Winter hiking can be an enjoyable experience as well with the trees covered with a dusting of snow and animals tracks crossing the trails.
People are surprised when I say I go on walking holidays all year round.
Depending on the snow, weather and trail conditions you may be able to just hike in your boots, or use STABILicers Lite Ice Cleats
If you want to be happy winter hiking then take care of the cold; wet; being hungry and/or being tired and you will have a great time.
You must hydrate and fuel up to stay warm and happy. If a really cold temperature have many short breaks so you do not freeze when stopped. If hiking with a Camelback sip often if freezing temperatures and run the hose through the jacket to keep it from freezing.
Like all outdoor sports dress in layers. Start with a base T-shirt and light jacket that wicks off the moisture as it is amazing how much heat you generate when hiking, even in the winter. If extra cold add a fleece and a Gore Tex jacket. You will also require gloves while hiking and light mitts while stopped.
Your boots should be lined with a Merino wool sock which offer long soft fibers and does not itch or shrink. Wool adjusts to temperatures, keeping you warm when you are cold and cooler when you are hot. You need to manage moisture so leave room in your boots for circulation. Some of the recommended brands of socks include Ice brand, Patagonia and Wigwam Men’s Merino Comfort Hiker 2-Pack Sock
Winter hiking can either be a day trip or a resort weekend. Do not let cold weather spoil your winter hiking experiences.
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