Winter hiking requires some more planning than a regular hiking excursion because you need to take extra safety precautions to combat harsh elements. Here are several important things to be aware of that differ from hiking in other seasons:
- Daylight hours are shorter in winter, so hit the trail early to avoid being out in the dark.
- Winter hiking takes longer than summer hiking – you tend to move slower and encounter more obstacles. Plan accordingly.
- Technological devices tend to malfunction in cold temperatures, so bring extra batteries/battery packs. Don’t rely on your phone.
- Snowpack can hide the trail and trail markers making it easier to get lost. Pay attention and know how to use a map.
- Exercising in winter burns more calories, so you need to stay nourished. This will keep you warm, too.
- Dehydration expedites the onset of hypothermia, so stay hydrated. If you feel thirsty, you’re already dehydrated.
TIPS FOR STAYING WARM HIKING IN THE WINTER
Of course, you’ll be more comfortable staying active outdoors during the winter if you’ve got appropriate winter hiking gear. But, there are some more steps you can take to stay warm that are just as important.
Bring A Warm Drink In A Thermos
One of our favorite winter hiking tips is to fill up a big thermos, like this one, with your favorite hot beverage. Hot cocoa, cider, chai tea, or even soup broth is great for quick sips to warm you up. While we probably don’t need to say it, go without alcohol on cold-weather hikes, as alcohol reduces your body temperature. You can enjoy that hot toddy once you’re back at home.
Stay Hydrated
Use an insulating hose for your Camelback or an insulated bottle sleeve for water bottles when you hike in winter. This will prevent water in the hose from freezing if you are in extreme temperatures. If you don’t have a special water bottle, wrap your water bottle in some wool socks or in a beanie in your backpack to help insulate it.
Hike With The Sun
In summer months, you want to avoid the sunniest part of the day when hiking. In the winter, it’s the opposite. For winter hiking, try to time your hike for when the sun is highest in the sky and the warmest. As soon as the sun drops behind the mountains and the trail becomes shady, temperatures can drop significantly. If you plan on catching the sunset, we recommend not being too far from the trailhead and make sure to pack extra layers.
This is an excerpt. If you want to read the entire guide, go to:
Winter Hiking Tips: The Ultimate Guide to Hiking in Snow – Bearfoot Theory