Winter hiking: Experience in ice & snow

Hiking in winter – You can’t go hiking when it’s snowing?
What nonsense!
Winter hiking is a popular pastime when winter camping.
Snow and ice can make your hiking trail a little more difficult, but many hiking trails are also cleared or leveled in winter.
This means you can go hiking even when the mountains are covered in snow.
Here are three different ways to get through the snow to make sure it works well.
Plus tips on the packing list and how to protect yourself properly.
So: let’s get out of the roof tent! By the way, you can get back to hiking in all weathers here: Learn to hike.

Winter magic: these are the benefits of hiking in the snow!

Hiking in the snow offers a unique experience that cannot be experienced anywhere else.
The landscape is completely covered in snow, providing a breathtaking and surreal backdrop.
This allows you to experience nature in a whole new way.
It is often quieter and more peaceful than in other seasons.
This requires planning and preparation, and it can be a challenge.
Hiking in the snow requires a certain amount of physical activity and can therefore be a great way to get moving and stay fit.

Option 1: Normal hiking boots

First of all, you can put on normal hiking boots.
Please note, however, that normal hiking boots are only worthwhile if there is a small amount of snow.
These can be lined or you can put on extra warm socks underneath so that you can still get a little warmth.
Caution: You shouldn’t sweat too much in your boots.
Then your feet will cool down in no time at all during the next break.
In the cold, it makes sense to wear layers of clothing according to the onion principle.
Again, start with a thin shirt and then put on thicker clothing over it.
Finish with a thick winter jacket and snow pants.
You should think about a change of shirt for the bottom layer.
You can then change this during a break.
When you continue your hike, you will cool down less through your own sweat.
Here again at a glance:

• For less snow: normal hiking boots
• Clothing: Onion principle!!! (jacket last)
• Change of shirt for breaks (less cooling)

Even with man’s best friend – a hike is worthwhile when there is less snow:

Option 2: Crampons & trekking poles

For more snowy regions, it may be worth considering crampons and trekking poles.
These ensure a firmer footing in the snow and less risk of slipping.
This makes particular sense in mountain regions.
But beware: when planning your trip in the mountains, you should check the potential avalanche risk in the region.
Sliding snow can quickly become dangerous.
You should bear this in mind and pack before you set off:

• Crampons & trekking poles (more safety)
• Check beforehand: Avalanche situation in the region

A picturesque winter wonderland – you can experience this while hiking in the snow:

Option 3: Snowshoes

If it has snowed a lot, snowshoes can help.
This works so well because they distribute your weight over a larger area and so you sink less into the snow.
If you sink less deeply into the snow, you have to push less snow aside with your legs and therefore hiking with snowshoes is often less strenuous.
However, you should only take your snowshoes out once the snow cover has reached a certain thickness.
From about 40 centimetres of snow cover, they offer you a real advantage.
These are the advantages of snowshoes:

• If there is a lot of snow (approx. 40 cm)
• Distribute weight over area
• Carry you above the snow

This video takes a closer look at the use of snowshoes.
It explains different types of snowshoes and how to use them in combination with crampons.
There are also tips on orientation, as visibility and recognition features are often limited due to the uniform white snow cover.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qYsx7ilEP_E

Attention: Safety first!

The days are also generally shorter in winter.
This means it gets dark quicker and the darkness makes uneven terrain more difficult.
To prevent dangerous situations, it therefore makes sense to check the times of day in advance and set up camp before nightfall.
The opening hours of many campsites and other accommodation options also change during the winter season.
It therefore makes sense to plan your time precisely so that you can warm up at the campsite without stress.
In winter:

• Warning: sinking, slippery & heavy snowfall
• Days shorter: dark faster (see less)
• Check opening hours (change of season)

Hiking: even in summer!

Of course, you can hike in more than just ice and snow.
This varied leisure sport is also fun in any weather.
That’s why we’ve put together a few general tips on preparation, equipment and how to get back to the starting point safely.
Off you go on your hiking adventure!

• Learn to hike