Article: 5 Fun Fall Activities and How to Stay Sun Safe While Enjoying Them
5 Fun Fall Activities and How to Stay Sun Safe While Enjoying Them
Cooler temperatures, changing leaves, and plenty of reasons to get outside. Fall is a wonderful time to enjoy some fresh air, spend time with family, and make new memories.
From pumpkin patches and scenic hikes to afternoons in the garden, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the season.
But there’s one thing that’s easy to forget when summer ends: sun protection is still important in the fall.
Even when temperatures drop, harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can still reach your skin. And while the sun may not feel as intense as it did during summer, UV exposure can still contribute to skin damage.
The good news? A little preparation can help you enjoy all your favorite fall activities while keeping your skin protected.
Here are five fun ways to make the most of fall, along with simple sun safety tips for each one.
1Visit a Pumpkin Patch or Fall Festival
Is there anything that says fall quite like a trip to the pumpkin patch?
Between picking the perfect pumpkin, enjoying hayrides, exploring corn mazes, and taking family photos, pumpkin patches offer plenty of opportunities to make lasting memories.
They’re also a great way to spend a few hours outside with the whole family.
☀ Sun safety tip
Don’t Forget Your Hat
Even on a cool fall afternoon, your face, ears, and neck can be exposed to UV rays.
A wide-brim sun hat helps provide shade for these often-overlooked areas. Pair it with broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed skin for extra protection.
For little ones, choose comfortable, sun-protective clothing and age-appropriate sun protection so everyone can enjoy the day.
2Hit the Trails for a Fall Hike
Fall is one of the best times to explore the outdoors on foot.
Cooler temperatures can make longer hikes more comfortable, while changing leaves and seasonal scenery offer a whole new perspective on familiar trails.
Whether you’re exploring a local nature path or heading into the mountains for a weekend hike, it’s a great opportunity to get moving and enjoy some fresh air.
☀ Sun safety tip
Remember That Elevation Matters
Did you know that UV exposure increases as you climb higher in elevation?
About 10% more UV for every 1,000 meters (about 3,300 feet) of altitude gained
Source: World Health Organization
That means a cool mountain hike can still come with significant UV exposure, especially around midday.
Lightweight, breathable UPF 50+ sun shirts are a great option for hiking because they provide consistent coverage without the need to reapply sunscreen underneath the covered fabric.
Don’t forget sunscreen for exposed areas, sunglasses, and a sun hat.
3Spend an Afternoon in the Garden
Fall isn’t just about watching the leaves change. It’s also a great time to get your hands dirty!
Depending on where you live, autumn can be the perfect season for planting cool-weather vegetables, tending to flower beds, pruning, or preparing your garden for winter.
And there’s something rewarding about spending a quiet afternoon outside, caring for your plants and enjoying the fresh air.
☀ Sun safety tip
Small Amounts of Exposure Add Up
It’s easy to overlook sun protection when you’re only heading outside for a little yard work.
But repeated UV exposure over time contributes to cumulative skin damage, even when you’re not spending an entire day outdoors.
Keeping a comfortable UPF 50+ shirt or pair of sun sleeves nearby makes it easier to stay covered whenever you head outside.
Look for lightweight, breathable fabrics that allow you to move comfortably while gardening.
4Cheer on Your Favorite Team
For many families, fall means one thing: sports season!
From Friday night football games to weekend soccer matches, there’s no shortage of opportunities to cheer on your favorite athletes.
Whether you’re watching from the bleachers or spending the afternoon on the sidelines, these events can mean several hours outdoors.
☀ Sun safety tip
Don’t Let Cooler Weather Fool You
One of the biggest misconceptions about sun protection is that you only need it when the weather is hot.
In reality, temperature and UV intensity are two different things. You can experience meaningful UV exposure even on cool days.
Before heading to the game, check the UV Index and plan accordingly.
Bring a sun hat, wear UPF 50+ clothing, and apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen to exposed skin. Remember to reapply at least every two hours while outdoors, or more often after sweating.
5Plan a Fall Getaway
Looking for an excuse to take a little trip? Fall is a great time to explore somewhere new.
From weekend road trips and scenic drives to visiting a new city or enjoying a coastal getaway, there are plenty of ways to make the most of the season.
And with summer crowds beginning to fade in many destinations, autumn can be a wonderful time to slow down and enjoy the experience.
☀ Sun safety tip
Pack Protection for the Whole Day
When you’re traveling, it’s easy to spend more time outdoors than you originally planned.
Walking through town, sightseeing, enjoying outdoor meals, and exploring new places can all contribute to daily UV exposure.
Packing versatile UPF 50+ clothing makes it easier to stay protected without adding extra steps to your routine.
Choose comfortable pieces that are easy to layer and work for different activities. That way, you’ll be ready for whatever the day brings.
Do You Still Need Sun Protection in the Fall?
Yes. Sun protection is important year-round, including during fall and winter.
Although UV levels are often lower in autumn than during peak summer months, harmful UVA and UVB rays can still reach your skin.
UVA
Aging rays
UVA rays contribute to premature skin aging and skin damage.
UVB
Burning rays
UVB rays are a major cause of sunburn.
Both can contribute to skin cancer.
Cloud cover and cooler temperatures don’t eliminate UV exposure, either.
That’s why it’s important to pay attention to the UV Index rather than relying on how warm or sunny it feels outside.
When the UV Index reaches 3 or higher, sun protection is especially important.
Easy Ways to Stay Sun Safe This Fall
A few simple habits can make a big difference:
✓Check the UV Index
Know when UV levels are high enough to call for extra protection.
✓Wear UPF 50+ clothing
Choose sun-protective fabrics that block at least 98% of UVA and UVB rays.
✓Don’t forget your hat and sunglasses
Protect areas like your face, ears, neck, and eyes.
✓Use sunscreen on exposed skin
Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen and reapply as directed.
✓Seek shade when possible
Especially during the middle of the day, when UV levels are often strongest.
The best sun protection routine is one you can easily stick with, no matter the season.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fall Sun Safety
Can you get sunburned in the fall?
Yes. Sunburn can happen during any season when your skin receives enough UVB exposure. Cooler temperatures don’t prevent UV rays from damaging your skin.
Is the UV Index lower in fall?
In many locations, the UV Index decreases during fall as the sun’s angle changes. However, UV levels vary by location, elevation, weather, and time of day. Checking your local UV Index is the best way to understand your risk.
Should you wear sunscreen when it’s cloudy or cold?
Yes, when UV exposure warrants protection. UV rays can pass through clouds, and cold temperatures don’t prevent skin damage. Broad-spectrum sunscreen helps protect exposed skin during outdoor activities.
What should I wear for sun protection in the fall?
Lightweight UPF 50+ shirts, sun-protective hoodies, wide-brim hats, and sunglasses are all great options. Layering sun-protective clothing with warmer pieces can help you stay comfortable as temperatures change.
What does UPF 50+ mean?
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. Clothing rated UPF 50+ allows less than 2% of UV radiation to pass through the fabric, blocking more than 98% of harmful UV rays.
Unlike sunscreen, UPF clothing provides protection to the skin it covers without needing to be reapplied.
Keep the Fun Going All Season
Fall is full of opportunities to get outside, spend time with loved ones, and enjoy the things that make this season special.
And while the weather may be changing, the importance of protecting your skin stays the same.
