Winter Hiking Tips: To get you back home.
Winter hiking where we live is some of the best in Canada but keep these tips below in mind when you’re ready to get rolling.
Waterproof everything, waterproof your boots, socks, your pack, your jacket and gloves. A lot of high-level hikers will double waterproof their boots because things tend to get a little soaked during winter and having cold wet feet is a receipt for disaster on long hikes. If in a snowy area, it will also help increase the chances of returning with less toes than you started out with – so if your feet get wet, having the right socks and footwear are key. I personally love and use the SALOMON Snowspike CSWP Running Shoes. On average I hike 80-100 km’s per week and have never had a problem with them.
Being winter, it’s cold and you may not feel that thirsty, but it is important to stay hydrated and we mean hydrated. Your body still needs to replace what you are losing even if you don’t realize it.
Headlamp, because in Alberta Canada it starts getting dark at 4:00 PM MST. If you are only going for a few hours, then you needn’t worry about a headlamp but if you are planning on finishing your hike at the end of the day then taking a headlamp is a must. The Black Diamond Storm 400 Headlamp is what I go with.
Waterproof shell lightweight and easily stowed in an outer pocket of your pack, having a rain jacket helps keep you dry and warm both as waterproofing and as protection against the icy cold wind shear.
As you further on your hike, cold winter winds can feel like they are slicing through you. I highly recommend the ZETA SL JACKET MEN’S
Superlight, packable, and waterproof GORE-TEX emergency shell for hiking. It’s superlight by Arc’Teryx.
Bring fuel. My go to is Jack Links Teriyaki Beef jerky is synonymous with adventure. From Vikings crossing the seas to camping trips in the mountains, beef jerky is a portable fuel that can help power any journey. Cut red apples, oranges, and dried fruit. Endurance Tap Energy Gel is another go too in those times of need.
Nothing like a winter hike and always remember It is never too late to be who you might have been.
Join us Saturday February 26.2022 for Everest in Edmonton-2 for a 44.5 km hike throughout the city of Edmonton Alberta Canada River Valley and all proceeds raised will go to Myeloma Canada. Register or donate today.
Connect with Everest In Edmonton below:
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