Thru-hiking in the cold is a challenge that tests your endurance, resilience, and preparation. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but for those who are ready, the rewards are immense. The crisp air, the pristine snow-covered trails, and the stillness of winter landscapes offer a beauty that can only be experienced in the colder months. However, to truly enjoy this adventure, preparation is everything. Whether you’re tackling a rugged winter trail or navigating freezing temperatures, being properly equipped and knowing what to expect will make all the difference between an epic journey and a dangerous one.
In this guide, we’ll delve into everything you need to know to tackle cold-weather thru-hiking with confidence. From the essential gear that will keep you warm and dry, to the strategies that will help you navigate tricky conditions, we’ll cover it all. We’ll share tips on how to manage frostbite and hypothermia risks, how to pack efficiently for the cold, and how to maintain energy and hydration in freezing temperatures.
Cold-weather hiking isn’t just about surviving—it’s about thriving in the winter wilderness. With the right knowledge and preparation, you’ll be able to embrace the adventure, face the challenges head-on, and experience the unparalleled thrill of hiking in the harshest of conditions. So, let’s get ready to step out into the cold, knowing you’re equipped to conquer whatever nature throws your way!
Choose Your Route Wisely
1. Research Trails: Make sure to choose a trail that's suitable for winter hiking. Some trails may be closed to weather or avalanche risks, so plan ahead.
2. Check Weather Forecasts: Winter conditions can change rapidly, so it's important to monitor weather forecasts closely and adjust your plans accordingly.
3. Consider Daylight Hours: Shorter days mean less daylight for hiking, so plan to reach your campsite and be prepared to pitch up in the dark.
Layer Your Clothing
1. Base Layer: Start with moisture-wicking base layers that help regulate your body temperature. Avoid cotton, as it retains moisture and will make you cold.
2. Mid Layer: Insulate with materials like fleece or down for warmth. Be sure the layer is breathable, so you don’t overheat.
3. Outer Layer: A waterproof, windproof jacket and pants are essential for protecting against snow, wind, and rain.
Protect Your Extremities
1. Gloves: Wear warm, insulated gloves. Consider using glove liners for added warmth, and always carry a backup pair in case one gets wet.
2. Hat: A warm, moisture-wicking hat will help keep you warm. A beanie or balaclava is ideal for protecting your head and ears.
3. Footwear: Insulated, waterproof boots are a must to keep your feet warm and dry. Pair them with moisture-wicking socks, and always carry an extra pair of dry socks.
Sleep Warm
1. Sleeping Bag/Quilt: Choose a sleeping bag or quilt that’s rated for temperatures lower than you expect to encounter.
2. Sleeping Pad: An insulated sleeping pad is crucial for preventing heat loss to the cold ground. Make sure it’s thick and durable enough for winter conditions.
3. Shelter: Opt for a four-season tent or a sturdy, winter-specific shelter. Look for one that offers protection from high winds and heavy snow. Depending on the weather, trekking pole tents are a great option to minimise weight.
Stay Energised and Hydrated
1. High-Calorie Snacks: Cold weather burns more calories, so pack nutrient-dense, high-energy foods like nuts, energy bars, and dried fruit.
2. Hydration: Hydration is key. Even in colder temperatures the body still requires plenty of fluids.
3. Warm Drinks: Bring a stove to prepare hot drinks, which will help warm you up during breaks.
Manage Snow and Ice
1. Traction Devices: In icy conditions, crampons or microspikes provide additional traction to prevent slipping. For deep snow, snowshoes will help you stay on top of the snow rather than sinking in.
2. Navigational Tools: Winter can obscure trail markers, so bring a reliable map and compass, or use a GPS device. Make sure to track your progress and keep an eye out for any trail markers that may be buried or difficult to spot. Downloading a dedicated hiking app to your phone is handy but always have a back up paper map.
Setting Up Camp
1. Shelter from the Wind: Look for natural windbreaks such as trees, cliffs, or large rocks. Avoid setting up camp in exposed areas where the wind can easily whip through and increase the chill factor.
