The calendar still said “August” on Wednesday when the Mount Washington Observatory's morning weather report told of a 32-degree summit temperature and winds out of the Northwest at 52 miles per hour.

Of course, wintry weather in summer on the Northeast's highest peak isn't at all out of the ordinary. But even down in the valley, the forecast called for overnight lows in the 40s.

When it's time to shut the windows to avoid waking up the oil burner prematurely, it's also a good time to remember the importance of being prepared for changes in the weather when heading out for a hike.

It's a timeless message, but one that seems especially pertinent in autumn. That's when warm days can quickly turn chilly as the day progresses. Daylight hours are fewer, as well.

Your safety and enjoyment during a day on the trail can be enhanced with the proper knowledge in your head, clothes on your back and essential gear in your pack.

It's important to learn about the terrain you intend to hike by studying maps and guidebooks, talking to other hikers and seeking out information at visitor centers or trailheads. Getting a weather report before heading out is a critical step. Weather predictions can help you to choose a different route, a different start and turn-around time, or they may lead you to postpone a trip altogether.

Autumn is definitely a season to consider your turn-around time to help ensure that you and your companions get back to the trailhead before dark.

Dressing for changes in the weather is key. That can be accomplished by dressing in layers so you can easily doff a layer if you get too warm or add a layer if it gets cold. Adding a layer during rest breaks is a good idea since it helps avoid becoming chilled when your activity level decreases.

Layers typically consist of a base layer of wicking fabric that can pull moisture from perspiration away from your skin, such as polypropylene. Follow that with one or more insulating layers, such as polyester, fleece or wool. Top it off with a breathable, waterproof and windproof jacket and pants.

The idea is to stay warm, dry and sheltered from the wind to avoid hypothermia, the potentially deadly cooling of the body's core temperature. Snacking on high-energy foods and drinking plenty of water (at least two quarts per day) can help keep your internal fires stoked and help keep hypothermia at bay.

An insulating hat and gloves also belong in your pack in fall, even if the day is warm and sunny when you head out.

Waterproof boots will help keep your feet dry, which will aid in your comfort and safety.

And, with the shorter days of fall, a flashlight or headlamp is an especially important piece of safety gear. Toss fresh batteries into your pack to keep the lights on if the ones in use weaken.

Essential items in addition to food and water, appropriate clothing and footwear and a light source include a map and compass (and knowledge of how to use them), matches or a lighter, a whistle, a first aid kit, a gear repair kit and ja ackknife. For more detailed lists, see the trip planner section of the Appalachian Mountain Club's website at outdoors.org/tripplanner and the hikeSafe website at hikesafe.com.

Hikers should let someone know where they're headed and when they plan to return.

New Young Adult Adventure Series Offered

Young adults looking to develop outdoor skills in the company of their peers may want to look into the Appalachian Mountain Club's new Young Adult Adventures, being offered in the White Mountains this fall.

Designed for outdoors enthusiasts in their 20s and 30s who are interested in learning outdoor skills and making new friends, the weekend-long programs offer opportunities to try out rock-climbing, mountain biking, land navigation and other activities.

The programs are based at the AMC Joe Dodge Lodge at Pinkham Notch, at the base of Mount Washington in the White Mountain National Forest.

The schedule is as follows:

“Outdoor Skills: Land Navigation and Mount Washington Hike,” Sept. 7 to 9; “Rock Climb, Hike and Bike,” Sept. 14 to 16; “Whitewater Rafting, Hike, and Bike,” Sept. 21 to 23; “Hike, Bike and Paddle,” Sept. 28 to 30; “Young Adult Adventure Weekend: Early Winter Hiking,” Dec. 7 to 9.

More information is available at outdoors.org/fallguide. Reservations can be made online or by calling 466-2727.

Rob Burbank is the director of media and public affairs for the Appalachian Mountain Club in Pinkham Notch. His column, “Outdoors with the AMC,” appears monthly in the New Hampshire Sunday News.