Whether you’re new to snow hiking or you’ve been hiking for years, it’s always important to be prepared, especially if you’re planning an adventure in the mountains such as in the stunning Austrian Alps. This article will provide you with a few essential tips to keep you safe and comfortable in the snow while exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Austrian Alps.
Being well-equipped with the essentials is crucial for hiking in the snow. In the Alps, where the winters can be quite challenging, having the right gear is even more important. Consider investing in high-quality snowshoes to help you navigate the snowy terrain with ease. These will prevent you from sinking deep into the snow and make your hike much more enjoyable.
Unbroken powder
Unlike its cousin down the lane, the unbroken snows of heaven don’t make you feel old. While the ilk of the elves are hard at work, the rest of us can take advantage of a ski area that’s a cinch to get to and has more than enough snow to boot. Despite the fact that the ski area isn’t the largest in the nation, it’s still one of the best in the country.
For example, the resort boasts more than 500 acres of snowy goodness to keep you stowaway-free for the duration of your vacation. It’s also the only resort in the country to offer an all-inclusive package where you can leave your skis at the door and let the ski valets take care of the rest. With more than 4,500 acres, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more suitable location to spend your ski dollars than Vail. You can also take advantage of the resort’s unique location by planning a ski trip to neighboring resorts in Summit County, Colorado, a verdant oasis in the sands of the Rockies.
Snowshoes
Using snowshoes for snow hiking is an excellent way to expand your exercise options in the winter. They make trudging through knee-deep snow more manageable and can be used on both flat and rocky terrain. They are designed to increase your safety and reduce tendon strain.
There are two main types of snowshoes. Rolling terrain snowshoes are a cheaper option, but are not suitable for mountaineering or steep descents. They are easy to adjust and have been used by native people for thousands of years.
Mountain terrain snowshoes are more expensive and should be used by experienced hikers. These snowshoes have strong crampons for added traction. They also have sturdy bindings.
The MSR Explore Series is a good all-around snowshoe for mountaineering, backcountry pursuits, and winter exploration. These snowshoes are designed to offer all-day comfort, speed on-off binding, and extra features for hiking on slopes. These snowshoes come in several different models, including a lightweight Tyker model for children.
ActiveLift snowshoes are perfect for powder-textured snow. These snowshoes are 25 inches long and feature a 19-degree heel lift. They also feature adjustable DuoFit bindings. These bindings reduce tendon strain and ice buildup. They are available in three different sizes.
Tubular frame snowshoes are made in the USA and feature an eight-tooth Anaconda toe crampon. They are designed to fit men’s shoe sizes 4.5-15. They also feature an Ergo Televator heel lift bar to increase efficiency and reduce fatigue.
If you plan on taking a backpacking trip in the snow, the size of your pack will also affect your overall weight. Make sure you account for this when purchasing a snowshoe. If you are hiking in deep snow, you should purchase a snowshoe with a wider surface area.
Gaiters
Taking a winter hike can be a lot of fun and a great way to get outside. However, there are several things you should know before you head out on your adventure.
The winter weather can be harsh, so make sure you pack the appropriate clothing for the season. It’s also a good idea to pack extra water. Keeping your hands and feet warm is crucial to preventing frostbite. Wearing a pair of warm socks is a must.
A good rule of thumb is to pack at least three layers of clothing. These can include a base layer, a mid layer, and an outer layer. For extra warmth, you might consider wearing long underwear over your pants.
The winter weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to check the forecast for your area before you head out. Taking the time to study the topography of the route you’ll be hiking is a good idea. It’s also a good idea keep a map and compass handy.
The first step to taking a winter hike is to choose a trail that’s not too steep or long. This will help you conserve energy. For instance, if your route is an uphill climb, take short steps while you’re going up.
The best time to hike in the snow is in the morning, when the sun is rising. This also means you’ll have more time to explore your route and enjoy the scenery.
In addition, you should pack a small backpacking stove to help melt the snow in your bag. A rapid water boiler, like Jetboil, is a good choice.
The snow reflects light, so it’s important to use sunglasses with UV400 protection.
Snacks
Whether you’re planning a day hike or a weekend expedition, snacks for snow hiking are a must. A healthy snack can provide a quick boost, keep you energized throughout the day, and help keep you warm.
Carbohydrate-rich snacks can help fuel a hike, and may be especially helpful during cold weather. If you’re looking to eat something sweet, try a banana dipped in peanut butter or honey.
Protein-rich snacks are also helpful for a hike. Nut butters, cheese sticks, and peanut butter balls all make great snacks. They’re easy to carry and can provide a boost of energy for your hike.
Dried fruit is another great snack. You can eat the fruit itself, or you can snack on the fruit leathers. They’re small enough to carry in a pack, and the moisture they contain will keep them from getting freezer burn.
Another good snack to carry is crackers. Crackers are easy to carry and aren’t as heavy as bread. They’re also a good mix of fat and starch. If you’re looking for a more refined snack, try a whole-grain cracker.
Nut butters and dates are other great hiking snacks. Dates provide a healthy dose of antioxidants, and they’re also great for providing a quick boost of energy. You can eat the dates plain or add some nut butter for even more taste.
Trail mix is also a good hiking snack. Trail mix contains a variety of carbohydrates, which are great for providing instant energy. If you’re going to be hiking in winter, you may want to consider a trail mix that contains pumpkin seeds for a little more protein.
Another great hiking snack is potato chips. Potato chips are great for a variety of reasons, including their salty and crunchy nature.
Precautions
During winter hiking, it is important to make certain you stay warm. The best way to do this is by dressing in layers. This will help regulate your body temperature and keep you dry. It is also important to drink lots of water.
If you are going on a winter hike, you should check the weather forecast to see what the temperatures are going to be. You should also be prepared for the possibility of a winter storm. These can blow in unexpectedly.
In addition, you should check your GPS map regularly to make sure that you are on the right path. A GPS map can be a lifesaver when hiking in the snow. It can also tell you what trail conditions are like. You should also pack extra batteries and batteries for your phone.
If you are going hiking in a group, make sure you have someone who knows where you are going and knows how to contact mountain rescue if you do not return. You should also bring a way to attract attention, such as a whistle or flares.
In addition, you should be sure to carry plenty of water and snacks. The cold can make you thirstier, and dehydration can accelerate the onset of hypothermia.
Before you begin a winter hike, be sure to learn about the signs and symptoms of hypothermia. You should also be aware of the dangers of avalanches. You should also be aware of the animals that live in the area. Many animals hibernate during the winter, but some wake up and go for short walks.
If you are new to winter hiking, it may be a good idea to sign up for a course at REI. Their Avalanche Awareness classes will teach you how to be safe.
