Hiking in the Snow | Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Trip
Hiking in the snow can be an exhilarating experience, but it comes with its own set of challenges. How do you prepare and what gear do you need to stay safe and enjoy your snowy adventure? This guide covers essential tips, from the start of your hike all the way to the end, we have you covered.
Key Takeaways
Preparation is key for winter hiking: check trail conditions, monitor the weather, and plan your route carefully, also have a backup plan.
Equip yourself with essential winter gear: a well layered clothing system, insulated footwear, and proper bags are all vital.
Stay warm and hydrated: adjust layers accordingly, snack often to maintain energy, and pack warm drinks to help with hydration.
Preparing for a Winter Hike
Preparation is the most important element in winter hiking. In contrast to summer hiking, the potential dangers posed by cold weather and snow mean that those embarking on a winter hike must pay extra attention to detail.
You need to know exactly what lies ahead of you on your path. Unfortunately I have made the mistake of not being prepared for a winter hike, and never want you to experience that anxiety.
To guarantee both safety and pleasure while hitting snowy trails, it’s crucial to emphasize the significance of being up-to-date regarding trail statuses, staying vigilant about forthcoming weather changes, and strategizing your journey thoughtfully.
vCheck Trail Conditions
Thoroughly checking trail conditions is essential for winter hikes, especially when hiking in the snow. Accessibility can vary significantly with snow cover, and it’s vital to know what you’re walking into.
Tools like Gaia GPS ( a great hiking app) and local ranger stations provide updates on trail conditions and snow status. Frequent trail updates from other hikers can be invaluable.
In deeper snow, equip yourself with gaiters and snowshoes to navigate hidden hazards in deep snow. Snow slows down your pace, especially uphill, so I like to add 20-30% more to my expected time to finish the trail.
Monitor Weather Forecasts For Hiking In The Snow
Keeping track of the weather forecast is crucial when organizing a winter hike. It’s important to pay attention to key elements such as the expected highest and lowest temperatures, any impending precipitation, and factors related to wind chill.
Wind chill is something most hikers downplay. Wind chill can really add to a dip in temperature, and if you don’t properly prepare you can put yourself at risk for frostbite.
Check out platforms for accurate forecasts like weather.gov, Windy.com, and Mountain-Weather.com. Specifically, for altitude-related predictions, Mountain Forecast provides valuable insights.
Start Slow For Your First Winter Hike
I always recommend choosing a trail that you are familiar with in the summer and spring months. You want your first winter hike to go smooth, you can easily lose yourself out there when the snow covers all the trail markers, especially when in unknown territory.
Choose short trails with a mix of uphill and downhill sections to balance your exertion levels. Prioritize safety by selecting trails with low technicality, mileage, and avalanche risk.
What To Wear Hiking In The Winter
Having the right gear for winter hiking is paramount.The cold weather and snow demand specific equipment to ensure safety and comfort. From clothing layers to footwear and traction devices, each piece of gear plays a vital role in your winter hiking experience.
The following sections cover the importance of a proper layering system, necessary winter hiking footwear, and the benefits of using traction devices for safe navigation on snowy and icy trails.
Layering System
Baselayer
A well-designed layering system keeps you warm and dry. The base layer, made from moisture-wicking materials like synthetic fabrics or merino wool, keeps sweat off your skin.
I like to wear a turtleneck such as the Under Armour cold gear or other synthetic long sleeves. I’ll add in a short sleeve t-shirt over this before applying my midlayer.
Midlayer
The mid-layer provides insulation, with options like fleece or puffy jackets. The midlayer can be tricky for some individuals as you want to keep this layer nice and thin, yet warm. For pants, opt for synthetic as well keeping the bulkiness down at the same time. You can also pair your midlayer with a pair of leggings as I do.
When the weather isn't super cold I'll even opt for a flannel which is sufficient enough for me to wear as my midlayer. Fleece is usually the most popular option for the midlayer. Just keep in mind one of the downsides of synthetic material tends to be very bulky.
Outerlayer
The outer layer, usually a waterproof shell, protects against wind, rain, and snow, ensuring comfort and protection while on the trail. The outlayer usually consists of an outer jacket with an insulated layer on the inside, trapping the heat.
