| ovice and avid summer hikers alike, the winter | | | | backpack or waistpack with these essentials: |
| hiking season does not need to be feared or | | | | - Water: You simply cannot survive without it. |
| avoided. It should however be respected. The | | | | - A few energy rich snacks. Trail mix, protein |
| precautions a hiker should take when hiking in | | | | bars, nuts and dried berries work well. |
| winter conditions are similar to those they should | | | | - A flashlight, headlamp, or lantern. A light will help |
| in the summer, with only some minor variations | | | | you signal for help, find your way to a path or |
| to account for the weather and potential changes | | | | stream and just add some needed moral should |
| in weather. | | | | you be stuck over night. |
| Below are the five keys to being a safe winter | | | | - Small first-aid kit with an emergency blanket and |
| hiker. | | | | whistle |
| Be Conscious of the Weather | | | | - Map and compass (see below) |
| If you are planning a hike, check the local weather | | | | - Cell Phone: Not all areas will be accessible by cell |
| forecast for your destination area throughout the | | | | phone so do not rely on this solely but do carry it |
| week prior in order to better understand the | | | | in case of emergencies |
| current weather patterns and temperatures. Make | | | | - Knife, pocket knife, or multi-tool. A knife, coupled |
| very sure to check the forecast on the day of | | | | with the many functions of a mutli-tool is |
| your hike and take note of the expected | | | | invaluable for cutting branches for a fire and |
| weather and temperatures for the day of the | | | | protecting yourself |
| hike as well as a day or two past. Also, it is best | | | | Have A Plan |
| to understand how those weather conditions | | | | Never go hiking without a clear plan for where |
| change or are modified as your elevation changes | | | | you plan to go and when you plan to return. |
| in the area. Never plan a hike when the conditions | | | | Include in your plan where you need to be by a |
| are expected to be harsh and innavigable. | | | | certain time in order to make it back or to your |
| Even the best laid plans can be thwarted by the | | | | intended destination before nightfall. You should |
| weather. It is best to be prepared for the worst | | | | always tell someone your planned route and the |
| weather should it unexpectedly sneak up on you. | | | | estimated times of departure and return. Use |
| The following tips will ensure you are prepared | | | | your map of the area and compass throughout |
| should such arise. | | | | the day to make sure you are following your |
| Layers. Layers. Layers | | | | intended route, especially if the weather begins to |
| When you’re hiking, increased blood | | | | worsen. |
| circulation will keep your body warm but when | | | | Have a Friend |
| you stop, the temperature will quickly catch up | | | | It is never advisable to winter hike alone. Not only |
| with your body. It is therefore important to wear | | | | is hiking with others far more fun, it is also much |
| multiple layers of clothes so that you can add and | | | | safer. By hiking with another, you can share the |
| remove clothes without putting yourself at risk of | | | | responsibilities of carrying supplies and monitoring |
| hypothermia or overheating. Choose hiking clothes | | | | your hiking route. Should you fall or become ill, |
| that made of breathable fabrics and that do not | | | | you will have someone with you who can call or |
| absorb water or moisture. Cotton is a particularly | | | | get help. |
| bad material for winter hiking clothes because it | | | | Don’t let the winter keep you caged in. If |
| absorbs sweat, rapidly cooling the body and | | | | you love to hike or explore nature, consider |
| keeping it that way. | | | | planning a winter hike with your friends. By |
| Essential Gear | | | | following these five steps, you will be well on your |
| There are a few equipment items you should | | | | way to a safe and fun outdoor adventure. |
| never hike without. Stock a comfortable | | | | |