Fall is hands-down the prettiest season to hit the trails. The air gets crisp, the leaves turn golden, and every path feels like a postcard. But if you’re a plus size woman, finding hiking clothes that fit well and feel good can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt.
I get it – I’ve been there. For years I just wore my regular gym clothes and dealt with the chafing, the rolled waistbands, and the jackets that never zipped fully over my hips. But it doesn’t have to be that way. After lots of trail testing, I’ve rounded up 10 plus size fall hiking outfits that are cozy, practical, and made to flatter every curve.
The golden rule? Fit and function come first, but style can absolutely come along for the ride. Let’s get into it.
1. High-Waisted Leggings + Chunky Knit Sweater
Let’s start with the outfit I practically live in all autumn long. High-waisted leggings are a curvy girl’s best friend because they smooth everything out while giving you total freedom to move and stretch.
Look for plus size leggings with a wide, tummy-control waistband that won’t roll down mid-hike. I love ones with side pockets for stashing my phone and a soft, brushed interior for those chilly morning starts.
Throw an oversized chunky knit sweater on top. The relaxed fit balances the fitted leggings beautifully, and you can tie it at the waist, tuck just the front, or let it hang loose. Cozy, cute, and trail-ready.
2. Classic Flannel + Stretchy Bootcut Jeans
Nothing says “fall hike” quite like a plaid flannel. The beauty of this shirt is that it works as a light jacket, a button-up top, or even a waist tie when you warm up.
Pair it with stretchy bootcut or straight-leg jeans that have elastane in the blend. That bit of stretch lets you step over logs and scramble up rocks without feeling restricted.
Jeans aren’t the most technical choice in the world, but on a breezy fall trail they’re perfectly fine. Add a cropped puffer or a quilted vest on top and you’ve got a cozy autumn look that photographs beautifully.
3. Fleece-Lined Tights + Tunic Dress
Wait, a dress for hiking? I know it sounds surprising, but trust me. A soft tunic dress with fleece-lined tights underneath is one of the most comfortable plus size hiking outfits I’ve ever worn.
Fleece-lined tights keep your legs warm in the places that matter most, and they don’t have that stiff, pinchy feeling some hiking pants have. The high waist gives you support and coverage.
Pick a tunic that hits right at mid-thigh with slightly flared sleeves so you can move your arms freely. Layer a denim jacket or puffer vest over it for extra warmth and an instant style upgrade.
4. Plus Size Overalls + Long-Sleeve Base Layer
Overalls aren’t just for farms and music festivals – they’re actually brilliant for fall hiking. Relaxed-fit overalls or a romper made from soft cotton or stretchy canvas gives you total range of motion while hiding your tummy.
Underneath, wear a lightweight thermal base layer or a fitted long-sleeve tee in a fun fall print. The bib pockets and adjustable side straps give you extra storage without needing a bulky backpack.
Overalls are forgiving, functional, and honestly just so cute in trail photos. Roll the cuffs slightly for that effortless autumn aesthetic.
5. Athletic Skort + High-Rise Leggings
Here’s a Pinterest secret that so many curvy hikers swear by – wear an athletic skort over a pair of high-rise leggings.
The skort gives you the flowing silhouette of a skirt with built-in shorts for coverage. Wear it over leggings for extra warmth and you get a charming, feminine look with serious function.
Choose a skort with an elastic waistband that sits at your natural waist. Let the leggings do the hard work while the skort adds that pop of color. You’ll get so many compliments on the trail.
6. Cargo Joggers + Fitted Thermal Tee
Cargo joggers might be the most underrated plus size hiking pant in existence. The tapered leg keeps fabric from catching on brush, and the pocket situation is absolutely elite.
Look for joggers with a bungee cord waistband or a flat, wide waist that doesn’t dig in. The fitted cuffs at the ankle keep out leaves, bugs, and morning chill.
On top, wear a snug thermal tee in a rich fall color like burnt orange, forest green, or burgundy. Layer an open flannel over it and tie it at the waist for a cute, practical look that moves with you.
