Staying Warm While Hiking in Winter
While I wish winter were coming to a quick end, I know we still have several more weeks of it. Even if it may feel more like spring in the city, on the mountains, it’s very much still winter.
For those new to winter hiking, staying warm is not just about comfort—it’s about safety. Let’s go over some key strategies to help you stay warm while out on the trails.
Understanding Cold Weather Challenges
I have spent many years trying to figure out how to stay warm, as I have Raynaud’s disease—a condition where the capillaries in my hands and feet close, restricting blood flow to my extremities. This can cause my fingers and toes to change color, ache dully, and often experience sharp pain when blood returns. Since this feeling is very unpleasant and can be dangerous, increasing the risk of frostbite, I do my best to make sure I stay warm when it’s cold outside!
Gloves vs. Mittens
I cannot stress this enough, invest in a good pair of warm, waterproof mittens. I recently, and somewhat reluctantly, switched from gloves to mittens, and it has been a game-changer! I initially worried about losing dexterity, but I actually find myself removing my mittens less often than I did with gloves.
Mittens keep your fingers together, allowing them to share warmth. As a bonus, if you use a hand warmer inside your mitten, it distributes heat to all your fingers rather than just the palm of your hand. For added protection if you’re going to be in extremely cold weather, consider a layering system: a thin liner glove underneath your mittens can help with dexterity while keeping your hands warm when you need to briefly remove the mittens.
Layer Up & Check the Weather
Packing extra layers might seem like common sense, but experienced hikers frequently encounter people on the trails who are underdressed or wearing the wrong types of clothing. Wearing the right layers can make the difference between an enjoyable hike and a dangerous situation if you get stuck.
I follow a layering system that works well for me in cold conditions:
Upper body: I start with a sweat-wicking sports bra and workout top, followed by a base layer (typically Smartwool or Arc,teryx), then a down jacket for insulation, and finally a waterproof shell to keep me dry and safe from the wind.
Lower body: My legs don’t get as cold, so sometimes thermal leggings are enough, especially if I’m wearing gaiters. On colder days, I layer with a pair of snow pants or windproof pants. For my feet, I’m always reaching for a pair of Darn Tough crew socks!
The key to dressing properly each time is checking the forecast for your specific hiking location – not just the nearest city. For example, if I’m hiking on Mount Seymour, I don’t look up Vancouver’s weather; instead, I check the forecast for Mount Seymour Provincial Park. Conditions can be drastically different in the mountains.
Use reliable sources such as official park websites, hiking apps, or weather apps rather than relying solely on Facebook groups for trail conditions and weather reports.
Keep Moving & Take Breaks Wisely
When hiking in cold weather, your body generates heat as you move. Try to maintain a steady pace to keep your core warm, but avoid sweating too much, as wet clothing can make you colder. If you need to stop for a break, put on an extra layer immediately to trap your body heat before you start cooling down.
Bonus Tips
One of my favorite things to do while hiking in winter is to enjoy a hot drink. Whether I pack a thermos or bring a small stove to make something fresh, sipping a warm drink while taking in a snowy mountain view is an experience like no other.
Since my feet can become cold quickly, I opt to layer my winter hiking boots with a wool liner. This provides extra insulation from the cold ground. Wool liners are relatively inexpensive, and the added protection is much appreciated. Just be sure to test them with your boots beforehand to ensure they don’t make your boots too tight, as restricted circulation can actually make your feet colder.
Final Thoughts
Staying warm while winter hiking is all about preparation. Choose the right gear, check the weather, dress in layers, and bring a hot drink to enhance your experience. With these tips in mind, you’ll be better equipped to enjoy the beauty of winter hiking safely and comfortably.
