If you wait for perfect weather to go hiking in the UK, you might be waiting a long time.
There’s an old saying: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.” While I admit that phrase can be annoying when you’re standing in a horizontal downpour on a bleak fellside, there is a lot of truth to it.
Rain changes the landscape. It brings waterfalls to life, turns moss an electric green, and brings a dramatic, moody atmosphere to the mountains that blue skies just can’t match. Plus, it usually clears the crowds.
But to actually enjoy it—rather than just endure it—you need the right strategy. Drawing on years of leading groups (and plenty of soggy days in the Army!), here is my ultimate guide to hiking in the rain.
1. The Gear: Your Defences Against the Elements
Staying dry isn’t just about comfort; it’s a key part of safety. When you are wet, you lose body heat much faster, which can lead to dangerous situations.
The Outer Shell (Jacket & Trousers)
Your waterproof jacket is your fortress. For hiking in persistent rain, a “water-resistant” coat won’t cut it. You need a proper hard shell with a high hydrostatic head rating.
- The Hood Matters: A good hiking jacket has a stiffened peak on the hood. This keeps the rain out of your eyes and stops water dripping down your neck.
- Breathability: If your jacket keeps rain out but traps sweat in, you’ll end up soaking wet anyway.
- Read More: For a deep dive into the tech, read our guide on The Waterproofness And Breathability Of Hiking Jackets.
Footwear
Wet feet are the quickest way to misery (and blisters).
- Waterproof Boots: Essential for UK bogs and rain. Make sure they are well-maintained and reproofed regularly.
- Gaiters: These are underrated. They seal the gap between your boot and your trousers, stopping rain from running down your leg and into your socks.
- Pro-Tips: Keep your toenails short. Wet skin is softer and more prone to damage from rubbing.
- Read More: How to Choose Hiking Boots: Your Complete Guide to Happy Feet on the Trails.
Pack Protection
Most backpacks are not waterproof.
- Rain Covers: These usually come with the pack. They stop the fabric from wetting out but can blow off in high winds.
- Dry Bags (The Gold Standard): I rely on dry bags inside my pack. Put your spare clothes in one, your electronics in another, and your first aid kit in a third. Even if you fall in a river, your kit stays dry.
2. The Strategy: Managing Your Body
Gear is only half the battle. How you use it matters.
“Be Bold, Start Cold”
This is a mantra I use on all my guided walks. It is tempting to put on every layer you own before you leave the car. Don’t. Once you start moving, your body generates huge amounts of heat.
If you are wearing a fleece and a waterproof jacket, you will sweat. That sweat will get trapped, and you will get wet from the inside.
Micro-Adjustments
Don’t wait until you are boiling or freezing to change something.
- Unzip: Use “pit zips” (underarm vents) on your jacket to dump heat without letting rain in.
- Hood Management: Take your hood down when the rain eases to let heat escape from your head.
3. Navigation & Safety in the Rain
Rain rarely comes alone; it often brings low cloud, wind, and poor visibility.
- Protect Your Map: A soggy paper map is useless. Use a waterproof map case (Active Maps are great) or a dedicated waterproof map.
- Trust Your Compass: When the visibility drops, landmarks disappear. Your compass doesn’t rely on batteries or signal.
- River Crossings: Rain swells streams quickly. A trickle in the morning can be a torrent by the afternoon. Never attempt to cross fast-flowing water above knee height. If in doubt, turn back.
- Slippery Terrain: Wet limestone and slate are like ice. Shorten your stride and consider using trekking poles for two extra points of stability.
4. The Mindset: Embracing the Wet
Finally, the biggest difference between a miserable trudge and an epic adventure is attitude.
- Acceptance: You are going to get wet. Your boots will get muddy. Once you accept that, it becomes fun.
- Type 2 Fun: Hiking in the rain is classic “Type 2 Fun”—it might feel tough in the moment, but you’ll look back on it with a huge sense of achievement (especially when you’re in the pub afterwards).
- The Reward: There is no feeling quite like getting back to a warm home, having a hot shower, and tucking into a hearty post-hike feast. The comfort feels earned.
So, next time the forecast looks grim, don’t cancel your plans. Grab your waterproofs, pack a sense of humour, and get out there. The hills are waiting.
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