Hiking in the winter can be fun, although hikers should venture out into a winter wonderland with both the beauty of snow-covered trees and the challenges of cold-weather hiking in mind. There does not have to be deep snow on the ground in the middle of winter for cold weather to be a real threat and danger to hikers. To have a more pleasant cold-weather hike, follow these most important tips for maximum enjoyment and safety.
1) Wear and Pack Proper Cold-Weather Clothing and Gear
You should always dress in multiple layers when hiking in the winter, with your base layer being a wicking fabric that will pull sweat away from the skin and help to keep you dry. You will still sweat when hiking in the winter and moisture that cannot escape can freeze and cause hypothermia. Heat management is important because you want to stay dry and not sweat as wet clothes will make you feel cold.
Follow the 3-layer principle of having at least 3 layers with your base layer in a wicking fabric, avoid cotton clothing as it takes a long time to dry when it gets wet and it can leave you feeling cold, wet and miserable. This first layer transports moisture away from your skin and helps to regulate your body temperature to keep your base layer dry.
The mid-layer should have insulating properties like fleece or a down jacket. Make sure the top-layer provides protection against wind and rain like a light windbreaker or a water-resistant outer shell. Always pack some emergency jackets and layers in case some layers get wet.
Always wear a hat when outdoors in the winter, as you lose a lot of precious body heat when you do not keep your head covered. While it is important to keep your head warm, it is critical to protect your feet when hiking in the snow. Make sure that your hiking boots have sufficient insulation and are rated for -40°F. Some good wool socks should help to keep your feet dry and be sure to pack an extra pair. Cover your mouth, nose and ears and use hand warmers and toe warmers to keep your digits toasty especially if you frequently have cold hands and feet.
2) Keep Your Water Warm
You can boil your water in the morning, put it in a water bottle with a Koozie or foam sleeve wrapped around it to take with you on your hike. Keeping your sealed water bottle inside your jacket should keep it from freezing.
3) Break Trail with Caution
When you are the first person on the trail after a snowfall, creating a path through the snow is called breaking trail. You should have an idea of how much snow is on the trail before you set out to hike and keep in mind that forging through deep snow can slow you down. Make sure you have the proper footwear accessories like snowshoes and trekking poles with snow baskets.
4) Protection – Eyes and Skin
Just because it is not summertime, don’t think the sun’s rays cannot be harmful. Do not forget to pack the sunscreen as the sun’s glare reflects off of the shiny white snow. You should also protect your eyes from the sun and the wind, with a good pair of sunglasses or goggles.
5) Prepare for Shorter Days and Colder Nights
Keep in mind that the days are shorter and night fall will be upon you much quicker than in the summer months. Always be aware of the usable daylight hours and carry a flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries. If camping overnight in the winter, warm camp bedding is critical. Always use a sleeping pad under your sleeping bag and go with a mummy sleeping bag rated for 10° colder than what you expect needing.
Be sure to pack according to your trip specifics and how long you will be gone. Follow these tips for a safer hike in winter months, always pack your essential emergency kits and be sure to let someone know where you are hiking and when you plan to return.
Cascade Mountain Tech for All Your Camping Gear
Cascade Mountain Tech cares about your safety when hiking anytime of the year. We offer camp bedding including mummy sleeping bags, sleeping pads and the Adventure Blanket. We carry foldable, packable lightweight camping chairs made with quality materials for durability and a wide selection of hiking trekking poles and accessories.
Cascade Mountain Tech offers high-quality hiking and camping gear built to last in any season. We believe in helping everyone to achieve outdoor adventure. Contact us with any questions about your hiking gear for more information on how to stay safe when hiking in the winter.
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