Safety Tips for Winter Outdoor Recreation
In our opinion, winter is an incredible time to be outdoors. We often have the trails to ourselves, and the quiet, snow-blanketed landscapes offer a sense of tranquility and unique beauty that isn’t displayed by other seasons. However, adventuring in snow and low temperatures presents an extra level of hazard. Mishaps in cold weather can quickly lead to life-threatening conditions like hypothermia and frost bite. Thus, a bit more preparedness is necessary to enjoy winter activities, whether it’s hiking, snowshoeing, or skiing. Here are ten general tips to keep you safe during your next winter outing.
1. Practice Avalanche Awareness
When adventuring in the snow, it’s incredibly important to be able to recognize and avoid avalanche terrain and conditions. If you intend to recreate near avalanche terrain, it’s highly recommended that you complete an avalanche safety course beforehand. The need for avalanche safety courses is often only associated with high risk activities like backcountry skiing and snowmobiling, but even hiking and snowshoeing can put you in the path of an avalanche. It’s best to avoid solo travel in avalanche-prone areas. Make sure that everyone in your group carries and knows how to use a beacon, shovel, and probe. Additionally, always check local avalanche forecasts and condition reports before heading out. One (of many) resources for finding avalanche safety courses and local condition reports is avalanche.org.
2. Use the Right Gear and Pack Appropriately
Winter recreation requires additional gear to what is needed during milder seasons. I’m not going to exhaustively list the gear required for each, specific winter activity, but gear needed for general winter hiking/recreation might include:
Microspikes, Snowshoes, and/or Crampons: Microspikes, snowshoes, and crampons are all traction devices that attach to footwear but each is designed for different terrain. Microspikes provide traction on icy, slippery trails or shallow, hard-packed snow (less than about four inches) and are ideal for flat to gently sloped, non-technical terrain. Snowshoes are designed for travel over deeper, powdery, or softer snow, but they’re not ideal for icy slopes. Crampons are used for climbing steep, icy slopes in technical terrain, but, like Microspikes, are not effective in soft, deep snow. Note that many crampons only attach to mountaineering specific boots.
Waterproof Hiking Boots or Snow Boots: It’s always important to keep your feet dry, but this is especially true in cold temperatures. Having appropriate footwear is key. Depending on the activity, the necessary footwear could be a pair of hiking boots, snow/winter boots, or full-on mountaineering boots - just beware that not all of these boot types are inherently waterproof. Additionally, many snow boots and mountaineering boots are insulated which may or may not be ideal for your winter outing. If you are recreating in milder temperatures or participating in high-exertion activities that would result in sweaty feet, consider whether non-insulated footwear is best, like a simple, waterproof hiking boot. Mountaineering boots are typically stiffer, taller, and are compatible with crampons, making them best for harsh, technical terrain.
Boot Gaiters: Gaiters keep snow out of your boots and thus, help keep your feet dry and warm.
Ski/Snow Pants or Bibs: These options should be waterproof and come as shells (non-insulated) or insulated. Consider which is best for your specific activity. Non-insulted is often preferred for higher exertion recreation because you can add or remove layers underneath the shell as necessary, and and avoid getting too hot and sweaty - for instance, during the strenuous, uphill jaunts of backcountry skiing. Insulted options are often best for low temperatures and/or less active pursuits, like downhill, resort skiing.
Extra Layers: For an average winter hike I pack a warm coat, such as a down puffy jacket, a waterproof shell like a rain or ski jacket, a wool beanie, and gloves. This is in addition to the clothes I'm already wearing, which usually includes a set of base layers (wool or another wicking, warm-when-wet material), wool socks, and waterproof pants. For longer treks into the backcountry, overnights, or colder temperatures, I sometimes carry an extra pair of wool socks in case the ones I'm wearing get wet and need to be swapped, as well as an extra set of base layers in case I get cold and need to double up. I also sometimes pack an extra mid-layer, such as a fleece jacket. I sometimes bring something to cover my face, like a neck gaiter or balaclava, especially when skiing, to protect my face from the wind. For more active adventures, like hiking, snowshoeing, or ski touring, it's better to have the option of layering and delayering rather than wearing a single, heavily insulated piece of clothing. This is further discussed in point #8 below. Bear in mind that clothing needs will vary depending on the activity. For example, for less physically demanding activities, like fishing, I might opt for heavier layers like insulted pants and a parka.
