The 4 Winter Hiking Essentials

Why Go Winter Hiking?

When the temperatures drop and the snow begins to fall. Many people feel their hiking season is over. The joy they find from their frequent summer hikes is quickly gone. This shouldn’t be the case!

When we learn what to wear and use to make hiking as fun and safe as it is in the warmer months, a new season is unlocked with the potential for joy, new adventures, and new friends. 

Image Provided by Seth Bolander

Before you get out on your first winter hike, let’s remember that winter is no joke! Let’s dive into the winter hiking essentials – layering, outerwear, winter hiking gear, and winter trail etiquette. 

In this article we’re going to go over the 4 winter hiking essentials, tell you why each is important, and make some specific gear recommendations to get you into winter hiking for the coming seasons. 

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Layering for Winter Hiking: The Art of Being an Onion 

Similar to our article on “What to Wear Snowboarding.” Here, we’ll go over laying basics, starting with a base layer, then a mid-layer, and finally outerwear.

Base Layer 

The key to staying warm in any situation is to wear a moisture-wicking, thermal base layer. Merino wool is definitely the best option for the lightest and warmest base layer for hiking. Other synthetic wools would be a great option as well. If you can’t grab ahold of one of these options, just remember you want material that will pull sweat away, but keep your body heat in. 

You want to avoid a cotton base layer at all costs. When hiking in cold weather, cotton won’t do you any favors, but it will trap moisture and let your body heat escape. 

My all-time favorite base layer for any cold weather activity is an AirBlaster Ninja suit – specifically the Merino wool version. I like that a one-piece will never let cold sneak into open pockets like up my back, and down my neck.  

I’ve also worn some of Columbia Sportswear’s Omni-heat base layers, and let me tell you that technology really works! Omni-heat works with a silver lining on the apparel that reflects your body heat back to you, creating a continuous feedback loop – the warmer you are the warmer the clothes feel. 

Socks! Do not skip out on a good pair of Merino wool or other wool-type socks. There are plenty of companies out there that make hiking-specific socks that have specific areas of compression and support. Smartwool has been around forever and makes incredibly warm and comfortable hiking socks.  

Mid-Layer 

Think of a mid-layer as your heating layer as this is where most of the warmth will come from. When hiking in places like the Boise foothills during the winter, you’ll want a mid-layer with plenty of insulation. You can also think of your mid-layer as the “removable” one. Let’s be real, we never know how the weather is going to turn so having a packable mid-layer option is important, to say the least. 

My favorite types of mid-layers are lightweight, packable, and have synthetic insulation. I say synthetic because natural down has a tendency to hold onto moisture. However, if your outerwear is confidently waterproof, whether the down is synthetic or not won’t matter as much as it would if you were using it as an outer layer. 

My recent mid-layer go-to has been the women’s Delta Ridge Down jacket. This also has omni-heat technology as well as a heat seal, preventing cold from creeping in and out of seams. 

Another option I’ll opt for on those warmer days is a thin-down vest like the one pictured. I like a vest for more freedom of movement in my arms and less overall warmth on my arms.

Shell Layer 

The final layer you’ll need on the outside is a shell layer. This layer isn’t so much for insulation as it is for dryness and windbreaking properties. A good shell jacket should be waterproof with fully tapered seams, have an adjustable hood, stretchable fabric, and some form of ventilation option. 

Cold-weather hiking pants can be a little tricky to find. What kind you’ll want will definitely depend on if you plan on hiking in deep snow and if there will be wet weather. With a good mid-layer sweatpant, waterproof shell pants are a great option and often come with a velcro cinch to tighten around your boots. You can shop for womens waterproof hiking pants from REI’s website here.

When purchasing your shell layer, consider sizing up to ensure your mid-layer can fit comfortably beneath it. On top of this, try on your shell layer with your mid-layer on, so there are no hang-ups on your first day out this season. 

Outerwear: The Shield of Warmth 

Your outerwear includes your shell layer plus boots, gloves, a hat, a facemask/balaclava, and sunglasses/goggles. Consider your outerwear your first defense against Old Man Winter and all his chilling elements. Since we already discussed our shell layer, let’s jump into one of the most critical pieces of apparel for your winter hikes: hiking boots. 

Image Provided by Seth Bolander

Winter Hiking Boots 

It’s important to note here that not all hiking boots are created equal. We can separate hiking boots into two categories: summer boots and winter boots.

