What do hikers and hunters have in common? They both want to be out in the parks and forests during the beautiful fall season!
Whether you’re pro-hunting or not, it’s a popular sport, so you’re bound to encounter a hunter while hiking during the fall and winter months. These are shared spaces, so as hikers, we need to do what we can to remain safe. That includes wearing proper clothing and knowing where and when hunting is permitted.
Every state has different rules and regulations for hunting. It’s up to you to research them before you head out on the trail. Below are some general tips for safely hiking during hunting season; however, my knowledge is primarily limited to the states of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. If you are hiking elsewhere, visit the state’s gaming commission website for more detailed information.
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Tips For Hiking Safely During Hunting Season
Know the Dates
The best way to hike safely during hunting season is to know the dates of the season.
In Pennsylvania and New Jersey, hunting season (for big game) typically begins mid-September (during those lovely fall hikes!) and lasts through January. This is the time period when you should be most diligent and aware of your surroundings when hiking in those states.
Sundays used to be a safe day to hike in Pennsylvania until recently. A law passed in 2025 allowing Sunday hunting within State Forests every Sunday from September 14th until December 7th. Hunting is also allowed in State Parks on three select Sundays: November 16th, 23rd, and 30th. These dates are only applicable for the 2025-2026 season. They plan to open up more Sundays for hunting in State Parks for future seasons.
New Jersey, however, continues to limit hunting on Sundays to private lands only. Public lands, such as state parks and State Forests, do not allow hunting on Sundays (this information is accurate as of 2025).
Dress to Draw Attention
If you are hiking in or near hunting lands, you’ll want to dress safely! As you enter these lands, you’ll encounter signs that state, “Hunters wear orange, you should too!”. And that is for your safety. You don’t want to be mistaken for a deer or bear accidentally.
The easiest way to dress safely is by wearing a bright orange hat, whether it’s a winter hat or a baseball-style hat. This way, your head will be evident to hunters.
You can take it a step further and wear a high-visibility vest over your clothes. And since most of us use backpacks while hiking, a bright orange (or really any neon-colored) backpack is another way to ensure hunters know you are a person, not game.
Be Heard
Hunters won’t shoot if they hear you nearby. Hiking with a friend or a small group usually means chatter, which can be heard from a distance. However, if you are hiking along, consider whistling or singing to yourself.
If you hear gunshots nearby, yell out “hiker on the trail!” so they know you are there.
Keep Your Dog Safe
It’s so tempting to allow your pup to wander free through the forest, especially in areas that do not require dogs to be leashed. However, it’s safest for your dog to stay on the leash during hunting season.
Also, they need orange too! Put them in a high-visibility harness to ensure their safety.
Find Alternative Hiking Trails
The safest way to hike during hunting season is to avoid areas where hunting is permitted. Preserves and nature center trails are generally safe bets, but it’s always a good idea to check their website for accurate information.
Some preserves may still permit deer hunting for population control, such as Hawk Mountain Sanctuary. However, they will typically close their trails to keep hikers safe.
National Parks are also usually a safe choice to avoid hiking with hunters. They have a limited number of parks that allow hunting, and most of them prohibit hunting near popular hiking trails. Valley Forge National Historical Park does not allow any hunting, so you know you can hike safely there year-round.
Although most state parks in Pennsylvania permit some form of hunting, there are a few that do not allow it at all. You can find those parks here. Some county park systems prohibit hunting altogether, while others permit it during designated dates. Again, visit their websites (or call!) for the best information.
Hiking During Hunting Season Wrap-Up
In general, the biggest thing to remember when hiking during hunting season is to be seen!
Even if you’re unsure of the dates and locations for hunting, wear a bright orange hat or vest. At worst, you’ll be noticed by everyone passing you on the trail. At best, you’ll be noticed by hunters and won’t be confused for a deer! As they say, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
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