The Ultimate Winter Hiking Packing List

Winter hiking can be a magical experience—snow-covered landscapes, peaceful trails, and crisp mountain air. But it’s essential to come prepared to stay warm, safe, and comfortable in the elements. Here's a comprehensive packing list as well as some links to help you gear up for your next cold-weather adventure.

WHAT TO WEAR:

The key to staying warm during a winter hike is layering. Each layer serves a specific purpose. You should be cool/cold at the start of your hike, you do not want to get sweaty on winter hikes.

1. Base Layer (Moisture-Wicking)

   • Lightweight or midweight thermal top and bottom (e.g., merino wool or synthetic materials, but NO COTTON)

   • my pick: Kari Traa wool baselayers

2. Mid Layer (Insulation)

   • Fleece jacket or down sweater

   • Insulated pants (if very cold)

   • my pick: REI Magma jacket for when it’s really cold! or a good fleece

3. Outer Layer (Weather Protection)

   • Waterproof and windproof jacket (e.g., GORE-TEX shell)

   • Waterproof pants

   • my pick: I do most of my winter hikes in these soft shell pants with baselayers under

4. Accessories

   • Insulated mittens or gloves (with an extra dry pair in your pack)

   • Warm hat or beanie

   • Balaclava or neck gaiter

   • Thermal socks (bring an extra pair)

   • Gaiters (to keep snow out of your boots)

5. Footwear

   • Insulated, waterproof hiking boots

   • Traction devices like microspikes or crampons ( I wear microspikes on almost all my winter hikes, they make a huge difference!)

WHAT TO PACK: Gear and Equipment

1. Backpack

   • liter capacity depends on the hike length

   • Waterproof cover or line the inside with a garbage bag

2. Navigation

   • Map and compass (know how to use them)

   • GPS device or smartphone with offline maps

3. Hydration

   • Insulated water bottles or a hydration bladder with an insulated tube

   • Hot beverage in a thermos for extra warmth

4. Food

   • High-calorie snacks like trail mix, energy bars, and chocolate that can be eaten with gloves on

   • Easy-to-eat meals that don’t freeze easily (e.g., sandwiches, dried fruit)

5. Safety and Emergency Items

   • Headlamp with extra batteries

   • Emergency blanket

   • First aid kit

   • Firestarter kit (matches, lighter, or flint)

   • Emergency Bivy

   • Multi-tool or knife

   • Whistle

   • Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or satellite communicator (optional but recommended)

6. Additional Gear

   • Trekking poles with snow baskets

   • Sit pad or foam mat (to insulate when sitting)

   • Identification (I keep my expired ID in my pack) and any necessary permits

   • Extra wool socks, gloves & insulation layer (in a plastic bag to ensure they stay dry)

   • Plastic bags to line boots incase they get wet

   • Sunprotection and lip balm (yes, even in winter!)

   • Sunglasses or snow goggles

   • Handwarmers

   • Portable charger since electronics die quickly in the cold

   • Thermal phone case (not essential but I like to take to keep my phone from dying in the cold)

Tips for Packing

1. Layer Wisely: Pack clothing that allows you to adjust as conditions change. Avoid cotton, as it holds moisture and can make you cold. You should be cold at the start of your hike, you will warm up quickly once you start hiking but you do not want to overdress and get sweaty.

2. Line Your Pack: Line your pack with a garbage bag to keep all your gear dry.

3. Stay Hydrated: Even in cold weather, dehydration is a risk. Drinking warm liquids can help.

4. Monitor Weather Conditions: Always check the forecast before heading out and be prepared for sudden changes. Always check the avalanche forecast and avoid risk areas.

5. Leave No Trace: Pack out EVERYTHING you bring in.

With the right preparation, winter hikes can be both safe and deeply rewarding. Keep this packing list handy, and you’ll be ready to enjoy the serenity and beauty of the snowy trails. Happy hiking!