If you live in a place that has long, cold winters, then you know what it’s like to spend the colder months indoors. You can still enjoy the outdoors during the winter season, though! With hiking in the winter, the woods are calm and quiet and most importantly hardly no bugs or mosquitoes. Winter hiking gives the same ol’ trails new life and experiences. With these three tips, you’ll be hiking in the winter without freezing your tail off. Here’s what to do.
Dress in Layers
A lot of people don’t know how to dress for hiking in the winter, yet it’d pretty simple. It’s important to layer your clothes so that if you’re too hot you can take off a layer or put on an extra one if you are too cold. Having on base layers from polyester or merino wool is where you should start.
Protect Your Head and Extremities
To make sure your extremities stay toasty and comfy when you’re hiking in the winter, it’s important to pay attention to them. Make sure you wear gloves/mittens on your hands and cover any exposed skin with a scarf or hat. Keep an eye on the snow – when it gets too deep, stop hiking and turn back around.
Never hike alone in the winter – not only is it less fun, but if something happens to you while you’re out there (like falling into a snow bank), there’s nobody there to help.
Know When To Turn Back
If you’re hiking in the winter, there are a few things you should keep in mind. If you’re not careful, it’s easy to lose your way or get lost. You may also run into sudden snowstorms or icy conditions which can make your hike much more difficult and dangerous.
Be sure to plan your route and check the weather before heading out so that you know what to expect. Bring extra clothing (including boots) if necessary and take along plenty of water, food, and other supplies.
If the temperature drops below 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-7 Celsius), try to stay on paths that have been cleared by human activity, such as roads or snowmobile trails. Stay off thin ice or walk close to shorelines where there is thicker ice for support.
At the end of the day just make smart decisions and be extra cautious. Winter hikes make a familiar place look completely different and add a whole new experience. Be Safe and Happy Hiking!
