Genevieve Buck Genevieve Buck

Be Prepared for Winter Hiking — Even in the Fall🍂

How to be ready for hiking in the white mountains this fall and winter

I know it might sound silly, it’s 50° at home, maybe even at the trailhead, the fall leaves are popping, and you’re ready to hit the trails. But here’s the thing: those gorgeous higher-elevation mountains? They don’t care what the weather is like at your house.

After a few recent rescues of hikers who were not prepared (clearly they haven’t listened to our podcast or read this blog 😉), it’s time to say it again: don’t underestimate the mountains, especially in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.

If you haven’t already, check out Mike’s full blog on the Ten Essentials. I’m adding a few cold-weather and winter hiking must-haves to that list. But first, a quick refresher:

  1. Map

  2. Headlamp

  3. Sun protection

  4. First aid kit

  5. Multi-tool or knife

  6. Matches or lighter

  7. Emergency blanket

  8. Extra food

  9. Extra water & purification method

  10. Extra clothes

Now let’s talk about a few extra essentials for New England hikers heading out in fall or winter.

Layer Like a Pro (a Warm, Dry, Cozy Pro)

The right layers can make or break your hike. Here’s the golden rule: no cotton. Go for synthetic materials like polyester, or even better, merino wool, it’s my favorite when it’s really cold. Mike has a saying and I am adopting it: there is no bad weather only bad clothing, listen to him he is correct, this time. We have a rule. Start the hike slightly cool, you warm up as you hike. But always have layers ready to go. No one wants to be shivering! Here’s my layering strategy:

“It’s Just Fall… Do I Really Need All That?”

Short answer: yes.

Even if it feels mild when you start, temperatures can drop fast as you climb. It might be a crisp fall morning at the trailhead and a snowy, icy wonderland at the summit. As I’m writing this, Mt. Washington already has snow!

So along with the ten essentials, toss some extra layers & winter extras in your bag just in case:

  • Microspikes: These should really be the 11th essential. If you listened to our Mt. Pemi episode, you know the rule — always carry a backup pair! If one breaks mid-hike, you’ll be glad you did.
    Check out Kahtoola Microspikes from LLBean. We have scored deals at EMS or Amazon.

  • It is the time of year to add your favorite hat and gloves to your bag. No one wants cold fingers!

Watch the Weather

Don’t just rely on your iPhone app. If you’re hiking in the White Mountains, check the Mount Washington Observatory Higher Summit Forecast — they’re the experts for a reason.

And if the weather looks questionable, turn around. Seriously. The goal is to get back to your car safely, not to make the evening news. The mountain will still be there next weekend!

Also, it gets dark fast this time of year. Bring a headlamp (and extra batteries) because “stumbling through the woods in the dark” is not the kind of adventure you want.

Final Thoughts

Always tell someone your hiking plans before heading out. Be smart, be prepared, and don’t be a statistic. Check out the NH safe card. This is only vaild in NH, Maine & Vermont do not offer this type of card.

The mountains are magical, but they can also be merciless. So pack your layers, check the forecast, grab your spikes, and get out there safely. Winter and fall hiking can be incredible, as long as you respect it.

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