15 Winter Hiking Tips for Beginners: Snow & Cold Safety

The crisp air, the serene silence, and the stunning winter wonderland—winter hiking offers a unique and rewarding experience. However, venturing into the snowy wilderness requires careful preparation and adherence to safety guidelines. Actionable winter hiking tips will help you get outside in the cold and snow more safetly, more often.

Whether you’re a novice hiker or a seasoned outdoor enthusiast, these 15 winter hiking tips will equip you with the knowledge and skills to stay safe and enjoy your next winter adventure.

Actionable Tips for Winter Hiking

Our goal is to stay safe and warm in the snow and cold. We know that winter hiking can be intimidating, even for the most seasoned warm weather hikers. But, as intimidating as it can be, it’s worth it to educate yourself and take the leap.

These 15 winter hiking tips are designed to help you stay safe and warm outside this winter! 

1. Your Layering System is Key

Layers of clothing, how do I do it? What do I wear and where? You want to be warm without sweating profusely. Once your clothing is wet its ability to retain heat becomes impaired. It’s important that you choose each layer properly so that you can shed clothing items are you hike and your body temperature increases. 

How Do You Layer For a Winter Hike?

Layer 1: Base Layer. Thin, moisture-wicking base layer should be a merino wool or synthetic fabric on top and bottom

Layer 2: Middle Layers. Fleece layer, but grid fleece is my personal favorite

Layer 3: Insulating Layer. Puffy Zippered Vest (this is generally what I wind up hiking in)

Layer 4: Insulating Layer. Puffy Jacket with hood (worn or packed to start your hike!)

Layer 5: Outer Layer. Hard Shell, waterproof Pants and Jacket

Layer 6: Accessories (Necessities)! Fleece Winter Hat, Waterproof Gloves, Wool Socks /Battery-powered Heated Socks, & Gaiters

Footwear: Insulated Winter Hiking Boot / Waterproof Boots

I have shared a few affiliate links for my favorite base layers, grid fleece, battery-powered socks, and winter hiking boots! This is the most important of the winter hiking tips as it covers comfort, lends to safety on the trail, and it the first step in getting outside in colder weather successfully.

**Always pack an extra pair of each accessory!** You likely won’t be upset over the extra layers you’ve packed. As long as there’s room to store your outer layers when you start to build body head, fill that pack up with extra clothing.

2. Allow Yourself Appropriate Time Frames

Hiking and Snowshoeing require similar effort (unless you’re breaking trail that is!), however, snowshoeing will take you longer. Please allow yourself more time to hike a trail in the snowy, winter months. Plan small for your first couple of winter adventures to see what speed you generally move at; it’s only up from here! 

Breaking Trail means that you are the first person to walk over the untouched snow. The deeper the snow, the more difficult it will be to break trail. It’s important that you wear snowshoes when the snow is 6-8″ or deeper. If the trail is hard packed snow, you can wear micro spikes for traction and you’ll likely travel at the same speed as summer hiking. 

When calculating hiking time in winter, you can use Naismith’s rule, which estimates that it takes:

• Elevation gain: One hour for every 600 meters of elevation gain
• Distance: One hour for every three miles on the map

Naismith’s rule assumes hikers are of reasonable fitness and tackling typical terrain under pleasant weather conditions. The size and pace of your group, winter conditions, and difficult terrain can make this estimate inaccurate. 

3. Your Winter Hiking Equipment is Important 

There’s always so much to plan for! First and foremost, make sure you have a good understanding of what your hike will entail and what kind of gear you might need. You absolutely need the right gear to take on winter hiking. Depending on what type of terrain you’re tackling you’ll need different traction devices.  

Snowshoes

Snowshoes are needed to safe travel in deeper snow. Hiking through snow without snowshoes may cause you to post hole. Post holing means your foot is taking a vertical plunge into a blanket of snow with each step. This is dangerous for you and future hikers (don’t do it.)

Snowshoes are a pair of large, flat frames with bindings that attach to your boots. They’re designed to distribute your weight over a larger surface area, allowing you to walk on top of snow without sinking in. This makes it possible to traverse snowy terrain that would otherwise be impassable. There are different types of snowshoes, each designed for specific conditions:

Recreational Snowshoes:These are the most common type of snowshoe, designed for casual winter hiking and snowshoeing. They’re typically lightweight and easy to use. 

Backcountry Snowshoes: These snowshoes are designed for more challenging terrain, such as deep snow and steep slopes. They often have larger decks and more aggressive crampons for better traction.

Mountaineering Snowshoes: These are specialized snowshoes designed for technical mountaineering and ice climbing. They have rigid frames and aggressive crampons for maximum traction and stability on steep, icy slopes.