Beacon, Shovel, and Probe: If recreating in or near potential avalanche terrain, it's essential not only to carry these items, but also to know how to use them. An avalanche beacon, also called an avalanche transceiver, is worn by adventurers and emits a radio signal which helps locate buried individuals after an avalanche. A probe is a long, collapsible pole which is poked into the snow to pinpoint the exact location of a buried person, and a shovel is used to dig through the snow to rescue victims. All three tools are essential for avalanche rescue.
Emergency Bivy: An emergency bivy (aka bivvy or bivouac shelter) is a lightweight, compact shelter designed to provide warmth and protection in case of unexpected circumstances, such as getting lost, injured, or caught in a storm. Unlike a traditional sleeping bag, a bivy is small enough to fit in your pack without taking up much space, but it can be a lifesaver when you need to spend an unplanned night outdoors. Most emergency bivies are made of waterproof, windproof materials that help trap body heat, preventing hypothermia in emergency situations. While it’s not a substitute for proper shelter and gear, having an emergency bivy on hand gives you peace of mind, knowing you’ll have some protection if things go wrong. If you're backpacking or already prepared for an overnight trip with a tent and sleeping bag, however, you can skip the emergency bivy since you'll already have adequate shelter.
Sun Protection: Sun protection is just as important in winter as it is in summer. This is especially true for snowy treks because snow reflects UV rays. A sun/ball cap (which can be worn under a beanie) can help shade your face, and sunglasses are always necessary to protect your eyes from sun and glare. Sunscreen is needed for exposed skin, even in cold weather. For more extreme adventures, like mountaineering or glacier travel, glacier goggles with a high UV protection rating might be needed to prevent snow blindness. A balaclava with a built-in UPF rating can also offer additional protection for your face and neck.
For Dogs: If you’re bringing a canine companion, don’t forget that they need protection from winter conditions, too. A doggy jacket or coat can help keep your dog warm and dry. The necessary weight/insulation of the jacket is dependent on weather conditions, exertion level associated with the undertaken activity, and the thickness of your dog’s coat. Doggy boots or musher’s wax can protect their paws from ice, snow, and salt.
Ten Essentials: As always, for anything more than short, familiar, frontcountry jaunts, we recommend carrying the remainder of your ten essentials. Note that some are already mentioned above. The ten essentials are water, food, shelter or emergency shelter, extra layers, navigation, illumination, first aid, fire, a multi-tool and/or repair kit, and sun protection.
Again, this isn’t an all-inclusive list of gear you might need for a given winter activity, nor will you need all of this gear in every circumstance. Each outdoor pursuit has its own specific gear requirements. For example, if you're planning on winter backpacking, you’ll likely need a 4-season tent and a cold-weather sleeping bag, in which case the emergency bivy could be left behind. Similarly, if you’re ski touring, you'll need a complete ski setup but might not require other traction devices, since you’ll be traveling on skis. Ultimately, it’s your responsibility to research and prepare for your specific, winter activity.
3. Navigate Accordingly
Be aware that snow can cover trails and trail markers and make navigation more challenging. Additionally, avoidance of hazards caused by snow (like avalanche terrain) might temporarily push you off route. Also remember that actively falling snow might cover your footprints and prevent you from following them later. Research where you’re going beforehand. Have a navigation plan and navigation tools commensurate with the level of difficulty of the route/trail, whether it’s a map and compass, gps, or phone (with the map downloaded for offline use). When relying on an electronic device for navigation, such as a phone, remember that cold temperatures can drain batteries, so consider carrying an extra charging method, such as a power bank.
4. Check the Forecast
Know what weather conditions to expect before you head out. Avoid storms and extremely low temperatures. For me, temperatures lower than 20°F are typically too cold, but everyone has different tolerance levels and risk thresholds, so it's important to know your own limits. This will also be influenced by factors like how long you will be outside, how active or sedentary you will be, and the gear you’re using. I prefer to get my forecasts from NOAA, as I find it to be most accurate.
5. Beware of Other Terrain Hazards
In addition to avalanches, there are other dangers associated with winter terrain:
Snow Bridges: Snow bridges are untrustworthy arcs of snow that form over creeks, crevasses, or cracks between rocks. They can be unstable and collapse when traversed, resulting in falls, entrapment, or even drowning. Worse is that they aren’t always apparent from above. Note that snow bridges can become increasingly dangerous during spring/early summer melt. See this awesomely informative article about snow bridges from the Mountaineers.
