Want to be a four-season hiker? There’s no need to hang up your boots when the temperature drops. With the right preparation, winter hiking can be one of the most rewarding ways to explore the outdoors. Crisp air, quieter trails and dramatic, frost-dusted landscapes await, and we have plenty of hostels perfectly placed for winter adventures. You can even book one of our holiday cottages or rural retreats on an Exclusive Hire basis, ideal for large walking groups keen to make the most of the season.
Your mates might think you’re mad (we’d say determined!), but year-round hiking is absolutely achievable with a bit of extra planning. Keep your fitness up through the colder months and enjoy some unexpected perks: fewer bugs, less sunburn and scenery that feels like it fell straight out of a winter fairytale. Follow our top tips to help you stay warm, dry and safe on the trails.
1. Find a buddy
We'd all love to channel our inner Elsa from Frozen, but heading off into the snow on your own is no fairytale and definitely not the smartest move. Winter conditions increase the risk of slips, fatigue and getting cold quickly, so having a hiking buddy can make all the difference. Choose someone experienced who'll show you the ropes on your first winter trek and teach you about the hazards you may face out on the trails. As well as being safer, you can admire the stunning scenery together too, and nothing will motivate you more than having someone alongside you to keep you going when you feel like turning around.
2. Dress in layers
Staying warm and dry is essential, but avoiding overheating is just as important. Sweat that cools on your skin can increase your risk of hypothermia, making it harder to regulate your body temperature. Think of layering like dressing an onion, so you can easily peel off layers to adjust your temperature. Choose a moisture-wicking base of long underwear or a base layer, a middle layer of insulating fleece to keep you warm, and a weatherproof outer jacket and trousers. Avoid cotton as it stays wet and pack a puffy insulation layer too, like a down jacket or similar synthetic, if you're going to be staying still or resting for long periods.
3. Accessorise
You may already feel wrapped up like a yeti, but there’s more! Winter accessories are non-negotiable. A warm, weatherproof hat (or even a balaclava) helps regulate heat loss, while layered socks and gloves keep hands and feet comfortable. Bring spare gloves and socks in case they get wet and consider knee-high gaiters to keep snow and mud out of your boots. In extreme weather conditions, goggles can protect your eyes from wind and the sun.
Footwear matters too. Waterproof insulated hiking boots are worth splurging on and traction aids can be a game-changer. Microspikes are lightweight and ideal for well-used trails with icy patches, while crampons are better suited to steeper terrain and thicker ice where extra grip is essential.
4. Know your route
Even your favourite hiking trail can look different in the snow, and bad weather makes it easy to get lost. Snow, heavy fog and freezing conditions can all make it much more difficult to find your bearings and can even make you feel disoriented in a place you know quite well. Plan your route carefully, avoiding known hazards such as steep slopes, frozen rivers and avalanche-prone areas. Always carry a map and compass and use a GPS device as a backup rather than a replacement. Make sure everyone in your group knows the plan and tell someone at home where you’re going and when you expect to return.
Top winter hiking routes near us: head to our London hostels for a stroll through Richmond Park, take a wonderful winter walk over the Lake District's fells, or explore the dramatic moorland of the Welsh Brecon Beacons for a more accessible alternative to Eryri (Snowdonia).
5. Check the weather
A gentle summer route can quickly become serious in winter conditions. Avoid putting yourself in danger and steer clear of blizzards, strong winds and freezing rain. Check the weather forecast before you go (including the mountain forecast if you’re planning on heading up a summit) and keep an eye on conditions throughout the day. With limited daylight hours, it’s always better to turn back early than push on into worsening weather. There’s no shame in a sensible decision.
6. Be prepared
Winter hiking demands a little extra resilience. Brush up on basic winter survival skills and carry kit for worst-case scenarios: extra food, extra water, a bivvy bag, and spare clothes. Ideally get someone in your group who’s a real Bear Grylls at fire building, first aid, shelter-building and snow navigation! Have a plan B ready if you get stuck in a storm or if someone gets injured. Be certain where your nearest emergency services are and always take a phone with you. Remember to pack a portable charger as well!
7. Camp safe
Unless you've got an expert at building igloos with you, share camping gear between your group just in case you need to stop overnight if the weather gets bad and night falls. A four-season tent, thick sleeping bags and a foam mat can be lifesavers. A warm down jacket is also worth carrying, even if you don’t plan to camp, as it can provide crucial insulation if you’re forced to stop for longer than expected.
8. Winter kitchen
Winter hiking burns lots of calories and you'll need extra fuel to keep warm and keep moving. Take hot chocolate breaks and stay well-fed with a protein-rich breakfast, high calorie snacks throughout the day and a warming one-pot dinner. Big hiking-friendly hostels like YHA Castleton Losehill Hall and YHA Keswick are perfect for cooking up a storm in the self-catering kitchens after a long day in the cold.
You won't feel as thirsty, but remember to drink ample amounts of water to stay hydrated, and never eat snow – you'll waste energy melting it.
9. Health
Extreme cold can be bad news for the human body, so make sure you know the warning signs of frostbite and hypothermia. Carry a first aid kit, hand warmers and something to shelter in if someone gets hurt. Most importantly, listen to your body. Don’t shrug it off and try to be a hero if you feel unwell. Getting home safely is always the priority.
10. Bring the essentials
Make a clear list covering clothing, food and equipment before every winter hike. Alongside your usual gear, remember key safety items such as a lighter, headlamp, pocketknife, bivvy bag, signalling device and, where appropriate, a snow shovel.
Do you need some inspiration for a winter hike? From frozen waterfalls to city skylines – these UK winter walks will put a spring in your step.
Danoz / Daniel Jędzura / Netzer Johannes / Adobe Stock
