It may be considered the off-season but the spring and fall arguably has some of the best trail time of the year waiting for you. With far fewer people, more wildlife to see, and gentle temperatures, you're practically guaranteed a fun and easy time. Here are some tips that will make your time trekking during the spring and fall even more enjoyable.

• Stay comfortable. This may seem simple in itself but it comes down to two words, "wear layers." The morning chill can give way to bright sun and pleasant temperatures. That heavy jacket you're wearing in the morning can become a liability in the afternoon. Three to four layers and convertible pants will add flexibility to your trek. As you get warmer you can open and shed layers. If the wind picks up but the sun is shining, you can wear your shell while removing the insulation. If things get really warm convertible pants allow you to zip off the legs, instantly turning them into shorts. What ever you do don't forget to wear a hat. It can help keep you warm in the morning and cool in the afternoon.
  
  
• Get an early start. Shorter days means you need to maximize every minute on the trail. Start off early, before the first light so you can start your trek in the first hour of the morning. You will be rewarded with a symphony of songbirds and bustle of wildlife activity. Remember the sun will set earlier, so don't get caught out in the dark on the trail.
  
  
• Be prepared. Make sure you are ready for the elements. Raingear as well as clothing that will protect you from the wind is essential.
  
  
• Move quietly. Your stealthy movements will be rewarded with opportunities to see many animals closer than you normally would. Except if you are walking in bear country, in which case you should make noise while you walk. Bears will tend to avoid you if they know you're coming. Attach a "bear bell" to your ankle -- you'll sound a bit like Santa Claus but it's worth the peace of mind.
  
  
• In the fall, leave the insect repellant at home. One could easily argue that the lack of biting insects is the single biggest benefit to hiking in the fall.
  
  
• Don't forget the sunscreen and the sunglasses. Just because it is cooler out doesn't mean you still can't get a sun burn. Drier air and wind also batters your skin during the fall months. Clearer, cleaner air also means brighter sunlight. Lip balm is also helpful if your lips get chapped easily.
  
  
• Eat some food. Nibbling food as you're hiking is like slowly putting coal into a fire: it keeps the internal furnace running nice and hot. Avoid eating a heavy meal before or while on the trail: the digestive process requires energy, and while a heavy meal can take 3-4 hours to digest, a light snack can be digested in less than an hour. Choose healthy trail snacks such as fruits or vegetables instead of high-sugar and high-fat snacks like energy bars. High-sugar snacks may provide a temporary energy burst, but they also cause a drop in blood sugar that leads to fatigue. High-sugar and high-fat foods will also make you thirsty, as they require more water to digest.