Cold-Weather Hiking, Staying Warm, Dry, and Safe

I like to think of myself as a pretty prepared hiker. I check the weather, pack my gear, and plan my route. But sometimes, Mother Nature has other plans, and I end up learning the hard way. Like the time I trusted the TV weather report (rookie move in Colorado) and decided to leave my coat behind—only to freeze when the wind kicked up on the way back. Or that time I thought, “Oh, this will be a quick little hike, no need for extra food”, and then ended up hiking 12 miles and starving all the way back to the car. Let’s not even talk about the time I didn’t check trail conditions and arrived only to find the trail completely closed. Lesson learned. Again.

Winter hiking is unpredictable, but with the right preparation, you can avoid most of the suffering. Here’s how to stay warm, dry, and safe when heading into the cold.

Layer Like a Pro (Because Conditions Change)

Colorado (and most mountain regions) have one rule, if you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes. That also means if you don’t prepare for all seasons in one hike, you’ll probably regret it.

Base Layer: Moisture-wicking material to keep sweat off your skin. (cotton holds moisture so avoid it)

Mid Layer: Fleece or down for insulation.

Outer Layer: Waterproof, windproof shell, for when the weather decides to betray you.

Extras: Gloves, hat, and an extra pair of socks (if I’m wearing waterproof shoes my feet sweat and having an extra pair of hiking socks makes all the difference on the return.

Food & Water: Bring more than you think you’ll need.

You might think you’re going for a “quick hike,” but let’s be honest, Nature has a way of convincing us to go just a little farther. Next thing you know, you’re 10 miles in, starving, and dreaming about food. In the winter I burn more calories because of the cold, having extra snacks and fruit is always a good idea.

Pack extra snacks, calorie-dense foods like nuts, protein bars, and jerky.

Bring extra water, hydration keeps your body warm. (Yes, even when it’s cold!)

Insulated bottle or hydration tube cover, to keep water from freezing.

Check Trail Conditions, seriously, Just Do It:

You might assume the trail is fine, but winter hiking comes with surprises: closed trails, deep snow, or sheets of ice that turn your hike into an involuntary skating session.

Check reports on AllTrails or local websites(COTREX for those hiking in Colorado), before you head out.

Carry traction devices (microspikes or crampons).

If the trail is closed, don’t be that person who tries it anyway.

Gear Up: The Essentials for Cold-Weather Hiking

I keep a winter ready pouch in my backpack that includes:

Headlamp or flashlight,(because winter means shorter daylight—don’t get caught in the dark).

Hand warmers & toe warmers.

Emergency bivy or space blanket

Trekking poles, for stability on icy terrain.

Mini Inreach Garmin

Know When to Turn Around:

Winter hiking isn’t the time for ego. If the weather turns ugly, the trail disappears, or you’re underdressed and shivering, turn back! The  mountains will always be there for another day.

Check the forecast (several if in Colorado), and trust your gut.

If conditions feel sketchy, don’t risk it.

Live to hike another day.

Final Thoughts: Learn from your mistakes

Winter hiking is incredible, as long as you’re prepared. I’ve learned that it’s always better to bring the extra layers, pack the extra snacks, and check the trail reports.

Stay prepared, stay safe, and enjoy the adventure! Happy hiking!