Summer Hiking Boots

• Breathable
• Non-insulating
• Usually waterproof

Winter Hiking Boots

• Insulating
• Waterproof
• Specialized traction for ice and snow
• less breathable
• Can come higher up on the ankle

Columbia Sportswear’s Outdry technology helps create winter hiking boots that are both breathable and waterproof. 

It’s important to recognize that there’s a difference between your average snow boot and an actual winter hiking boot. Snow boots tend to be heavier, and usually don’t offer much ankle and foot support. Think of a snow boot as something that is more useful for walks around the city when it snows.

I’ll circle back to Columbia here because I’ve found my most dependable and warmest winter hiking boots here. Specifically the Newton Ridge Waterproof Omni-Heat 2 Boot. These are light, waterproof, offer plenty of support, are super comfortable and the warmth from the Omni-heat and fleece lining around the ankle is unbeatable.

Winter Hiking Gloves/Mittens 

I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again, gloves are good, mittens are better, and trigger mittens are the best. While trigger mittens are still newer in the winter sports industry, they offer effective warmth while giving you the dexterity of your pointer finger and thumb. Gloves are fine and all, but I find when my fingers are separated my hands always feel cold. I love a good mitten too, these Hestra CZone mittens have been a favorite of mine for a couple of seasons now along with Crab Grab Freak Trigger Mittens. 

When looking for a mitten, ensure you get waterproof ones and not just wool ones. You would hate for your hands to get wet from the snow accidentally and be left with frozen fingers. Also, consider looking for mittens with hand warmer inserts in case you run extra cold. 

Beanies/Hats

Did you know you can lose a ton of heat from the top of your head? When hiking in the winter, a hat or beanie is essential for staying warm, especially if you plan to hike above the treeline where the wind and chill can be quite a bit more abrasive. 

There are endless options out there, and what you get will really depend on your style, and the temperature you’re hiking in. I usually just go for a simple ribbed beanie like these, or I’ll opt for a balaclava so my ears are still protected with a brimmed hat of some sort. There are options for waterproof hats, but I just slip my hood on if the weather turns wet. 

Balaclavas/Neck Gaiters

A balaclava and/or a neck gaiter are arguably optional for winter hiking. However, I like them not only for protection from the cold and wind but also from the sun. Where these might be more critical is for hiking above a treeline where the sun exposure gets intense. 

Like beanies and hats, there are several options to choose from. So, what makes a good balaclava or neck gaiter from a bad one? Some face masks are made with that same ribbed cotton we find in so many beanies. This can quickly turn into a hard frozen piece of fabric from the moisture in the air and the moisture from your breath. 

I prefer balaclavas and neck gaiters that are thin, breathable, and have antifreeze properties. BlackStrap makes the ultimate balaclavas and neck gaiters. I even wear these snowboarding, they’re that warm and wind-resistant. What’s more, they come in a dozen or more colors to match your fit.

Sunglasses/Goggles 

As someone with eyes sensitive to the light, I almost never leave the house without my sunnies. In the winter especially, however, the glare from the snow can be temporarily blinding. Not to mention a headache comes on quickly without eye protection. The wind, blowing snow, and the stuff picked up from the wind are all hazardous to the eyes. 

When I hike below the treeline, I opt for a pair of polarized sunglasses like these.

If I’m hiking above the treeline where the wind bites a bit more and the sun pounds down harder, I’ll bring my goggles just in case. I don’t usually slip them on unless the wind really starts to pick up because they can help keep my face warm as well. 

I’ve been wearing Smith Optics for a while now for both my sunglasses and goggles, and they really just don’t miss! They have plenty of options for goggles, with different lens colors for different lighting conditions. They also sell goggles with mag technology to make switch lenses effortless.

Winter Hiking Gear: Tools of the Trade 

Time to talk about the gear that’ll help you navigate the snow-covered trails with confidence. Depending on the type of trail you hike (more on that in the next section) snowshoes can be helpful, along with traction devices for boots. Trekking poles equipped with snow baskets will help maintain your balance.

Lighting is essential since those winter sunsets come earlier than we think. More things we should consider essential are; a whistle, a compass and a map of the area, an insulated water bottle, high-energy snacks, and a first-aid kit (and don’t forget one for your dog if you’re bringing them along too)! Make sure you have a pack for all of this stuff too, and don’t forget to add in an e-blanket. To make it easy, let’s list our gear.

Essential Winter Hiking Gear to Carry

Listen, I know you might think some of this stuff is a bit over the top but I promise you it isn’t. Especially when hiking alone, and even with a buddy safety should always come first. The sad reality is that hikers get lost and go missing quite often, and in the winter the rate of survival drops. The smartest thing to do is to always hike with a buddy. However, if you are choosing to hike in the winter solo, take extra precautions, and always tell people where you plan to go and how long you plan to be there.