Tree Wells: Low tree branches, especially on evergreen trees, can prevent deep snow from consolidating close to the tree’s trunk. This can creating a “well,” or hole, around the base of the tree that can trap and/or suffocate someone who falls into it.
Thin Ice: Generally, ice should be at least four inches thick before it’s considered safe for walking. It needs to be even thicker to support heavier machinery, like UTV’s, snowmobiles, and trucks. Avoid traversing frozen bodies of water unless you’re certain the ice is thick enough to support your weight.
Cornices: Cornices are snow formations that overhang ridges and mountain crests. They can break unexpectedly, causing serious falls or avalanches. Be cautious near snowy ridgelines and avoid corniced areas. If you hear cracking sounds, move away immediately.
6. Remain Accountable
Always tell a reliable someone where you’re going and when you will be back. Of course, this applies irrespective of the season! However, considering the extra hazards of wintertime, it’s especially important.
7. Stay Hydrated
Personally, I find it more difficult to remember to hydrate when it’s cold out. However, it’s just as important to drink plenty of water during the winter. Hydration is actually essential to the body’s ability to regulate its temperature. Pro tip: Bring a Thermos of something warm, like your favorite tea (decaffeinated to still be hydrating!), broth, or even just warm water. This might help encourage you to drink in the cold.
8. Don’t Over Dress for Strenuous Activities and Consider “Starting Cold”
Of course you want to pack plenty of warm layers - it’s good practice to carry more warmth than you think you’ll need, especially when venturing into the backcountry during the winter - but you might not want to wear all of those layers from the get-go. It seems counterintuitive that you could dress too warm for a cold, winter hike. However, there’s a reason the saying “be bold, start cold” exists within the outdoor community. Avoid starting your hike (or other, high exertion activity) over-layered so that you don’t sweat profusely into your layers. This could cause you to get too cold at the point you slow down, like a during a summit sit, or during the downhill portion of your hike. With this being said, know that “be bold, start cold” might not be great advice for static/low effort activities or extremely cold temperatures.
9. Avoid Cotton Clothing
If you’re truly trying to stay warm, consider avoiding cotton clothing. Cotton absorbs and retains moisture. When cotton gets wet, it loses its insulating properties. Instead, opt for moisture-wicking, warm-when-wet fabrics such as merino wool or synthetic materials such as polyester. These will help keep you warm and dry.
10. Drive Safely
Driving to your winter recreation destination could be the most dangerous part of the journey, especially if roads aren’t clear.
Check road conditions, any applicable mountain pass reports, and the weather forecast before heading out. If road conditions could be poor, opt to stay home and reschedule your trip.
Carry snow tire chains and know how and when to install them.
Pack an emergency car kit that would allow you to spend extended time in your car in the cold and/or self rescue if you got stuck in snow. This might include: extra water, extra food, road flares, warmth (such as extra coats, sleeping bags, a blanket, hats, gloves, etc.), tire chains, a shovel, a flashlight with extra batteries, first aid kit, an ice scraper, device chargers, a jumper cable, and other traction devices like recovery traction boards.
Install winter tires on your car if necessary.
If your car gets stuck, be sure the exhaust pipe is clear of snow and be aware of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Drive, accelerate, decelerate, and turn slowly.
Increase your following distance
While the above tips offer a general foundation for winter outdoor safety, it's crucial to understand that each specific winter activity comes with its own set of risks. For instance, ice fishing requires additional knowledge of ice safety, while skiing in the backcountry demands avalanche training. It’s your responsibility to research and plan accordingly. By understanding and respecting the challenges posed by winter, you’ll ensure a safer, more enjoyable experience in the winter wilderness.
About the Author
Hi, I’m Halie! Thanks for checking out my site. I’m a passionate outdoorswoman and casual blogger currently residing in Missoula, Montana.
I spend as much time as possible on the water or in the mountains with my two mutts and my partner, Cole. Fly fishing - from chasing alpine trout in the summer to swinging flies for winter steelhead - backpacking, rafting, and packrafting are a few of our favorite pursuits. Further, I’m passionate about conservation because I believe the aforementioned activities depend on it. I grew up in southwest Missouri, and have also lived in Washington State and Utah, where I worked as a park ranger at Canyonlands and Arches National Parks. My current “day job” is in the field of environmental compliance.