There’s a moment just before sunrise when the whole world seems to hold its breath. On the trail, it’s even more pronounced — the air is cool, the forest is still, and the path feels like it belongs to you alone.
Starting early is about more than catching the sunrise from the summit. It means hiking in cooler temperatures, avoiding midday crowds, and increasing your margin of safety if the route takes longer than planned.
Some of the most memorable moments on a hike happen before the sun has fully risen: the first light hitting the peaks, the sound of birds waking, the crunch of frost underfoot.
The next time you plan a big hike, set your alarm earlier than feels comfortable — and watch how the trail rewards you for it.