7. Oversized Pullover Hoodie + High-Rise Yoga Pants
For those casual fall hikes where comfort is the only goal, nothing beats an oversized hoodie and high-rise yoga pants.
Choose a plus size hoodie that’s intentionally oversized – about two sizes too big. That extra room means easy layering underneath when the morning frost is still on the ground, plus a big pocket to warm your hands in.
High-rise yoga pants with a fold-over waistband are super forgiving on curves. Make sure they’re not see-through (check in natural light!) and have a little compression for support.
8. Insulated Puffer Vest + Softshell Leggings
Layering is everything in fall, and a puffer vest is the most underrated piece in any curvy hiker’s closet. It keeps your core toasty warm while leaving your arms completely free to move.
Start with a moisture-wicking long-sleeve base layer in a bright color or floral print. Avoid cotton at all costs – it holds sweat against your skin and makes you freeze the second the wind picks up.
Finish off with softshell leggings. Softshell fabric blocks wind and light rain while staying stretchy and breathable. This is the perfect trifecta for a morning hike that turns into an afternoon brunch.
9. Waterproof Rain Jacket + Wide-Leg Hiking Pants
Fall weather is completely unpredictable, and a lightweight waterproof rain jacket is a non-negotiable item in my plus size hiking kit.
Go for a jacket with an adjustable hood, pit zips for ventilation, and a slightly A-line shape. That cut gives your hips and booty room to move while still keeping the rain off. Avoid anything that pulls tight across your chest or shoulders.
Pair it with wide-leg hiking pants – also called culottes – and you’ll feel like you’re hiking in pajamas. They flow around your curves, dry fast, and are endlessly cute with a pair of trail sneakers.
10. Thermal Set + Insulated Jacket (The Borrowed Hack)
Okay, let me share a total game changer for curvy women: shopping the men’s or unisex thermal set. I know it sounds strange, but it works wonders.
Men’s thermal tops and bottoms in a small or medium run way longer in the torso and are cut straighter through the hips, so they don’t squeeze. Wearing this as your base layer under an insulated jacket feels like being wrapped in a warm hug.
Finish with a slightly oversized insulated jacket in a color you love, with a high collar to trap the heat. This entire combo is effortless, toasty, and makes you wonder why you didn’t try it sooner.
At the end of the day, the best plus size fall hiking outfit is the one that makes you forget you’re even wearing it. If you feel warm, dry, and supported, you’ll be too busy enjoying those stunning autumn views to worry about anything else.
So don’t let sizing stop you. Grab your comfiest layers, find a trail that calls to you, and go soak up the season. You deserve great outfits for every single adventure – and this fall, you’re going to have them.
FAQ: Plus Size Fall Hiking Outfits for Curvy Women
What should a plus size woman wear on a fall hike?
The magic combo is three layers: a moisture-wicking base layer, a cozy mid layer like flannel or fleece, and a waterproof outer shell for unpredictable weather. On the bottom, go with high-waisted leggings or stretchy cargo joggers that won’t slide down your hips.
What are the best plus size hiking pants for curvy hips and thighs?
Look for pants with added stretch, a drawstring or adjustable waist, and a cut that skims rather than squeezes. Wide-leg hiking pants and tapered joggers are universally flattering on curves because they give your thighs room to move comfortably.
How do I avoid chafing while hiking in the fall?
Chafing happens when layers rub against damp skin. Wear moisture-wicking fabrics, skip cotton, and use anti-chafe balm or thigh protection shorts under skirts and dresses. Seam-free crotches and flat waistbands make a huge difference too.
Should I buy hiking boots or trail sneakers for fall trails?
For most fall trails, breathable trail runners with solid tread are perfect. If you’re tackling rocky, rooty, or wet terrain, go for mid-cut waterproof boots with strong ankle support. Always leave a thumb’s width of room in the toe box.
Are plus size hiking outfits only made in boring black and gray?
Not at all! Fall is packed with color inspiration. Look for rust orange, olive green, mustard yellow, and berry tones. Plaid flannels and colorful base layers add tons of personality to your trail look, and nothing photographs better than autumn hues.