6 Tips for Winter Hiking
Winter hikes just hit different, for a variety of reasons. While there are some excellent tips for summer hiking, winter hiking is a whole new ball game. Here are just a few tips for hiking during the winter that you need to know about.
1. Pack the right gear for different conditions
You could find that the weather conditions change as you hike. If you're going up hill, the temperature could drop. Maybe there was an overnight frost that you weren't expecting. Make sure you're packing layers and winter gear like hats, gloves, scarves and thermals.
You will also need waterproof clothing, including jackets and trousers. Also, make sure your footwear is up to the job. They need to be comfortable, have good grip and be waterproof. You could also bring some handy warmers just in case.
2. Put layers on as your hike goes on
What this means is to start off in the car park wearing fewer layers. As the hike goes on, add layers. Not only does this help you to stay warm, but it also stops your body from cooling down. What you don't want to do is take layers off as you go.
3. Make sure your outer layers are easy to get to
Make sure waterproof jackets and trousers, for example, can be accessed easily. This means that, if it does start to snow or rain, you can put layers on as soon as possible to prevent cooling down, and you won't have to dig around in you bag looking for things. It's just generally easier.
4. Keep your electronic devices dry & charged up
It can be difficult during a winter hike, but you need to make sure that your devices are dry so that they remain in working order. This is important because you may need a phone or GPS should you get lost or need to contact someone for whatever reason.
5. Take short breaks
Hiking can be hard work, so it's important that you find time to take breaks as and when needed. But winter hikes pose a different problem - cold. What you don't want to do is sit for too long and let your body cool down. If you must take a break, do so in short, sharp bursts and only when needed.
6. Always check the weather
Before heading out, ALWAYS check what the weather is going to be doing in that area. If it's going to snow or if the temperature drops too low, then abandon the hike and go another time when the weather is dryer and brighter. What you don't want to do is get caught out.
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I hope you enjoyed this blog post and that you found it useful? Let me know in the comments below what you like to do to enjoy a winter hike and I'll see you all again soon with some brand new content!
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