Jordan Palmer

Over the past few years, I’ve shared my love of hiking with readers of The Morning Light, our daily newsletter. Fall is, without a doubt, my favorite season for hiking. As we approach Sukkot—the Jewish harvest festival, which begins at sundown on Oct. 16 and ends on Oct. 23—I’ve been reflecting on how nature, hiking and the spirit of Sukkot are so deeply intertwined.

Sukkot, with its strong connection to nature, invites us to step outside, reflect on life’s fragility and appreciate the beauty surrounding us. When I hike, I’m usually alone, finding it both meditative and restorative. I hope that some of you, too, will discover this connection. This year, the holiday coincides perfectly with peak fall foliage in Illinois and Missouri, making it the ideal time to enjoy the season’s splendor.

Hiking as a Sukkot journey

Instead of just observing fall colors from a distance, consider celebrating Sukkot with a hike. Hiking during Sukkot immerses you in the season’s beauty and turns the trail into a spiritual journey—a walk through nature’s sukkah.

Much like the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness, hiking invites contemplation. During Sukkot, Jews traditionally dwell in sukkahs—temporary, hut-like structures symbolizing the shelters used by the Israelites during their 40 years in the desert.

For me, the forest I hike through becomes my sukkah. The trees and leaves form a shelter that, like life itself, is fleeting and ever-changing. As the leaves turn and fall, I’m reminded that everything, even nature’s beauty, is temporary.

Reflection on the trail

Every step on a trail gives me a chance to pause and reflect. Hiking feels like a quiet dialogue with nature. It’s meditative and grounding, much like Sukkot. It’s about being fully present, appreciating the moment, and embracing the simplicity of the world around you.

But hiking isn’t just about reconnecting with nature; it’s also a reminder of our responsibility to protect it. Sukkot’s themes of gratitude and shelter resonate with the principles of environmental stewardship. As we walk through fall’s fleeting beauty, the idea of “leaving no trace” and caring for the earth aligns perfectly with the holiday’s spirit.

Sukkot, environmental stewardship and hiking

Sukkot encourages reflection on our relationship with the natural world. Hiking during the holiday provides a perfect opportunity to appreciate nature’s beauty while considering our responsibility to protect it. Practicing environmental stewardship—such as leaving no trace and respecting the trails—aligns with Sukkot’s values of gratitude and care for the earth.

As I hike with music—country music, if you can believe it—Sukkot reminds me to tread lightly, both physically and spiritually. Just as the sukkah is temporary, so too is the beauty of fall foliage—urging us to protect and appreciate the world around us.

My favorite fall hiking trails

Before choosing a hiking trail, consider key factors to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Assess your fitness level and experience, as trails vary in difficulty and elevation. I tend to stick to moderate to difficult trails, and the following reflect that. Also remember to check weather conditions, as they can affect safety and accessibility. Research the terrain to ensure you have the right gear, and consider the trail’s location, including parking and proximity to amenities. Lastly, be aware of any potential hazards, like wildlife or water crossings, and be prepared for emergencies.