for venturing out. Be sure to pack extra water, too; staying hydrated helps the human body with temperature regulation. 

Have an emergency shelter in your pack; this can be as simple and light as a space blanket. More complex options are a tarp & rope, or a small tent. Know how to make the most of selected shelters. Your shelter item should be waterproof, and large enough to protect your full body from the elements. 

When It’s More Than Rain

When reviewing the forecast as a part of planning a hike, consider another region if the chosen trail looks set for a storm or extreme weather. One of the fantastic benefits of living in the PNW is that so many different regions are easily reached with just a few hours drive. While the Cascades have storms rolling through, the coast may only be overcast.

It’s important to know your hiking limits and not push too far beyond them; at best, hiking in stormy or winter weather that ends up more than you can handle results in a miserable experience. Storms bring additional elements of risk: wind-blown debris, high water, landslides, and lightening are just a few dangers to consider. Winter weather adds cold, and possibly ice or snow that can make trails dangerous.

Sometimes, even the best planning can be undermined by the unexpected. Pay attention to the weather while you are on the trail in case of rapid and unexpected shifts that weren’t in the forecast. If the weather changes, consider shortening your hike and returning another time. If it becomes dangerous to hike and you are unable to leave the area, seek shelter and stay in place until conditions improve. Always be sure someone knows where you will be hiking; should you end up in a situation where you need assistance, rescuers will know where to search.

Cozy And Dry After Your Hike

If you drove to your trail, I recommend stashing a post-hike bag in your car: a towel, dry cloths, a change of shoes, plastic bags for wet gear, a thermos of coffee or hot water (for hot chocolate or tea), and maybe a high-calorie snack to refuel. If you’re getting a ride, have these items brought along by your kind driver (and be sure there is enough to share). You’ll end your hike in the rain on a dry and cozy note, and be looking forward to the next outdoor adventure on the cloudy horizon.