Hiking at night holds its own brand of fun, but safety is the first priority. Winter night hikes heighten your senses, offer fewer bugs, a wider field of vision with bare bushes and trees, less light pollution for stargazing and a special sort of quiet. This is a primer for folks looking for a new adventure.

SELECT A TRAIL

Start small • Night hiking can be an unexpectedly intense, adrenaline experience — even overwhelming. Short, paved trails are ideal for beginners. Getting lost is unlikely and there are fewer obstacles. Ease into the longer, complicated trails as you get more experience.

Walk a familiar trail • Walk a trail during the day before trying it at night. Landscape looks different at night, as do landmarks and obstacles. Pay special attention to forks and crossroads.

Check the rules • Some parks are open late, some allow overnight stays, some close at sundown.

GEAR

Plan for cold and rain • Dress accordingly. Layer clothing. Carry a pocket poncho — which also serves as ground cover for sitting.

A belt pack or small backpack • You can throw in an extra sweater, paper towels, extra water and snacks.

Light • Headlamps that strap on hats are best for winter. Flashlights come as big and bright as you can carry. Ask store experts about night-vision filters for your lights. Carry extra batteries and a small, backup flashlight.

Cell phone • Know emergency numbers for park rangers. Make sure someone knows your whereabouts. Set hourly check-in times.

A whistle • In case rescuers need helping finding you.

GPS and map • A global positioning system and a map can help in case you need to call for help. Most cellphones have GPS.

Walking stick • A stick can find holes and obstacles hidden in shadows and help feel the ground during an off-trail potty break.

Regular gear • Bring water, a snack, a compass reflective tape for walking on roads and anything you'd carry during the day.

Pack the pooch • Even small dogs alert you to critters or other hazards. Use the shorter leash.

SAFETY TIPS

Walk with friends • There's safety in numbers.

Walk slowly • The ground has long shadows and higher contrasts that can hide obstacles.

Walk quietly • Forest night noises are different; there's no city noise.

Practice light courtesy • If you encounter other hikers, shine lights on the ground so the glow illuminates your space rather than the beam. Don't shine your light on houses that you pass.

Lost? Stay put • If you have to call for help, don't wander.

Conservation Connections • Subscribe to the Missouri Department of Conservation newsletter and try one of the guided night hikes. Visit alturl.com/j4kph/.

THINGS TO AVOID

Be not afraid • You'll encounter spooky forms and sounds. An owl may burst from a limb, a doe may bolt from a bush. You may see eyes glowing in the distance. But that's half the fun.

Don't play night jokes • Someone could get hurt.

Don't play with animals • Public camping grounds and trash dumps help critters lose some of their fear of humans. They'll bite a finger that smells like food.

Don't take young children • Children on night hiking trips may give no sign that they're terrified. The Missouri Department of Conservation often has 10-year-old minimum age for night hikes.