If you have the option, I highly suggest taking a wilderness first-aid course. REI consistently holds 2-day classes in several different locations. Check it out and see if you’re close to one!

Winter Hiking Trail Etiquette: Respect Nature and Fellow Hikers 

Winter hiking can offer a unique and serene opportunity to connect with nature, away from the crowds to enjoy the beauty of the snow-covered landscapes. However, with those joys that come from cold-weather hiking come responsibility in the form of trail etiquette. As in any other season of hiking, being a responsible hiker is crucial for ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone and everything. In this section, we’ll explore essential guidelines for winter hiking trail etiquette that will help preserve the environment and ensure a positive experience. 

Stay on Designated Trails 

One of the most important rules of hiking etiquette, regardless of the season, is to stay on designated trails. In the winter, this is especially important because the trails may be less visible under the snow, and off-trail wandering can damage fragile ecosystems. Stick to the established paths to protect the environment and ensure you don’t get lost in the snow. 

To add to this rule, make sure you’re using the correct designated trail. Some trails require snowshoes, some are walk-only trails, and some trails are designated for fat-tire bikes. Pay attention to this at the trailhead so you don’t unknowingly ruin a trail. 

Respect Wildlife 

Winter is a challenging time for wildlife, and many animals are in a state of conservation. Avoid disturbing them by keeping a safe distance, not feeding them, and refraining from making excessive noise. Remember that winter is when many animals struggle to find food, so it’s essential to minimize your impact on their habitats. 

Leave No Trace 

The Leave No Trace principles are as vital in the winter as they are in other seasons. Pack out all trash, even if it’s biodegradable, as decomposition is slower in cold weather. Be especially mindful of waste,  as it’s harder to spot in a pristine snowy landscape. 

Yield the Trail 

When encountering other hikers or snowshoers on the trail, the general rule is that the uphill hiker has the right of way. It’s harder to gain momentum and maintain it when traveling uphill, so yield the trail to them if you’re descending. Additionally, be courteous by stepping aside to let others pass, and remember to greet fellow hikers with a friendly “hello.” 

Keep Your Distance 

Given the ongoing concerns about personal space and health, maintaining a safe distance from other hikers is crucial. Be respectful of fellow hikers’ need for solitude and tranquility in their winter hiking endeavors. This is especially important during a time when the trail may be less crowded. 

Prepare for the Unexpected 

Winter hiking can bring about unpredictable weather and trail conditions. Before hitting the trail, make sure you’re well-prepared with the right gear, clothing, and knowledge. Tell someone your hiking plans, and carry the necessary safety equipment, such as navigation tools, extra clothing, and a first aid kit. 

Be Mindful of Weather Conditions 

Winter weather can change rapidly, so check the forecast before heading out and pay attention to the conditions as you hike. If a storm rolls in, consider turning back and rescheduling your hike for another day. Safety should always come first. 

Keep Noise Levels Down 

Winter hiking provides a unique opportunity to experience the quiet serenity of the natural world. Keep noise levels to a minimum to preserve this peaceful ambiance. Be mindful of conversations, music, and the rustling of gear to ensure that everyone can enjoy the tranquility of the winter wilderness. 

Don’t Cut Corners on Switchbacks 

In winter, switchbacks are essential for safety on steep and icy terrain. Avoid cutting corners or creating new paths. By staying on the designated trail and using switchbacks, you help maintain the trail’s integrity and prevent erosion.

Educate Yourself and Others 

Share your knowledge of winter hiking trail etiquette with others, especially beginners. By spreading awareness and helping fellow hikers understand the importance of responsible hiking, we can all contribute to the preservation of our beautiful winter landscapes. 

Overall, winter hiking trail etiquette is all about respecting nature, wildlife, and your fellow hikers. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that our winter wonderlands remain unspoiled and that everyone can enjoy the magic of a winter hike safely and responsibly. So, grab your snowshoes or hiking boots, embrace the chill, and embark on a winter adventure with these principles in mind. 

Final Thoughts 

Winter hiking is a battle against Jack Frost. However, with the right gear – layering like an onion, wearing the correct outerwear, wielding the right tools, and following proper trail etiquette – you can conquer those icy mountainsides with confidence and ease. So, suit up, and go forth into that frozen wasteland. Winter hiking is waiting, and it’s bound to be your next outdoor addiction.