Top Tips to Hike in the Cold

Top Tips to Hike in the Cold

Most people probably shake their heads when asked if they would hike in the cold, snowy terrain. But I say, "Lets' go!!". I know hiking in the snow can seem a bit daunting, but it can also be some of the coolest memories and moments if you have the right gear. Below our my top tips to hike in the cold. Let's turn that mindset around so you can enjoy the outdoors all year round!

Clothing:
1. Wear layers! Depending on how cold it is for the top portion, I recommend wearing at least a underlayer, fleece, coat, and if need be a shell covering. For the bottoms, I recommend a insulated legging and then a hiking pant over it.
2. Wear waterproof and insulated hiking boots so your feet don't get wet and cold
3. Wear synthetic or wool socks so your feet don't get wet and cold too
4. Wear insulated hats, gloves, and grab a neck gaiter for your neck and face
5. Bring handwarmers and feet warmers if you do start to get more cold
6. Sunglasses since the snow tends to reflect a lot of light
7. Snowshoes or crampons
8. Trekking poles with attachments for snow

Food:
1. Pack water bottles since the tubing with your water bladders may freeze up
2. Pack snacks that won't be hard to eat when cold such as trail mix, candy bars, cheese, and chocolate. Always keep your food close to your body so they don't get too hard either.
3. If you only have a water bladder, try using an insulate tube to prevent freezing, or sipping often and blowing into the tube to keep warm.
4. Pack hot tea or hot chocolate in a insulated bottle to sip on to keep warm
*It is easy to forget to eat and drink in the cold so make sure you remind your hiking buddy to check in with each other or set a reminder on your phone*

General Gear:
Go back to our article on what to bring on a hike.

Terrain:
1. Avoid hiking on icy areas
2. Be familiar with your route
3. Be avalanche aware and prepared
4. Watch for wildlife
5. Be comfortable with turning around if you don't feel well, the weather changes, the trail changes, etc.

By being prepared will help reduce your chances of developing hypothermia, or frostbite. If you or your hiking buddy start to show signs of either try to get to a warm area, remove wet clothing, try drinking hot liquids, and if the person continues to get worse please go to a hospital! These tips are here to support you and give you the confidence you need to get out all year round. Happy hiking y'all!