Walking After Dark: Safety Tips for Shorter Days

Once Daylight Savings Time has once again come to an end, not only are the days continuing to get shorter and shorter, but it’s suddenly getting dark an hour earlier than it was a week ago. And that can definitely complicate your evening walks. I remember a few years ago, when a walking buddy and I decided to meet up one evening a week for a walk, and we watched as it got darker and darker every week. Eventually, we got to the point where I was thankful that we walked the same trail every week—because I still knew where I was going, even when I could barely see the trail anymore, as it curved through the woods.

But even though the nights are getting longer, it doesn’t mean that you have to give up on your outdoor walking routines until the days start getting longer again. In fact, nighttime walks can be just as enjoyable as daytime walks—maybe even more peaceful. You just need to plan accordingly—to ensure you make it through your walk safely.

Here are some tips for staying safe when your evening walk turns into a nighttime walk.

1) Bring a Buddy

Most women have been taught from a young age to keep their safety in mind at all times. I remember a time, several years ago, when my husband told me that he couldn’t sleep the night before, so he got up in the middle of the night and went for a run through the neighborhood—and I was struck by how different things are for women. Without getting into a discussion about how unfair that is, though, I’ll just say that I would never consider going for a walk alone at night—no matter how well I knew the area. But, for both men and women alike, there’s safety in numbers. And, in addition to keeping you safe, walking with someone else can also make the walk more fun. It’s just nice to unwind at the end of the day by walking and talking with a good friend.

2) Plan Ahead

During the day, I may wander off my usual path to explore a side street or a different part of the trail. But when you’re walking after dark, you’ll want to make a plan and stick to it. Plan to walk somewhere familiar—somewhere with sidewalks to keep you from walking on the road and well-lit paths, so you can see where you’re going and stay aware of your surroundings. Stick to populated areas instead of venturing off onto isolated paths. Even if it’s not dark when you head out, the sun seems to set quickly this time of year—and you don’t want to end up stumbling your way along dark, unfamiliar trails.

3) Dress Appropriately

Once the sun sets, the temperatures drop. So even if it’s a comfortable evening when you leave the house, it might cool off…fast. Before you head out, check the forecast, and plan your walking gear accordingly. Bring along layers that you can add as you need them—and maybe some light gloves and a hat or headband to keep that cooling air from biting your fingers and ears.

And while you’re at it…

4) Stay Visible

Not long ago, I was driving home after dark, and I was shocked to see a couple of people dash out into the road in front of me wearing nothing but dark clothing. They were lucky that I was paying attention to my driving—or I may not have seen them. And that’s why it’s important to stay visible when you’re walking at night (though I also recommend not darting out into traffic). Wear bright, light colors—and reflective clothing, if you have it. I have a few shirts and some leggings that have reflective patches on them—so I reach for those if I’m heading out in the evening.

To add even more visibility, pick up some light-up gear—from shoe lights to light-up vests—to make sure that you’re seen. And speaking of which…

5) Light It Up

It’s not just about visibility: it’s also about being able to see where you’re going! In addition to wearing reflective and light-up gear, bring a flashlight or a headlamp, to light up the path ahead of you. Even if you think it won’t be that dark, I’ve learned that it always ends up being darker than I expected—and after that first walk on a pitch-black wooded trail, I learned to come prepared. The idea is to enjoy a peaceful walk in the dark—not to end up hobbling home after you twist your ankle after stepping on a stick or sliding off the side of the pavement.

6) Don’t Forget Your Phone

I remember, back in the early ‘10s, when I put off getting a smart phone because I didn’t want to be connected all the time. Now I can’t imagine how anyone functioned without one. I use my phone for so many things when I’m walking: apps to track my miles, apps to play audiobooks while I walk, apps to map where I’m going. Of course, it’s also good to keep your phone handy in case of emergencies—and it’s wise to allow friends/family to track your location in real time, just in case. So before you head out for your evening stroll, be sure that your phone is charged up (I refuse to leave home until my phone is over 60%) and ready to tackle all of those important tasks.

7) Stay Focused

It’s always important to be aware of your surroundings while you’re out walking—but it’s even more important at night. If you need a little bit of music to keep you moving, make sure that you can still hear what’s going on around you. Keep the volume down—or consider using just one earbud or wearing open-ear headphones, so you can hear any other pedestrians or vehicles. Staying alert = staying safe.

Shorter days don’t have to mean fewer steps (or being confined to the treadmill in the basement). With a little bit of extra planning, you can still get outside for evening strolls. In fact, they might just become your favorite walks of the year!

Do you still walk outside in the evenings? What are your tips for making evening walks safe and enjoyable?