Night hiking offers a completely different experience of familiar trails. The bush comes alive with nocturnal creatures, temperatures drop to comfortable levels, and there's a special tranquility in walking under the stars. Here's how to do it safely.

🌙 Why Hike at Night?

• Escape the heat - Perfect for Australian summers
• Nocturnal wildlife - See animals you'd never encounter by day
• Stargazing - Experience the night sky away from city lights
• Different atmosphere - Familiar trails feel completely new
• Build navigation skills - Challenge yourself in a new way
• Summit sunrises - Start early to catch dawn from a peak

🔦 Essential Gear

• Primary headlamp - Hands-free lighting is essential
• Backup light - Never rely on a single light source
• Extra batteries - Bring more than you think you need
• Red light mode - Preserves night vision
• Warm layers - Temperatures drop significantly at night
• Reflective elements - Be visible to others

📋 Preparation Tips

• Know the trail - Walk it in daylight first if possible
• Check moon phases - Full moon provides useful ambient light
• Tell someone - More important than ever for night hikes
• Start simple - Begin with well-marked, easy trails
• Check weather - Cloud cover, storms, and fog affect visibility
• Charge devices - Phone, GPS, and all lights fully charged

👁️ Night Vision Tips

• Allow 20-30 minutes for eyes to fully adjust to darkness
• Use red light to preserve night vision
• Avoid looking directly at bright lights (including phones)
• Cover one eye if you must use a light, to keep it adapted
• On moonlit nights, try hiking without a torch where safe

🦉 Wildlife Considerations

• Watch for eyes - Many animals' eyes reflect light
• Move quietly - You'll see more wildlife
• Be aware of snakes - Some species are active at night in warm weather
• Spiders - Webs may cross trails at night; watch face-height
• Respect wildlife - Don't shine lights directly at animals

🗺️ Navigation

• GPS is invaluable—know how to use it
• Trail markers may be harder to spot; move slowly at junctions
• Your sense of distance changes at night—things often seem further
• Stars can help with direction if you know the constellations
• Track your route with GPS to ensure you can retrace steps

⚠️ Safety Considerations

• Avoid technical terrain until very experienced
• Move slower than during the day
• Stay together if in a group
• Carry emergency shelter in case you need to stop
• Know your turnaround time

Night hiking adds a new dimension to your outdoor experience. Start with familiar trails, prepare thoroughly, and gradually build your confidence. The bush at night is magical—and with the right preparation, it's safe to enjoy.