Micro Spikes

Micro spikes are a type of traction device designed to provide extra grip on icy and hard-packed snow surfaces. They are typically made of a flexible rubber or elastomer frame with small, hardened steel spikes embedded in the bottom.
  
Microspikes are easy to put on and take off, and they can be worn over most types of winter footwear, including hiking boots, running shoes, and casual shoes. They are lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry in a backpack or pocket. I recommend carrying micro spikes in your pack on all hikes that gain elevation between Late October and Early May! 

Crampons

Crampons are intended for use on ice in high incline areas or when technical mountaineering to provide traction. These traction devices attach to the bottom of your boots to provide grip on snow and ice. They are essential gear for winter hiking, mountaineering, and ice climbing.   
There are different types of crampons, each designed for specific activities and terrain.

Rigid crampons: These are the most common type of crampon and are used for technical ice climbing and mountaineering. They have a rigid frame that provides excellent stability and traction on steep ice and snow.   

Semi-automatic crampons:These crampons have a hinged front section that allows for more flexibility and comfort during walking. They are a good option for general mountaineering and winter hiking.

Hybrid crampons: These crampons combine features of both rigid and semi-automatic crampons, offering a balance of stability and flexibility.They are a versatile option for a variety of winter activities.   

Ice Axe

An Ice Axe allows for additional traction and to help you to arrest your fall in the event that you slip. An ice axe is a versatile tool used by mountaineers and winter hikers for both ascent and descent in icy or snowy conditions.

It typically consists of a metal head with a sharp pick at one end and an adze (a flat blade) at the other. The pick is used for self-arresting in case of a fall, as well as for chopping steps in ice or hard snow. The adze is used for cutting steps in snow and for anchoring the axe in the snow for support. The shaft can also be used as a walking stick or for self-arresting

One of the most important winter hiking tips is to know what you need to have in your daypack for a successful time of te trail! Pack the following items into a comfortable backpack:

What do I Need To Pack For Winter Hiking?

• First Aid Kit 
• Hand Warmers/ Foot Warmers
• Water (64oz.)
• Snacks
• Extra Hat
• Spare Gloves
• Extra pair of Socks
• Packable Down Coat
• Tissues
• Ten Essentials (Fire Starter, Navigation, Headlamp, Knife, etc.)
• Duct Tape 
• Camp Blanket/Bivy/Sleeping Bag 
• Personal Location Beacon

I’ve linked some of the equipment that I have been using for years to help you narrow down your search! 

4. Take a Course and Educate Yourself

As always, with any kind of wilderness adventure, please make sure you are appropriately equipped in both gear and knowledge. You can usually find basic trainings and pertinent information through local organizations. If you’re having trouble, look on-line! 

Great places to start includes the Leave No Trace Principles! Local Mountain Clubs and Organizations might also offer classes on winter safety, avalanche training, and more. I would also suggest that all outdoor enthusiasts look into taking a wilderness first aid course as well (or at a minimum read up on proper winter first aid needs.)

If you will be hiking somewhere there is known Avalanche danger, be sure to properly educate yourself on that too. Avalanches are a serious hazard for winter backcountry enthusiasts, including hikers. They occur when a large mass of snow slides down a mountainside. Steep slopes, snowpack instability, weater conditions, and human triggering all contribute to avalanche risk. Plan your winter recreation around the avalanche forecast and hike with an avalanche beacon.

5. Follow All Leave No Trace Principles

There are 7 Leave No Trace Principles that all people outdoors should follow:

• Plan ahead and prepare.
• Travel and camp on durable surfaces.
• Dispose of waste properly.
• Leave what you find.
• Minimize campfire impacts (be careful with fire).
• Respect wildlife.
• Be considerate of other visitors.

Ones that really stick out to me in winter include planning and preparing, disposing of waste properly, and being considerate of other visitors. 

Disposing of waste properly is big for me… and it should be for you too. Please pack out all of your toilet paper, all of the time. If you plan ahead and prepare it should be easy for you to be considerate of other visitors. No one wants to see your human waste or toilet paper along the trail. 

6. Snack Storage is Important

Store snacks close to your core for heat and easy access. There are creative ways to keep your trail snacks from freezing, but I find that keeping them in an interior pocket is the best option. There’s nothing worse than stopping for a snack break and realizing your means of energy is frozen.

It’s also important to have access to your fuel when you need it. The cold can convince us we’re not hungry for a number of reasons, but it’s likely you are. You may not feel hungry, but cold temperatures and breaking trail through the snow requires a lot of energy; make sure you are appropriately equipped with enough snacks!

