How to Plan the Perfect Sunrise Hike

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If you’re wondering how to plan a sunrise hike, you’re in the right place. There is honestly nothing better than watching the sun come up from the top of a mountain — but a good sunrise hike takes a little bit of planning. I’ve definitely learnt this the hard way. I have seen cloudy sunrises in a few places across the world!

Here’s what I have learnt from my experience to help you plan your first sunrise hike — what to bring, when to go, what to expect.

How to Plan for a Sunrise Hike

Before you go for a sunrise hike, you’ll need to do a bit of research and choose a hike with east-facing views. This is where the sun rises, so it gives you the best chance of seeing all the colours as the sky changes. I always look on TikTok for sunrise hike ideas in the destination I’m going to, as it’s such a good way to see other people’s experiences and what the hike is actually like.

Once you’ve picked your hike, plan:

• where you’re going to park
• whether you need permits or permissions
• your route and trail conditions

Download the route on offline maps too, just in case you lose signal (this happens a lot early in the morning). And make sure your car has petrol the night before — these tiny things can completely ruin the experience if you forget.

The Weather

If you want a good sunrise, the weather is everything. I once checked the weather in Manchester, saw sunshine, then arrived in the Peaks to thick cloud and fog… instant regret.

Mountain Forecast is is my go-to website for checking conditions on higher ground and it’s way more accurate for hiking than a normal weather app.

Getting the Timing right

Timing is everything with a sunrise hike. I’ve learned this from experience — I once got to the top just as the sun had already started rising and missed the very beginning of it, which is honestly one of the best parts of the whole experience. Those soft pink and orange colours in the sky before the sun appears are something else.

Now, I always try to reach the top at least 30 minutes before sunrise so I can watch the colours change and get the best photos.

Your phone’s weather app will show sunrise time, but I also love using the Alpenglow app because it tells you when first light begins and when the sun actually rises.

When planning the hike itself, AllTrails is my go-to app. I use it to check routes, elevation, estimated hiking time, and reviews from other hikers so I can properly plan how long I’ll need. It makes timing your sunrise hike so much easier — especially when you’re heading out early and don’t want any surprises.

Don’t forget to factor in:

• driving time
• parking
• hiking time

What to Pack for a Sunrise Hike

Pack your bag the night before (otherwise you’ll be running around the house half asleep and stressed like it’s school again).

Here is my usual list:

• Headtorch or torch
• Water
• Snacks
• Battery pack
• Extra batteries for your torch
• Extra layers (hat, scarf, gloves if it’s cold)
• Flask with tea or coffee — highly recommend
• Hand sanitiser
• Sun protection if needed
• Small first aid kit
• Offline maps downloaded

Its always colder at the top than expected!

Safety Tips for Sunrise Hiking

Safety is especially important when hiking in the dark. If you’re going alone, always tell someone your plan and your expected return time. Share your live location if you can. If possible, go with someone — not only is it safer, it makes the whole experience even better.

A few extra things I always think about:

• Check your headtorch before you leave and make sure it’s fully charged. Hiking in the dark without a working torch is not fun.
• Make sure you have enough phone battery.
• Stick to marked trails, especially when visibility is low.
• Watch your footing — early morning dew, frost, or loose stones can make paths slippery.
• Turn back if it doesn’t feel right. No sunrise is worth putting yourself at risk.
• Bring more water than you think you’ll need, especially on warmer mornings.
• Be aware of wildlife and your surroundings. Early mornings are when animals are often most active.

And as always, check the weather again just before you leave — conditions can change overnight, especially in the mountains.