Hiker Safety During Hunting Season

by Kaira Loving, KTA Intern

What do you need to know to keep yourself and your loved ones safe, while enjoying the great PA outdoors during hunting season?

The first rule when stepping outdoors during this season of slightly increased risk is wearing bright orange: make yourself seen so you are not mistaken for that prized buck or Thanksgiving turkey! It's important not to wear red, white, or blue during turkey season, as they are turkey colors.

Consider avoiding trails during peak hours for hunters, typically sunrise and sunset where visibility is also low.

It is important to know the dates of the various hunting seasons in PA, as this information can help you plan a safer hiking trip.

Click here for a complete list of dates of PA’s various hunting seasons or click here to download a Google Calendar of all of PA’s hunting season right to your smart phone!

Lastly, if hunting makes you uneasy, hike on Sundays - on which hunting is prohibited in Pennsylvania, due in part to KTA's continued advocacy efforts on behalf of hikers!