1. Let Time Crawl Like a Snail
Winter hiking requires adjusting your mindset. Time is key. In winter, the goal isn't mileage or speed, but rather savoring and stretching time—letting it crawl like a snail. Because everything slows down in winter.
With snow underfoot and a backpack on your shoulders, reaching your destination takes longer than usual;
Setting up camp and cooking in the snow takes more time than in other seasons;
With two layers of gloves on and a stove and gas canister frozen solid, starting a fire and cooking becomes more challenging;
More importantly, winter travel means constantly adapting to an ever-changing environment.
2. Never Lower Your Guard on Safety
As long as we have proper warm clothing and awareness to avoid accidents, extreme environments aren't inherently dangerous. As Wang Yongfeng, leader of China’s Mountaineering Team, puts it, mountaineering is actually a low-risk sport because those who climb are well-prepared for all potential dangers. But slippery ice underfoot and falling rocks overhead are constant reminders that we must stay alert.
Pay attention to weather changes and adjust or cancel your plan when necessary. In severe cold, high altitudes, or unpredictable harsh conditions, it’s best to travel in a group of four or more so that if emergencies arise and rescue is needed, no one will be alone.
3. Keep Your Body Warm
The biggest danger in winter outdoor activities comes from the cold during hiking or camping. Guard against frostbite and hypothermia. You might not feel cold while moving in wind and snow, but once you stop, your body stops generating heat. Early signs of hypothermia include difficulty performing basic physical tasks, like being unable to open a backpack or tear open a snack package.
Measures to prevent hypothermia include: 1. Replenish energy in a timely manner, preferably with high-energy foods. 2. Always carry a set of dry clothes and a pair of socks. After a day’s hike, dry clothing can often be a lifesaver. 3. Wear a hat and gloves. Most body heat is lost through the head, and keeping your fingers flexible is also essential. 4. It’s best to wear fleece and moisture-wicking base layers. Cotton is a killer—if you’re wearing cotton and start to get cold, change into non-cotton undergarments, fleece, or a jacket and windbreaker. 5. Rest appropriately, but don’t push yourself to fatigue, nor rest too much or linger too long.
4. How Can You Drink Water?
This isn’t a simple question. In summer, finding reliable water sources in the wild is relatively easy—you can drink it directly or boil it. But in winter, with the ground frozen, you’ll often need to melt snow or ice to get water, and drink hot water to replenish warmth.
Melting Snow: 1. Make sure there’s a little water in the bottom of your pot before melting snow, otherwise the snow will taste burnt and melt more slowly. 2. If the weather is clear for several hours, you can put some snow in a plastic bag, tie it up, and place it in the sun to melt. The water obtained this way is best used for cooking, as drinking it directly may have a slight plastic taste.
Preventing Freezing: 1. Store water inside your sleeping bag at night, so you won’t wake up to a frozen water bottle in the morning. 2. Use an insulated sleeve to keep water in your bottle from freezing.
5. Choose the Right Campsite
When selecting a campsite, find a sheltered spot. Try to choose an east-facing slope where the tent can be warmed by the morning sun. Be sure to assess your surroundings—is there any risk of avalanches? Could snow fall from tree branches due to strong winds? Areas around shrubs or behind large rocks are ideal (though consider other risks). You can also build your own camp, constructing snow walls. Avoid setting up in areas where cold air collects.
6. Bring the Right Camping Gear
1. Gaiters and sunglasses are essential for walking in snowy terrain. The former keeps snow out of your boots; the latter prevents snow blindness.
2. Trekking poles—a good pair can help conserve energy, navigate snowy terrain, and maintain balance on tricky ground.
3. Sleeping bag—down is the best option. A thick synthetic sleeping bag combined with a fleece liner can also work. The fill power of your down bag should match your body type, but moisture protection is crucial—once wet, it’s hard to dry.
4. Sleeping pad—bring a thick or aluminum-foil-insulated pad. If using a regular one, add a ground sheet for extra warmth.
5. Clothing—in addition to waterproof and windproof outerwear, bring a down jacket, fleece pants, extra shoes, gloves, and a hat. These are all essential.
6. Others—bring extra plastic bags. Aside from their usual uses, they can also be worn over your feet for warmth.
7. Hiking Correctly on Snow
1. When hiking in a group, those at the back should try to step in the footprints of those ahead. This increases safety and conserves energy.
2. When encountering heavy snow cover with no visible path, physically strong team members should take turns leading to ensure the average stamina of the entire group is maintained.
The key to snow hiking is to go slow and steady—walking less or at a slower pace is fine, but never rush the journey.