Some of my favorite cold weather snacks include trial mix, jerky, pop tarts, energy chews, and snickers! There’s just something about a slightly frozen snickers bar on a frosty summit. I almost always pack a peanut butter & jelly sandwich with banana as well… it sill tastes good partially frozen and checks off my energy needs boxes. Extra food is never a bad idea in winter conditions where you’ll likely be on the trail for longer and your chances of being stuck out there unexpectedly are greater. 

7. Prevent Your Water From Freezing 

Store your water bottles lid-side-down in your pack. This will just change ‘the top’ which is likely to freeze first. Having a wide mouth opening and filling your water bottle with warm water before departure also help prevent water from freezing.   

Insulated waterbottles might be heavier to carry on the trail but they will take longer to freeze. With this in mind, you may want to pack an insulated water bottle on your next winter hike if you’re worries about your water freezing. 

Despite cold temps, you need to drink plenty of water. You want to drink just as much water as you normally do when hiking during the warmer months. If you find it difficult to acocmplish this task, consider setting a timer on your watch to stop and drink. 

8. The Cold Drains Electronic Devices

The cold causes batteries to die faster. Keep this in mind if you plan on using your phone, a headlamp, or a camera while winter hiking.

It’s a good idea to use hand and body warmers to keep these items warm in your bag while you’re hiking. I find that if my phone is in my vest pocket, it stays warm enough through my body heat. My head lamp, however, stays in my pack and it usually wrapped up in my extra hat and socks. One of the best winter hiking tips I can share with you it to pack extra batteries for your headlamp in the colder months.

And please, for the love of all things holy, carry a paper map. You can’t solely rely on your cellphone out there, no matter the temperature, but definitely not during cold weather. Reference your phone if it makes you happy, but please carry additional navigation and know how to use it.

 9. Warm Drinks Bring Life! 

Pack a thermos full of hot cocoa, coffee, or tea! I’ve been loving my RINGO (code: KAITLYN10 for 10% off) because it serves two purposes: it keeps my drink warm (or cold) and is a portable tripod for my phone! Warm yourself up from the inside out with a simple sip and then snag a beautiful clip of the scenery.

My favorite hot beverage for the trail is a protein hot cocoa! Mix your favorite flavor of protein powder with a half scoop of hot chocolate, hot water, and a splash of milk (or eggnog if you’re feeling fancy). Have a toasty beverage that will benefit your nutrition needs at the same time! 

Another good idea is to put soup in a thermos for your winter hike. A tasty trail treat that replenishes fluids efficiently, provides warmth through its hot temperature, offers easily digestible nutrients, and boosts morale should not be overlooked! 

10. Plan for Seasonal Road Closures

Seasonal roads are seasonal for a reason. Many trails begin deep into the wilderness on access roads. It’s important that you do your research ahead of time to know what you’re getting yourself into. 

An extra half mile each way if the access road isn’t plowed or has a gate closure isn’t terrible. An extra 3 miles each way is borderline not worth it…

Don’t count seasonal road trailheads out entirely. Many seasonal roads do allow snowmobile access. This may be an option for you if this is a hobby of yours. Additionally, if you are a cross-country skier, skiing to the trailhead from the parking area is a great way to save time and effort to get to the trailhead.

11. Be Aware of the Weather Forecast

Take a look at the weather forecast and plan your day accordingly. Check temperature, wind chill, visibility, precipitation, and sunrise and set. Keep in mind that temperatures and weather change at higher elevations. 

High winds pose a significant increase in winter hiking dangers. The risk for Hypothermia, Frostbite, Reduced Visibility, Physical Exhaustion, and Falling Hazards are all heightened during excessively windy conditions. Warm layers will always help but won’t always completely mitage the risk so please be away of the winter weather conditions prior to getting out! 

Daylight hours are shorter through the winter months. The sun sets earlier in the winter. It’s important to keep this in mind. Although it’s nice to catch later sunrises and/or earlier sunsets on the trail, getting caught in the dark without additional layers and a light source could be disastrous. 

12. Colder Days Mean Clearer Skies 

This one might be tough to swallow… but generally speaking, the colder it is the clearer the sky. My favorite winter hikes with the most gorgeous views have been my coldest days on the trail.

Winter hiking tips that help us with views are a win! At the the trailhead for this particular hike (photo above) it was negative 12 degrees but so sunny and clear. As soon as we started moving and gaining elevation we warmed right up and enjoyed every second of the trail! It was worth it to bundle up for these bluebird skies and empty summits. 