Remember, the point of layering is so you can remove these layers as needed to adjust to the temperature!
Winter Hiking Footwear
Appropriate footwear is vital for winter hikes. Winter hiking boots should offer good traction, waterproof properties, and insulation suitable for the conditions. Opt for “midweight” and high uppers when it comes to hiking boots for the winter.
Adding the high upper hiking boots while in the snow aids in ankle protection, wearing something low-cut like the Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX, will put you at risk for ankle sprains. The best winter hiking boots you can look into are the Salomon Quest 4, and Lowa Renegade GTX Mid.
Merino Wool socks are recommended for their warmth and moisture-wicking capabilities. Brands like Darn Tough are highly favored for their durability and warmth. The best winter hiking socks are the Darn Tough Hiker Full Cushion , and Smartwool Classic Mountaineer Maximum Cushion.
Layering socks, such as a liner under thicker wool socks, can enhance warmth. Be sure the layered socks aren’t causing extra snugness causing blisters for you. Ensure your feet stay warm and dry to avoid frostbite and other cold-related ailments.
Traction Devices
To maintain footing on trails blanketed with snow and ice, employing traction devices will help you quell the slippery conditions.
While crampons are tailored for more vertical snowy terrains and icy conditions, microspikes offer ample grip to traverse safer paths with fewer challenges. For most people reading this article, microspikes are the way to go.
Incorporating the use of trekking poles can significantly increase your stability. By preventing slips and falls, these poles contribute to a secure and pleasurable winter hiking adventure.
Staying Warm and Dry While Hiking In The Winter
To avoid the dangers of hypothermia or frostbite while enjoying your outdoor adventure, it’s essential to be equipped with the right clothing and gear to stay warm.
Subsequent segments will explore how frequent adjustments to layers can aid in thermal comfort, the significance of employing gaiters, and strategies for keeping hands and feet warm throughout your hike in cold conditions.
Adjust Layers Frequently
To stay comfortable and manage body temperature effectively while hiking, it’s important to modify the number of clothing layers you wear. It is essential to shed layers before sweating too much because sweat can cause you to become cold once you stop your activity, leading to hypothermia.
I recommend beginning your hike with a slight chill as this can help prevent becoming excessively warm during the exertion.
Use Gaiters With Your Winter Hiking Boots
Gaiters are indispensable for winter hiking. They prevent snow from entering your boots, keeping your feet dry and warm. Think of this as a gusseted tongue on a hiking boot, it prevents anything entering your boots.
Keep Extremities Warm
To avoid frostbite, it’s important to maintain warmth in your extremities. Make sure that areas such as hands, feet, and face are well-covered and insulated.
Donning warm gloves, thick socks, a beanie or hat along with a scarf or buff is crucial for preserving body heat effectively.
Hydration and Nutrition for Cold Weather
Staying hydrated and well-nourished is just as critical during the winter season as it is in warmer climates. The chill of cold weather has a tendency to reduce our sense of thirst, which can inadvertently lead to dehydration.
It’s also essential to consume sufficient calories while hiking, as you remember you can burn up to 20% more calories when hiking in snow compared to normal conditions.
Pack Warm Fluids
Carrying a thermos filled with a warm beverage such as tea or even electrolyte water can offer solace and assist in maintaining your body temperature. Find any way to stay hydrated while in cold weather, most people do not stay hydrated enough.
Snack Often
It’s crucial to snack regularly in order to maintain energy levels and body heat. Since your body expends more calories attempting to stay warm, it’s wise to bring along a greater quantity of snacks than anticipated. Opt for convenient options such as fruit and nut mixes that are simple to consume.
Prevent Water Freezing
I can’t tell you how many times this has happened to me on the trial. To reduce the likelihood of your water freezing, you should use bottles with insulation and keep them upside down. A good Stanley water jug (a popular brand now) will prevent freezing.
Navigating Snowy Trails
Snowy trails present unique navigation challenges. Snowshoes and microspikes can provide the necessary traction, while hiking poles enhance stability. Starting your hike early helps avoid deteriorating trail conditions and ensures better visibility.
Use Navigation Tools
Navigation tools are crucial for safe winter hiking. GPS tracking devices, paper maps, and navigation apps like Gaia and Hiking Project can help you stay on course. Remember, snow can easily cover trail markers.
