How to Prepare for a Winter Hike (and Why You Should Try It!)
Winter hiking is truly a special experience. If you’re lucky enough to spend time on a trail after a fresh blanket of snow, you're in for a treat. The snow adds a sense of calm to the surroundings, and everything looks even more beautiful. It’s quieter than other times of year, and the stillness lets you experience the landscape in a way you can’t in warmer months. Sure, it’s colder, but with the right preparation, a winter hike can be just as enjoyable than hiking in the spring, summer or fall.
What You’ll Need for a Winter Hike
When it comes to dressing for winter hiking, layering is key. A base layer, a sweater, fleece-lined pants, and a warm, breathable jacket should be the foundation of your outfit. Depending on the weather and how cold it is, you might also want snow pants. Make sure you’re wearing good boots—hiking boots are ideal, but any sturdy boots will do. Snowshoes or ice grippers are great to have if there’s a lot of snow or ice on the trail, and wool socks are a must. A warm hat and gloves or mitts will keep your extremities from getting too cold. And, it never hurts to bring extras! If you’re worried about your balance, hiking poles are a smart choice.
Stay Safe and Know the Trail Conditions
It’s important to check the trail conditions before heading out. Apps like AllTrails are useful for reading recent reviews from other hikers. Pay attention to the weather leading up to your hike—has it snowed or rained recently? What’s the temperature like? If the trail has had a freeze-and-thaw cycle, be prepared for icy conditions, which can be dangerous. Not all trails are maintained in winter, so it’s also a good idea to check with the organization that manages it to see if it’s open.
If you’re new to hiking, it’s best to stick to flatter, less remote trails, like the Harvest Moon Trail or Miners Marsh. These are easier to navigate and not as likely to have tricky terrain. And remember, one of the benefits of hiring a guide is that we’re out on the trails often, so we know up-to-date conditions and can match the right trail to your experience level.
Weather and Planning
The weather can change quickly, especially in coastal areas, like the Annapolis Valley, so it’s important to check the forecast for the 24 hours before, during, and after your hike. Make sure you have extra socks, mitts, hats, and some snacks in case you need a pick-me-up. Water is important too, but be sure to store it in your pack so it doesn’t freeze. A thermos of tea is a great alternative—it keeps your tea warm and you hydrated.
It’s also important to let someone know your plans. Share the trail you’ll be on, when you expect to finish, and leave your contact information in case of an emergency. We often use AllTrails’ Live Share feature to let our hiker’s loved ones track their hike, and it’s a good way to stay safe. If you don’t check in when you’re expected to, others will know something might be wrong.
How to Keep Going When It Gets Tough
Winter hiking can be harder than hiking in warmer months, but there’s something about the quiet beauty of the snow that keeps you going. If you start to feel tired or lose motivation, take a short break. Sip your tea, have a snack, and give yourself a moment to rest. You don’t want to stop for too long, but a quick pause can help you recharge and keep moving.
Don’t feel like you need to rush, either. Winter hikes are about taking your time and enjoying the experience. If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, it’s always okay to turn back at any point. It’s better to be safe than risk injury.
Why You Should Try Winter Hiking
So, why should you try winter hiking? It’s a great way to spend those long, cold months. Not only does it get you moving, but it’s also great for mental health and physical fitness. Winter hiking offers a completely different way to experience nature, with quiet trails, beautiful snow-covered landscapes, and a chance to slow down and reflect. It’s an activity you can do on your own, or share with others.
Getting Started
If you’re new to winter hiking, a guided hike can be a great way to ease into it. Whether it’s with One Star Hiking, a local recreation department, or a hiking club, having a guide takes the guesswork out of planning. You’ll be able to focus on the experience while a local expert handles the details, from the trail conditions to safety precautions. Plus, guided hikes are a great way to meet new people and enjoy the outdoors with others.
Winter hiking may require a bit more preparation than hiking in the other months, but it’s worth the effort. You’ll get to slow down, connect with nature, and experience the winter landscape in a way that you can’t at other times of year. So, check the forecast, grab your gear, and get outside—winter hikes are waiting to show you a whole new side of the outdoors.
