The changing of the seasons doesn’t mean that you have to stow your hiking boots away and wait for spring. All you need for a winter hiking trip is a little extra preparation. If the weather permits, there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy your favorite activity all year round. We compiled some helpful tips for your next winter hiking trip so that you can take to the trails all winter long.
Clothes
The way you dress plays a huge factor in how comfortable you’ll be during your winter hike. While you might want to throw on your ski parka and bundle up, you’ll regret it later. It’s better to dress in several, shed-able, layers rather than wearing one big coat. This way, you can shed some layers and stick them in your backpack as your body temperature rises throughout your hike. For cold weather, it’s all about properly layering.
For the first layer, pick moisture-wicking fabrics so that your clothes won’t get too saturated from sweat or snow. For the outer layer, try to wear waterproof clothes, especially if you’re going to be hiking through snow or rain. The middle layer(s) can consist of whatever fleecy or insulated articles of clothing you’ll need to keep you warm. It’s better to overdress and shed layers as you hike than to underdress and get too cold.
For your shoes, you’ll want to wear waterproof and insulated hiking boots with warm wool socks. Throw on a hat and gloves to keep your fingers and head warm. Put an extra sweater or jacket and a pair of dry socks in your backpack in case you get wet or need more layers later on.
Gear
When packing your backpack for your winter hiking trip, there are a few things you should add to your usual packing list. Since the days are shorter in the winter, you should bring along a headlamp or flashlight in case you end up finishing your hike in the dark. Along with that, be sure to bring along extra batteries for your lights and other devices in case they malfunction from the cold.
Get ready to brave the elements! Even though it’s going to be cold outside, you should use sunscreen and bring some along in your backpack. The sun reflecting off the snow can be harmful to your skin. If you plan on camping outside, make sure to prepare with sleeping bags, camping stoves, and anything else that might make your night more comfortable in the cold.
As you should on any hiking trip, make sure to include safety items with your gear. Pack a first aid kit to treat any minor injuries. You might want to bring along things like bear spray, whistles, or avalanche beacons depending on the location you’ll be hiking in.
Food and Water
Water is essential on any hiking trip, but especially in the winter. Dehydration can contribute to you getting hypothermia and other issues. However, if you’re hiking in temperatures below freezing, you need to make sure that your water doesn’t freeze. Insulate your water bottle with a foam sleeve or wrap it up in your extra pair of socks to make sure it stays in its liquid state. If you’re hiking with a hydration pack, make sure that you have an insulated hose so it doesn’t get clogged with ice. There are specialized hydration packs that are designed for the cold and help insulate the water as you go out and about on your winter hiking trip.
Make sure to drink water and keep eating as you hike. Because of the terrain and the temperature, winter hiking can be more draining on your body than hiking in warmer weather. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water. Pack snacks that are easy to eat on the go so you can stay nourished as you hike. If you have to stop to eat a snack, you’re likely to get colder from the inactivity.
If you want to treat yourself, pack a thermos with your favorite warm drink in it. Once you get to your campsite or to a stopping place, you can pull the thermos out and enjoy.
Strategy
The long, tiring trail that you hike in the summer might not be feasible for the winter. Shorter days and difficult conditions will make the hike seem much longer. Keep this in mind when you decide where to hike.
You should also plan to get an early start. The daylight will be gone before you know it, so you need to take advantage of the sunlight and get going with the dawn.
Be ready to navigate with a map if the snow is covering markers or trail signage. Don’t just rely on GPS or on your familiarity with the trail. The familiar markings might look totally different in the winter.
If you layer up, pack smart, and plan ahead, you can enjoy a good hike all winter long. Stay safe, stay warm, and have fun as you take on the great outdoors.
Now you have a better idea of how you can get ready for a winter hiking trip. For a more localized look of your hiking scene, visit your local Sun & Ski Sports. Or, check out our Adventure Resource Guide. There, you can find helpful articles, such as our guide on how to gear up for hiking, or our guide on nature and hiking trail etiquette. Until then, happy trails!