Set Turnaround Times
Set a turnaround time, and stick to it. Don’t fall into the trap of feeling good and pushing past your time limit, recognize you set this turnaround time with full mental clarity before your trip.
Itt guarantees that you make it back before nightfall and accounts for the extended time it takes to hike in snowy conditions (remember add 20% more time to your hikes!).
Safety Measures During Winter Hiking
Safety measures are critical for winter hiking. Proper planning and awareness of potential risks like hypothermia, frostbite, and avalanches are essential. Being prepared for emergencies can prevent serious risks associated with winter hiking.
Recall that proper preparation is the MOST IMPORTANT factor while hiking in the cold weather.
Hypothermia Awareness
During winter treks, hypothermia is a significant danger. Early symptoms to watch for are uncontrollable shivering, unclear speech, loss of coordination and disorientation.
To prevent hypothermia, bring along insulating clothing layers, eat plenty of calories for energy and stay on the move. If at any point your clothing becomes wet during a hike, replace it immediately.
Avoiding Frostbite
Frostbite commonly affects extremities like fingers, toes, nose, and ears due to extended exposure to cold temperatures and wind. Initial signs include numbness and discoloration.
Proper clothing and insulation will prevent frostbite.
Avalanche Safety
Avalanche safety is a critical consideration for winter hiking. Avalanches can be triggered by both human activity and natural events. It’s essential to be familiar with avalanche forecasts and avoid high-risk areas. Websites like Avalanche.org provide valuable information on snow conditions and high-risk zones.
Reduce avalanche risks by avoiding avalanche-prone areas and staying away from edges to prevent cornice collapses. Awareness of avalanche terrain and recognizing signs of potential avalanches can save lives.
Winter Hikes With Dogs
If your dog is anything like mine, then they love the cold weather and snow! There are a few essential tips to share when it comes to hiking in the winter with your dogs.
Remember to keep your dog adequately hydrated, just as you are burning more calories hiking through the snow, so are they. Keep their water nice and warm and prevent it from freezing. Be sure to keep an eye on their paws as they can become raw and blistered in the snow, consider hiking booties for your dog!
I recommend using a harness while hiking with your dog in the winter. The harness allows better control of the dog, and for you as you’ll be wearing gloves. The last time is to savor your time with your dog while on the trail, the solace of the winter is something I will always cherish with my dog.
My Favorite Winter Hiking Tips
Hiking during the winter presents its own rewards and challenges. Recognizing that you may travel more slowly, comprehending the heightened exposure to UV rays due to sunlight reflecting off of snow, and valuing the quietness found on winter trails can improve your experience, I have noticed these tips have provided me the best experience while hiking in cold weather.
Start Early
Always have an early start! Starting early maximizes daylight and reduces risks. Also, it will be colder in the morning, as you hike goes on you’ll notice the morning was the worst of the cold.
Choose Sunny Trails
Hiking in the winter can be greatly enhanced by trails bathed in sunlight, which not only helps to keep you warm, but also boosts visibility. Remember, that you can actually still get a sunburn from the high UV reflecting off the snow. Don’t forget a nice pair of sunglasses for a sunny day hike.
Use Plastic Bags As Emergency Gaiters
If you happen to forget your gaiters, don’t panic! You can use plastic grocery bags as your gaiters keeping your feet warm and dry.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you hike in fresh snow?
To hike in fresh snow, use snowshoes for more than four inches of snow, while waterproof boots with good traction are sufficient for less.
What is snow hiking called?
Snow hiking is commonly known as snowshoeing, where you walk through snowy areas using special footwear called snowshoes.
Why is it important to check trail conditions before a winter hike?
It’s crucial to check trail conditions before a winter hike to ensure your safety and readiness. Knowing the snow status and accessibility helps you prepare properly for whatever you might face out there.
What should I include in my first aid kit for winter hiking?
For winter hiking, make sure your first aid kit has bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, any personal medications, and cold-specific items like warming packs and supplies for frostbite treatment.
How can I prevent my water from freezing during a winter hike?
To keep your water from freezing on a winter hike, use insulated bottles and store them upside down.
Adventure Awaits,
Tyler