Just because its cold and wet or even snowy outside doesn't mean you have to put your hiking on hold.
Winter hiking can be fun and invigorating.
However, there are some things you need to know.
Here are secrets to winter hiking that will help you have fun and keep you safe.
Winter hiking can bring a whole new meaning to the sport.
Trails you are familiar with when it is warmer take on a whole new look in the winter.
These same trails can be completely different with new challenges.
However you need to be smart when venturing out for a winter hike.
It is important to be prepared.
Failure to prepare adequately can even make the hike dangerous.
First thing to know is that in the winter the weather can change very dramatically very quickly.
You need to dress to stay warm and dry.
And what you wear should be layered.
This way as the weather changes or your level of activity increases or decreased you can either peel off clothing or add to it.
Start with a good pair of thermal under wear.
This is a good first layer because it will help you with sweating.
You want this underwear to be of a material that will wick (or draw the moisture from your skin).
Cotton does not wick well; it will retain the moisture and cause you to chill.
Find thermal underwear made of synthetic material or wool blends.
The next layer will help to insulate your body and keep in the body heat.
The most common type of materials for this are wool, down or fleece.
The outer layer you wear should not only insulate but also be water proof.
Make sure to stay away from water resistant products.
They generally are not as good at keeping water out as those labeled water proof.
Gortex is a good product that is designed to be water proof.
It is true that your body will lose warmth through your head.
Be sure to wear some sort of protection for the head that properly covers the head and ears.
Make sure this head protection is insulated and water proof.
At the opposite end, wear thick socks that also have wicking characteristics.
Common blends that work are: Smartwool and Thorlow.
Be sure your hiking boots are waterproof.
The night beforethe hike, bring your hiking boots inside so they are warm when you put them on.
Gloves are very important because cold hands can be very uncomfortable and distracting.
Many winter hikers will also layer with gloves, wearing a thin pair to insulate and then a second pair on the outside to provide further warmth and protection from moisture.
When you hike in the winter your body is going to work harder at staying warm and this will cause it to burn more calories.
For this reason you should eat more high calorie energy food than you would on warmer weather hikes.
Hydration should always be at the top of the list for hiking any time.
Don't be fooled that just because the sun is not beating down you will need less water.
Take plenty of water.
The thing you need to be concerned for is to keep your water from freezing.
You can purchase special designed hydration packs that are insulated and even the straws are insulated.
Some hikers start off with the water in their pack warm or hot, knowing that it will cool once they go outside.
If there will be snow along the trail be aware that the glare during a winter hike will be very intense.
You need to take extra care to protect your eyes from the harsh ultra violet rays of the sun so you do not get what is referred to as "snow blindness.
" Use sun glasses that have high sun protection factor ratings.
Also, be sure to protect any exposed skin on your face with high UV factor sun screen and the same for your lips.
Depending on the length of the hike and the severity of the weather it is always a good idea to pack along safety items..
..
just in case.
You should always have a trail map, a first aid kit, a compass, a pocket knife or multi-tool, lighter, hand warming packets, flash light, cell phone, dry pair of socks and gloves.
This may seem like a lot of precaution, but it is necessary for winter hiking.
The rewards will be worth it as you will see the trails take on a majestic new beauty and character.