2. Look for Flat Ground: It’s important to have a flat, level surface to set up your tent. Steep or uneven terrain can lead to discomfort while sleeping and could cause your tent to collapse under heavy snow.
3. Choose a Spot for Cooking: Make sure to set up your cooking area a little distance away from your tent, as cooking inside the tent can cause condensation and a fire hazard. Dig a small area in the snow for your stove, ensuring it’s stable and won’t tip over in the wind. If that isn’t an option make sure you fully vent your tent before cooking in the vestibule.
Be Prepared For Emergencies
1. Hypothermia: This occurs when your body temperature drops below normal, and it can be life-threatening if not addressed quickly. Symptoms include shivering, confusion, slurred speech, loss of coordination, and extreme tiredness. If you notice these signs, it’s crucial to warm up immediately by moving to shelter, putting on dry clothes, and consuming warm food and drinks.
2. Frostbite: This is the freezing of body tissue, most commonly on the extremities like fingers, toes, nose, and ears. Signs include numbness, tingling, and pale or waxy skin. If frostbite is suspected, gently rewarm the affected area with warm (not hot) water or body heat, and get off the trail and seek medical attention as soon as possible.
3. Winter-Specific Supplies: Ensure your first aid kit includes items that are useful for cold weather, such as blister treatments and lip balm.
4. Pain Relief: Cold weather can exacerbate aches and pains. Bring appropriate pain relief to manage any discomfort during your hike or after a long day in the cold.
Leave No Trace
1. When hiking in areas of soft snow or sensitive terrain, try to stick to existing tracks, or use snowshoes to disperse your weight and avoid leaving deep tracks that can take a long time to heal.
2. Carry a waste bag or trowel to dig a "cathole" for human waste in summer conditions, but in winter, the frozen ground may make this difficult. In these conditions, always pack out human waste using a biodegradable bag
3. Winter is a vulnerable time for animals, as they conserve energy and resources to survive. Do not approach or disturb animals you may encounter.
4. While campfires can be tempting, they can leave a lasting impact on the environment. Use a stove for cooking and heating instead
5. Snow can obscure trails, making it tempting to blaze new paths. Always stick to marked and established trails whenever possible to avoid trampling fragile ecosystems or disturbing wildlife.
For more information on the Leave No Trace Principles click here.
Stay Safe and Know When to Turn Back
1. Monitor Weather Conditions: Winter weather can change rapidly, so always check weather reports before setting out each day. If conditions turn dangerous, such as high winds, heavy snow, or an approaching storm, be prepared to turn back to safety.
2. Know Your Limits: Winter hiking is physically demanding, and it’s essential to listen to your body. If you’re feeling tired, too cold, or unsafe, don’t hesitate to stop, rest, or head back to a safer location. 
1. Prepare a warm meal before bedtime, as it’ll help raise your body temperature and keep you warm as you rest. Make sure to drink something hot, like tea or soup, to further warm up before hitting the sack.
2. When water bottles freeze, the water at the top tends to freeze first, making it difficult to drink. By storing your bottle upside down, the cap (the last part to freeze) is at the bottom. This allows the water in the bottle to freeze from the top down, leaving the drinking portion still liquid longer, especially in colder temperatures.
3. Layer your clothing to trap heat. Start with moisture-wicking base layers, add insulating layers, and finish with a waterproof, windproof outer layer. Don’t forget to keep your head, hands, and feet covered, as they are key areas for heat loss.
4. When it’s cold outside, it might seem like wearing lots of layers inside your sleeping bag is the best way to stay warm. However, wearing too many layers can actually hinder your body’s ability to regulate temperature and can lead to sweating, which makes you colder in the long run. Avoid wearing too many layers in your sleeping bag and only rely on the sleeping bag or quilts temperature rating.
5. The most effective way to melt snow is by using a camping stove and a pot. It's important to not just throw a pile of snow into the pot, as it could damage the stove or burn the pot. Instead, add a small amount of snow at a time, and gradually add more as it melts. This prevents the snow from cooling down your cooking equipment too much.
