Winter Hiking

TIPS  AND  ADVICE  By  Cindy  Laquidara  

Bene$its  Of  Hiking  Not  only  is  hiking  a  great  way  to  explore  new  places  and  become  one  with  nature,  it’s  great  for  mental  health,  burns  calories,  and  builds  muscle,  making  you  stronger,  over  Hme.  

Hiking  In  America  In  United  States,  especially,  hiking  conHnues  to  grow  in  popularity.  In  Spring  of  2015,  there  were  an  esHmated  38  million  hikers  throughout  the  country.  That  trend  has  increased  every  year  since  2008.  

Winter  Hiking  Many  hiking  and  backpacking  lovers  take  a  break  in  the  winter.  Unlike  spring,  summer  and  fall,  the  colder  months  are  considered  the  off-­‐season.  

Reasons  For  Hiking  In  The  Winter  However,  seUng  out  for  a  nice  hike  in  the  winter  is  a  great  way  to  remain  acHve,  to  explore  trails  more  fully,  since  they  are  less  crowded,  and  to  get  some  incredible  views.  

Winter  Hiking  Tips  Hiking  in  general  requires  preparaHon,  winter  hiking  requires  even  more.  The  following  Hps  will  help  alleviate  rookie  mistakes  and  ensure  that  the  experience  is  a  pleasant  one.  

Dress  Properly  •  Dress  in  layers  •  Wear  clothing  which  keeps  in  warmth  and  keeps  moisture  out  

•  Long  underwear  and  a  few  pairs  of  winter  socks  are  recommended  

•  Invest  in  proper  footwear  

Go  With  Friends  •  Hiking  is  fun  but  risky  •  Traveling  with  a  group  increases  the  amount  of  eyes  and  ears  to  provide  help  should  issues  arise  

•  Friends  make  the  overall  experience  beXer  

Buy  Proper  Equipment  In  addiHon  to  clothing,  the  following  are  recommended.  •  Snow  shovels  •  Wands  •  Probes  •  Digital  beacons/trackers  

Do  Your  Research  •  Learn  everything  you  can  about  the  hiking  site(s)  and  what  you’ll  need  for  the  journey  

•  Get  recommendaHons  from  those  who’ve  already  take  the  journey  

•  Have  fun!  

For  More  Information  Visit:    

cindylaquidara.org