National Parks Winter Hiking and Safety Tips

Cascading waterfalls in Yosemite may be frozen mid-descent, and the majestic red rock walls of the Grand Canyon might be capped with a pristine dusting of snow. Exploring this special type of breathtaking beauty on foot is well worth your attention, but much like a summer hike, it also comes with its own set of considerations.

When snow blankets the ground and temperatures drop, a winter hike demands specific preparation and knowledge. Don't let the thought of colder conditions deter you. With the right gear and essential national park tips, you can safely embrace the tranquility and spectacular scenery that only winter in the national parks can offer.

Preparing for Your Winter Hike

There are several key tips to keep in mind as you get ready to enjoy some of the most popular national park tours in their winter glory:

• Plan Ahead Thoroughly: Hiking the national parks any time of year requires careful planning well in advance so you have plenty of time to consider all the potential variables. This is even more critical for a winter hike. Be sure to research trails within the park, understand typical weather conditions for the time of year you plan to visit and assess the difficulty level of various activities and hikes. Always check the specific national park's website for alerts and trail warnings, as winter conditions can severely impact accessibility.
• Share Your Itinerary: No matter the travel destination — whether it's a national park or a new country — it's always recommended to share your itinerary with a friend or family member. For winter hiking, this is non-negotiable.
• Know Your Limits: As you prepare for a national park excursion, it's always important to be realistic with your current physical ability. This is particularly true for a winter hike, which can be more physically demanding due to snow and ice. Choose hikes that are suitable for your current fitness level and be sure to consult your doctor beforehand to determine which activities are safe. Don't push yourself beyond your comfort zone, especially in cold conditions.

What to Bring on Your Winter Hiking Adventure

An important hiking safety tip is to pack essential supplies. When gearing up for snow hiking, your packing list needs to be robust to handle colder temperatures and potential snow and ice conditions. Here's a comprehensive winter hiking packing list:

• Appropriate Clothing: When hiking national parks in winter, wear moisture-wicking layers and sturdy hiking boots that can handle the terrain and weather. Opt for synthetic or wool base layers to wick away sweat, insulating middle layers (fleece or down) for warmth, and a waterproof and windproof outer shell to protect against the elements. Avoid cotton, as it retains moisture and can lead to hypothermia. Accessories like a warm hat, waterproof gloves or mittens and sunglasses can also help protect you from the elements. Gaiters are also highly recommended to keep snow out of your boots.
• Enough Food and Water: Whenever hiking, it's recommended to carry enough food and water to last an extra day. Pack high-energy, easy-to-eat snacks like trail mix, energy bars, nuts and dried fruit. Consider using an insulated water bottle to prevent it from freezing. A hydration pack with a water reservoir makes it easy to carry large volumes of water comfortably, but ensure the tube is insulated. Water purification straws or tablets can be used in case of emergency.
• Navigation Equipment: Don't rely solely on your phone to traverse the park, as the signal can be unreliable and the battery life may be limited. Instead, carry a physical map of the park, along with a GPS device with downloadable maps. A compass is also a fundamental backup.
• Essential Supplies for Winter: Your first aid kit should be more comprehensive for winter conditions. Include items for blisters, cuts, and any personal medications. In addition, carry a flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries, a multi-tool, an emergency blanket and a fire starter. A small shovel can be useful for digging out a snow shelter in an emergency. A personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger is also highly recommended as it can send your location or call for help when cell service is unavailable.
• Traction Devices: Depending on the conditions, microspikes or snowshoes might be necessary for your winter hike. Microspikes provide excellent grip on icy trails, while snowshoes help you float on deeper snow. Check trail conditions before you go to determine if these are needed.
• Headlamp/Flashlight: With shorter daylight hours in winter, a reliable light source is crucial. Always carry a headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries.

Staying Safe on the Trail

Prioritizing your safety when hiking national parks ensures that your time in nature is positive and memorable. These winter hiking safety tips are crucial for a successful and safe experience:

• Stay on Marked Trails: It can be easy to get lost if you veer off trail, especially in the vast backcountry covered in snow. Always follow marked paths to avoid getting lost and to prevent disturbing the environment.
• Watch Trail Hazards: Keep a watchful eye on loose rocks, slippery slopes and unstable edges, as many park injuries occur due to falls. Be aware of cornices (overhanging snow) and icy patches.
• Do Not Approach or Touch Wildlife: Never get near wildlife, as even small birds and mammals can bite and carry disease. A general rule of thumb is to stay at least 100 yards from bears and 25 yards from other animals.
• Start Early and Watch the Time: It can be easy to lose track of time when taking in the stunning landscapes and sounds of America's national parks. Avoid getting caught on trails in the dark by starting early and turning back well before the sun sets. Daylight hours are significantly shorter in winter, so plan your hike accordingly.
• Carry the 10 Essentials: Whether you're going on a short hike or a longer backpacking excursion, carry the 10 essentials, which include navigation, sun protection, insulation, illumination, first aid supplies, a fire starter, a repair kit, nutrition, emergency shelter and hydration. For winter, these are even more critical.

Some of the Best Winter Hiking in the US

The United States boasts an incredible array of national parks that offer fantastic opportunities for winter hiking. While many parks are beautiful year-round, some truly shine when blanketed in snow. When considering where to experience the best winter hiking in the US, here are a few ideas:

• Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado: When winter arrives, Rocky Mountain National Park completely transforms. Trails like Bear Lake Road offer accessible snow adventures, while more experienced hikers can explore higher elevations.
• Yosemite National Park, California: While some roads close, Yosemite's valley remains accessible and incredibly beautiful in winter. Imagine towering granite cliffs dusted with snow, frozen waterfalls and tranquil, less crowded trails. The Lower Yosemite Fall and Mirror Lake trails are popular choices for a winter hike.
• Zion National Park, Utah: You might not expect it, but Zion's red rock canyons take on a striking new beauty when dusted with snow. While some of the more famous trails may be inaccessible, you'll still get stunning views and a different side of the park's charm on lower elevation trails like the Pa'rus.
• Acadia National Park, Maine: On the East Coast, Acadia offers a rugged coastal winter experience. Come winter, Acadia's Carriage Roads are closed to cars and become accessible for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, leading you through dreamy, serene forest paths and offering incredible ocean views.
• Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming: With its dramatic mountain range, Grand Teton in winter is breathtaking. Free of vehicle traffic, the park becomes a prime spot for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Enjoying Winter Hiking While Staying Safe and Prepared

We hope these winter hiking safety tips have inspired you to consider a new kind of North American hiking adventure. The quiet crunch of snow underfoot, the crisp air and the sparkling landscapes create a magical atmosphere.

Now that you understand basic national park safety, it's time to put your winter hiking essentials together and find an adventure. At Road Scholar, we're thrilled to offer an incredible lineup of national park programs including walking and hiking tours in places like Acadia, Grand Teton, Yellowstone, Joshua Tree and beyond. Our expert-led tours mean you'll have knowledgeable instructors by your side, ready to help you navigate the snowy trails safely and with confidence.