H I K ING W IT H LEE H I L L E R
Preparation Key to Winter Hiking
W
inter shouldn’t keep you from hiking your favorite trails. Taking simple precautions will ensure a safe and rejuvenating journey. Before your hike, consult an hourly weather bulletin, prepare an itinerary of your route and leave it with someone in case of emergency, assemble a pack with food plus safety gear and dress in multiple layers of clothing. Prepare for the worst possible scenario so you will be comfortable should it occur. Remember if you need assistance in a storm it could take rescuers more time than expected to reach your location.
Hydrate Even on the coldest day your body will perspire and require liquid. Water, fruit and herbal teas are excellent choices for winter hikes. A lightweight thermos can easily fit into your water bottle sling or pack.
Christmas Day ice and snow on Dead Chief Trail, Hot Springs National Park. Photo by Lee Hiller, LeeHiller.com
Check the trail Before you begin a hike in the snow, check accumulation reports and contact park or forest service office for trail conditions. Ice, snow and rain storms can make trails impassible for many weeks due to fallen trees and landslides. Being caught in a blizzard or ice storm can be disorientating and can quickly erase all signs of the trail. Winter weather can change rapidly so consider including a small weather radio in your backpack. Sun protection Often overlooked winter hiking gear includes
sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm. Lower in the sky, the winter sun creates the sunrise glare effect throughout the day. Add a dusting of snow and you will be thankful for sunglasses or tinted goggles. Sunscreen and lip balm protect against both sun and wind burn. Dress in layers Wear synthetic and/or wool garments to wick away perspiration from your skin. Avoid cotton as it absorbs and will create a moist layer that could lead to hypothermia. On the coldest days bring two pair of gloves, spare socks, a neck scarf plus a hat to ensure hands, feet and head are always dry for maximum hiking comfort.
Food = energy Bring plenty of food on cold weather hikes. Nutrition is important to create the energy needed to stay warm. A classic trail mix of nuts and seeds combined with dried fruit is a great choice. For a quick energy boost add some non-dairy dark chocolate chips. Be prepared Other winter pack necessities include: • An emergency foil blanket will keep you warm and is an effective way to signal for help. • plastic rain poncho for unexpected rain or snow • boot chains will fit into a jacket pocket and provide additional traction if snow turns to ice • flashlight • small first aid kit • a whistle on a string around your neck in case you are injured and or need assistance. Winter is a wonderful time for hiking and with the proper preparation can be a safe and enjoyable experience.
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february, 2013
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