SEATTLE -- Late summer is a fine time to get outdoors. Crowds thin to a trickle and pesky bugs are dwindling.

Karin Czulik / KING5.com

Alpine Lakes Wilderness

The calendar may still say August, but the weather in the mountains feels more like October. And there is more autumn-like weather in the forecast.

"This weekend is going to be terribly chilly for late August, especially in the mountains. Seeing as it's Labor Day Weekend, masses of people will be headed to the high country for hiking/climbing/camping," said KING 5 meteorologist Shannon O'Donnell.

She says the storm coming in Friday will bring another round of rain Friday afternoon, with snow above 11,000 feet. However, cold air rapidly fills in behind the front on Saturday, and the snow levels will drop to as low as 5,000 feet by Saturday afternoon, which is very low for August.

The precipitation will be showery Saturday, but some folks up just above the passes may see some summer snow. Plus, it will be gusty on Saturday, making it feel even colder.

Conditions will slowly improve on Sunday and especially Monday as we dry out and warm up a little bit.

Like any type of recreation, hiking carries certain risks, and your safety is best ensured with preparation and caution. Shorter days, colder nights and quickly changing weather can bring added risk to even a simple day hike and extra precautions are therefore in order for hikers this Labor Day weekend:

-Choose your hiking destination carefully.

-Check trail conditions before heading out.

-Pay attention to the weather forecast.

-Let someone know where you'll be and when you plan to return.

-Bring warm clothes and be prepared for any weather.

-Pack the backcountry essentials, including emergency shelter.

-Bring hiking poles or ice axe to help you across stretches of unexpected ice- or snow-covered patches.

-Don't rely on your cell phone. Often, you won't get service or batteries die in cold weather.