Volume 249:10 Simple Tips for Winter Hiking
- Lenny Burch
- Mar 5
- 5 min read
Hiking in the winter can be fairly tricky and even life threatening. Sub-freezing temperatures, dampness, heavy snowfalls, snow covered crevasses and more make it all very risky if you're not paying attention. Let's take a quick look at some helpful tips to make your winter hiking experience more enjoyable and safer!
When all of the leaves have fallen, and the temperatures bottom out, it may be tempting to hole up and hibernate at home. Though nothing is quite so wonderful as cuddling up in front of a hot fire, there is a lot of beauty to experience in the outside world even during the winter.
Going on a winter hike is a completely unique experience unlike anything you’ll get during the summer. Here are some simple tips for making your winter hike an enjoyable experience:
Dress in Layers – This is a must for hiking in any season because temperatures change throughout the day. Start with a layer of long underwear for warmth topped with a light jacket and waterproof pants. If it’s really cold, you can wear a thicker, more insulated jacket on top.
Make the Safe Choice – Keep in mind that the same 12-mile trail you can knock out easily during the summer might be more of a challenge in winter. When planning your first winter hike, keep it short and simple in terms of distance and difficulty.
Check the Weather – You should do this any time of year, but it is particularly important to stay apprised of conditions during a winter hike. Check the temperature as well as predictions for precipitation, wind speed, and daylight hours. If you’re near the mountains, check an avalanche report as well.
Carry Safety Gear – You should always be prepared when hiking, but you’ll need some basic safety gear during the winter for sure. Pack a first aid kit, compass, and pocket knife as well as warming packets and a headlamp in case you get stuck after dark.
Bring Someone with Experience – Even if you’re a seasoned hiker, conditions can change quickly in the winter, so it always pays to bring a friend. Having someone experienced can also help you make smart (and safe) decisions about trails to choose and gear to pack.
Bring Plenty of Warm Liquids – It is important to stay hydrated during a hike and warm liquids like tea or hot cocoa are perfect for winter. Just make sure it’s nothing too heavy.
Invest in Quality Gear – During the summer you might be able to get away with hand-me-downs or secondhand gear but in the winter, you need to be able to rely on your gear. Think of high-quality gear as an investment you’ll benefit from all season.
Practice with Crampons – Crampons are metal spikes you can attach to your feet for better traction in snow. While you may feel like you get the hang of using them quickly, it only takes one misstep to lead to an injury. Practice wearing them and using them uphill and downhill before your hike.
Don’t Be Afraid to Turn Around – No matter what time of year it is, safety should always be your number-one concern. If the conditions are starting to turn or you feel yourself getting tired more quickly than usual, don’t be afraid to turn around.
Refuel at the End of the Day – After a winter hike, you’ll be ready for some hot food (and maybe a beer). Find a nearby restaurant to rest and relax.
A winter hike is a completely new way to experience the world and all the beauty it has to offer. Just remember that the winter brings some unique challenges and safety issues that you need to consider before you hit the trail. Follow these simple tips for a safe winter hike.
Written for ClubTread.com, published on November 6, 2018N.A.C. NEWS
(Sunday, February 1, 2026)
Good Morning,
We are now entering the month of February in the yearf of 2026. It's been a long journey to get here that has been full of adventures, complications, laughs, and at times, even tears, but it's always worth it. I have been operating this club since 2009 and even when it's stressful and I'm pulling my hair out, it's absolutely great! I have met so many incredible people, and helped them reach their goals. Many times, they aspire me to reach further and higher as well. So, to all those reading this that have pushed through hard times and rough trails with NAC, thank you, it has been an amazing pleasure to meet every one of you. To those of you that have yet to join in on one of our adventures, I truly hope to meet you soon and aid you in seeking out your adventure.
Visit our Events Page now and find your next Adventure.
Last Sunday NAC attended the 2nd annual Hamilton Adventure Expo. As it was in it's first year, it was equally as impressive in it's second year. We had the chance to connect with some of our current NAC Partners and we met so many new adventurers. All in all, it was a great show and a great day. Check out our photos from the Expo on Facebook and Instagram.
While at the expo, we were lucky enough to catch Adam Shoalts for a short chat and watched his mesmorizing talk afterwards. After the talk we purchased his newest book and we were able to get it autographed. If you don't know who Adam Shoalts is, I highly suggest you look him up. He is one of the most incredible Adventurers on the planet today, taking part in the world's toughest treks and portages in the most remote parts of Canada and he does it SOLO! Adam is also a award winning author, writing about his adventures. His novels are available in almost any book store and at most Outdoor Retailers.
Join NAC during the last week of May when we will revisit the Bruce Trail in Owen Sound for a multi-day trek. We will be travelling through one of the most majestic parts of the Bruce Trail. We will be scrambling in and out of crevasses in the Niagara Escarpment that are so well protected that the snow lasts until July! We will also spend time at Inglis Falls, one of Ontario's most beautiful waterfalls! We will be on trail for 3 days and spend 2 nights sleeping under the stars at fully serviced camping areas that include showers, running water, toilets, a shop and even a bar and restaurant.
That's all the news for now. As always, stay safe, and happy adventures!
Lenny Burch
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