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Winter is a great time to go walking. Cold, clear days with a dusting of frost are my absolute favourites and it’s usually quieter out and about so you feel as if you have the whole world to yourself.
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From crunchy footsteps to spectacular views, there’s no better time to enjoy the great outdoors. While you don’t particularly need winter skills to walk when the weather is colder, there are some things you need to be aware of.
Here are some top tips to help you get outside, walk safely, and keep warm this winter.
What to wear on a winter walk
Trekking during the winter months can be a completely different experience from walking in summer. The first thing to think about is what clothing you’ll need for hiking in winter.
If you’re anything like me, you’ll experience a million different temperatures when you’re hiking. When I start an ascent I get super hot and then as soon as I stop for a sandwich or once I’ve reached a summit I quickly get really cold.
Wear thin layers to keep warm and pack a couple of extras in your bag that you can pop on if you start to get cold. Obviously it goes without saying but a hat and gloves are must-haves for hiking in the winter.
Thermal base layers are incredible for helping trap in the heat while walking in the snow and I love the ACAI thermal trousers to keep me cosy too. I usually go with base layer, long sleeve t-shirt, fleece, down jacket, waterproof coat to keep my upper body warm.
On the bottom half I wear thermal tights with thermal walking trousers over the top.
Extra gear you might need for winter walking
We’ve all seen the photos and videos of people climbing Snowdon in trainers. It’s important that you have the right gear for the conditions and the terrain when it comes to going on winter walks.
If you’re heading out in snow you might need crampons, walking poles and even an ice axe in addition to your usual kit.
Keep an eye on the time
Remember – there is a lot less day light in winter. While you don’t necessarily have to walk only during day light hours, it’s safer to make sure you keep an eye on the time, especially if you’re hill walking or mountain walking.
It’s usually easier to set off in the dark and get down from the hills whilst it’s still light. Plus you’ll get to see some epic sunrises!
When you’re tired and it starts to go dark, you can easily lose your bearings. And speaking of light…
Bring a torch
Just in case you do find yourself out and losing light, bring a torch with you when winter hiking to help with visibility. A head torch will ensure that your hands are kept free, in case you need to do any scrambling.
Don’t forget to bring spare batteries too!
Bring a map and compass
I usually use the Komoot app or Ordnance Survey app on my phone for route planning and this works really well. They also work offline so you don’t need a 5g signal.
However, you should always take a paper map and compass as a back up just in case. Your phone could run out of battery, you could drop it, or it could just break so it’s a good idea to have a back up.
Make sure you plan your route before you set off and share it with someone so that they know where you are and what time you should be back.
If you need some inspiration for routes, I’ve got a great list of Peak District walks.
Bring a warm drink
Having something warming can really give you a pick me up if you start to feel tired and cold. Bring a flask of tea, coffee, warm Ribena (one of my friend’s faves!), or even soup to help you stay warm.
Why not take mulled wine with you on your festive walks? Although stick to one – drinking at altitude is not recommended!
Plan for the wind
It’s usually more windy during winter and so, if the forecast has given winds, you should plan accordingly. Walks in the woods will be more sheltered on breezy days but if it’s blowing a gale, avoid trees as branches can break off, causing hazards.
If you can, try to plan your walk so that the wind is behind you as this will be less taxing. Wearing a buff can really help keep the wind off your face and neck.
Check the weather forecasts
The weather in winter can easily turn so that what starts out as a walk in glorious sunshine can turn dark and wet in a matter of minutes. Be sure to check the local forecast before you head out to avoid walking in adverse conditions.
Be flexible with your plans – it’s better to be safe than sorry – don’t push ahead regardless. If you need to, spend the day snuggled up on the sofa instead!
We’ve been having some awful storms recently so it’s best to stay inside when the weather turns extreme. There can be all sorts of risks including flooding and fallen debris.
Bring waterproofs
In the UK, this is one for all-seasons walking! We did Scafell Pike at the beginning of August and it didn’t stop raining the entire way up!
Pack a pair of waterproof trousers which can slip over your own trousers and a waterproof coat too. Not only will they help to keep you dry but the extra layer will also help with warmth.
You should also put your extra layers in dry bags within your backpack to keep them dry. Plastic carrier bags can work well for this too, if you don’t have dry bags.
Walk with friends
Not only is it safer to walk with company but it’s also lots of fun. Take your friends, partner, family – whoever!
If you don’t have anyone that you can walk with, why not try joining a local walking group? There are bound to be some in your area.
Some of my favourite groups include the Outdoor Adventure Girls on Facebook and the brand My Urban Trail whose founder, Laura, leads her own walks.
Be careful of your footing
It may be icy or snowy underfoot and so just take care and pay attention to your footing a little more than you probably would during summer. An ice axe and and crampons could be a welcome addition to your winter kit to help you with this.
Bring a first aid kit in your bag with you in case you slip or in case of any other accidents. Walking boots with a good grip are essential and you’ll need waterproof ones for walking in snow, streams, or puddles.
Now that you’ve read my advice for hiking in winter, you should be ready to set off on your adventures. Be safe, keep warm, and most importantly – have fun!
