Imagine crisp, fresh air filling your lungs, the sound of snow crunching beneath your boots, and breathtaking landscapes that look like they've been dusted with sugar. Winter hiking offers all this and more. It’s an incredible way to experience nature in a different light – think fewer crowds, stunning vistas and the peace that comes with the quiet of a snowy trail. Ready to dive into this chilly adventure? Here’s everything you need to know to get started with winter hiking.
Why winter hiking?
Just about any trail you can hike during summer can also be tackled when the temperature drops and snow covers the earth. Winter transforms landscapes you might already be familiar with into wonderlands of snow-covered trees, frozen lakes and clear, blue skies. And for those among us who flinch at the thought of fanging down mountains at high speed, a winter hike is a much calmer, although still demanding way to take in alpine settings.
For keen summer hikers, there are some major differences to observe when winter rolls around. First, winter hiking is more demanding, so you’ll need to ensure you build up fitness and endurance. Start on shorter trails than you might hike in summer and see how you go.
On the upside, however, trails that bustle in the summer can be serene and solitary in the winter. You might even find you have a trail to yourself. And company isn’t the only thing lacking. When winter rolls around, you can say goodbye to mosquitos, flies, ticks and other annoying pests.
What you need for winter hiking
Before heading out, it’s crucial to have the right gear to keep you warm, dry and safe. Layering is essential, as conditions can change quickly. Your base layer should be made of a moisture-wicking material, like merino wool or synthetic fibres, to keep sweat away from your skin. Then, you’ll need a down or synthetic puffy jacket to create a light, warm mid-layer. Finally, a water and windproof jacket and pants will protect against the elements.
Choose insulated, waterproof hiking boots, teamed with wool or synthetic socks. For an extra level of comfort, put spare socks in your backpack, so you can change if the ones you have on become damp.
The other items of gear you’ll need are a warm hat and gloves, neck gaiter or balaclava to protect your face from the cold, sunglasses or googles to protect your eyes from sunshine reflected off the snow, and hiking poles to help with balance and stability. Then top it off with a backpack to carry your extra layers, food, water and emergency supplies.
Staying safe, getting technical
There are several pieces of safety gear you’ll need before hiking in the snow. While it’s tempting to rely on your phone’s GPS and Google Maps, you should always carry a map and compass in case your battery runs out or you end up with no signal. Take a small first-aid kit to treat any blisters or small injuries you get on the trail. Pack a headlamp for those times you get caught out in the dark, and include an emergency blanket in case you get sick or injured and have to stay warm.
One of the biggest mistakes people make when hiking in winter is not consuming enough food. Your body burns energy faster in the cold than in the heat, so pack more than enough snacks. Good options include sandwiches with cold meats and avocado, protein bars, nuts, pieces of cheese and chocolate. Make sure you bring plenty of water – put your bottle in your backpack upside down to stop the lid from freezing closed – and a thermos of hot tea or chocolate to drink during rest stops.
When you begin trekking longer trails, you might like to look at traction devices, like microspikes or crampons, for icy trails and snowshoes for deep snow.
Planning your winter hike
Proper planning is key to a successful winter hike. Start with short, well-known trails – even better if you’ve hiked them during summer. There are websites like AllTrails where you can find details of trails in areas around the world. Visitor centres at national parks and the activities manager at hotels are also excellent reservoirs of information about great walks. As a general rule, don’t pick a trail that gains more than 500 metres of elevation, particularly while you’re starting out.
Once you’ve decided, check trail reports and weather conditions before heading out. Also be aware weather conditions can change rapidly, especially the higher up a mountain you go, so always be ready for sudden changes.
Days are shorter in winter and it takes longer to walk a trail covered in snow. Be sure to leave yourself plenty of time to get back to base before darkness falls and always carry a headlamp just in case.
Last but certainly not least, always inform someone about your hiking route and estimated return time.
On the trail: tips for a great winter hike
Hiking in snow takes more energy than walking on dry trails. Start slow and maintain a steady pace. You don’t want to be working so hard that you become sweaty. Adjust your layers throughout the walk so that you’re warm, but take off a layer before you start sweating. Getting sweaty and damp will have you running the risk of getting the chills.
Always be on the lookout for any signs of hypothermia (paleness, exhaustion, shaking hands, unsteady on your feet, confusion) or frostbite (numbness or tingling in your hands, feet or face; patches of red, purple, white or brown on the skin; pain) and take fast action if you notice it in yourself or your hiking buddies.
Always follow the trail and ensure you don’t lose it under snow. Keep an eye on markers and use your map and compass. Break regularly for snacks and a drink because you’ll soon find yourself depleted if you don’t keep up your calorie intake.
Most of all, enjoy the serenity and the white landscape. Take time to stop, breathe and appreciate the beauty around you.
Follow us — @peakedmagazine
© Peaked Pty Ltd. All Rights Reserved.