It’s important to away of and bring sun protection on these days. When the sky is clear and the sun is out, you can yourself with a greater risk of sunburn.Fresh snow can reflect up to 90% of the sun’s UV radiation, essentially doubling your exposure to the harmful rays by bouncing back up towards your skin. Wear moisturizer with SPF, goggles or sun glasses, and maybe put a little extra sunscreen on exposed regions

13. Know What Hypothermia Looks Like

Frostbite and hypothermia are no joke! If you’re properly layered and geared up with a warm hat, toasty mittens, and proper footwear you should be okay. Regardless, it’s important to know what these things look like and what your next steps are. The onset of hypothermia has a handful of symptoms you need to be aware of if you’re going to start winter hiking! 

Symptoms of Hypothermia

1. Core body temperature drop.
2. Shivering.
3. Exhaustion or feeling very tired.
4. Confusion.
5. Fumbling hands.
6. Memory loss.
7. Slurred speech.
8. Drowsiness.
9. Loss of consciousness.
10. Coma.

If you are noticing these signs in yourself or someone on the trail, take action quickly. Take their temperature if you have the ability to. If its below 95 degrees, seek medical attention immediately. In the meantime, do everything you can to warm up the core body temperature.

• Move away from wind and water, 
• remove wet clothing, 
• gradually warm with movement, heat packs, additional layers, and/or friction,
• offer a warm drink, warm sugary beverages if available, and
• begin CPR if needed

14. Don’t Follow Footprints

One of the unique challenges of winter hiking is being able to see where the person before you went… 

It’s easier to follow footprints in the winter. They’re just too tempting, I know, but try your very best not to. You need to follow trail markers. You can’t trust the people who have hiked the trail before you! 

This is part of the reason why navigation tools are so important! Someone’s footprints could easily lead you astray and heavy snowfall can cover the trail you once followed. One of the best parts of winter hiking is that there are fewer people on the trail – but this is also one of the potential dangers of winter hiking. There are less people out and about on the trail to help you when you may need it…

If you find yourself off trail in the winter, here are some steps to take:

1. Stay Calm: Panic can cloud judgment and lead to poor decisions.Take a deep breath and assess the situation.   
2. Conserve Energy: Avoid unnecessary exertion. Find a sheltered spot to rest and conserve your body heat.
3. Assess Your Situation: Determine your location, the weather conditions, and the resources you have available.
4. Stay Put: In most cases, it’s best to stay put and wait for rescue. Moving around can waste energy and make it harder for rescuers to find you.
5. Build a Shelter: If you need to stay overnight, build a shelter using natural materials like snow or branches.   
6. Signal for Help: Use a whistle, mirror, or flashlight to signal for help. Build a fire to attract attention, but be cautious and follow fire safety guidelines.   
7. Conserve Heat: Bundle up in layers, including a hat and gloves. If you get wet, change into dry clothes as soon as possible.
8. Stay Hydrated: Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.   
9. Eat Regularly: Consume high-energy foods to maintain your body temperature. (this is why extra food is important)
10. Use Your Phone Wisely: If you have cell service, call for help. If not, conserve battery power by using it only for emergencies.

These winter hiking tips for getting lost can save your life. Review them and come up with a personal plan for when you find yourself off trail and turned around.

15. Make a Plan and Share It

Write out a very specific plan for your winter hiking trip and share it with someone you trust. Your hiking plans should include what trailhead you’ll be starting from (and ending at if different), what trail you’re taking and where/what your destination is, any spur trails you plan on taking, and what time you plan on starting your hike. 

Once you have compiled this information, share it with a loved one. Included in this winter hiking trip information should be a time you will reach them by on the day of your hike. It’s important that you take into consideration that you might have to leave the trailhead and drive for a bit until you have cell phone service when calculating a time. 

If you do not reach out to this individual by the scheduled time, it’s their responsibility to first, call you. If you do not pick up then it’s their responsiblity to call the DEC and/or State Police. They will need to share your hike information with them so make sure your plan is detailed enough that you can easily be found if you need help!

This is one of those winter hiking tips that can quite literally save your life. It’s so very important that you do this with every winter hiking adventure you take!

Conclusion

By planning ahead, dressing in layers, and being mindful of the potential dangers, you can enjoy a safe and rewarding winter hiking experience. Remember to check the weather forecast, inform someone of your plans, and be prepared for unexpected conditions. With the help of our winter hiking tips, you can make the most of your winter adventures.

Winter hiking offers a unique and breathtaking experience. By following these safety tips and packing the right gear, you can confidently explore the winter wonderland. Remember, preparation is key. So, bundle up, lace up your boots, and embrace the beauty of the winter outdoors.