Winter Hiking Tips

Cold-weather hiking requires different preparation than hiking in warmer weather. Exploring trails in winter exposes a hiker to challenges and dangers. Fortunately, it can still be both safe and fun, as long as some basic preparation and planning goes into the trip.

Things You'll Need

• Cold weather hiking boots
• Extra socks
• Balaclava
• Warm clothing
• Winter coat
• Snow pants
• Gloves or mittens

Instructions

Winter Hiking Trips

1. Use cold-weather footwear. Hiking boots are great, but if you will be in temperatures that are excessively cold, choose those made of rubber. Leather will freeze and rubber will not.

2. Wear as many pairs of socks as needed. If you have thick socks for winter, one pair will be sufficient, but there is nothing wrong with wearing multiple pairs. You should also pack extra socks into plastic storage bags. Keeping your feet warm and dry is critical to fighting off illness.

3. Most body heat escapes through the head, so wearing proper head wear will keep you warm. Wearing a balaclava, also known as a ski mask, is particularly popular, since it can cover the entire face ior be rolled up into a hat if the weather gets warmer.

4. Think about the terrain you will be walking on and plan accordingly. Use snowshoes if you will be hiking in deep snow. If you expect to encounter rocky or icy terrain, bring a set of metal cleats to strap onto the bottom of your boots. It is also a good idea to use a set of trekking poles for additional balance on slippery surfaces.

5. Wear plenty of warm clothes. You can always peel layers off and store them in your pack if you get hot, so wear enough clothing to maintain your body heat. This should include a heavy winter coat with a hood and a pair of waterproof snow pants.

6. Wear warm, water-resistant gloves or mittens. Keeping your fingers warm is essential. In extremely cold weather, you may find yourself requiring a second pair of thin gloves, worn inside your regular gloves.

Tips & Warnings

• Hike with a friend, particularly during winter. You might slip on ice, and cold temperatures can inhibit your ability to recover from an injury.