It’s no secret that I really enjoy some winter hiking in the snow. That’s why, for the past couple of years I have really looked forward not only to winter, but the changing of seasons and hopefully a little snow in sunny Southern California. There can be quite a difference though in both the gear and skills needed to traverse any mountain or trail when its covered in snow or ice so I decided to put together some of the products I use when hiking in the winter in Southern California (not to be confused with winter in places where you get a lot of snow). I do want to be clear that trails can become much more dangerous in the winter, planning, gear and physical abilities are not only more important but can be tested at a level far above a normal hike outside of those conditions. Always let people know your plans and be prepared for the trip to take longer than normal during the winter, which usually means an earlier start.
Single Day Winter Pack – Most of my hikes are single day hikes, so I have really refined my single day pack at this point but winter gear is still a little new for me. You need a pack that is big and rugged enough to carry or attach all of your gear. I usually look for something at least 1,800 cu. In. in size and that has some way (preferably some kind of daisy chain or loop system) to attach gear like snowshoes.
Layers like a jacket, technical pants, gloves and a face cover are all important. The key here is knowing your environment, I typically like to go with more layers that are all lighter in nature rather than fewer that are heavier, enabling me to dress up or down depending on the conditions. A face covering at least in SoCal is a must, the sun can reflect off the snow and even in the winter you can get a serious sun burn on the mountains.
Gear:
2 Carabiners, 1 Quick draw, Rope (rated more than double your weight, preferably climbing rope) – While not a requirement, having these can be invaluable if they are ever needed and can be used to attach gear to the pack as well. These are also the first items I tend to leave at home / in the car on more mellow hikes.
Ice Axe – Again, only needed on more serious hikes, but a must have on hitting bigger mountains and steep ridges. It’s important to not only have an ice axe but to know how to use it, practice using it, arresting, and carrying it before any big hikes.
Traction – From snow shoes to crampons or micro spikes, I immediately go to my micro spikes here in SoCal. These quite often are exactly what I need, unless there happens to be a lot of fresh snow, which is rarely the case in Southern California.
Trekking Poles – Usually trekking poles are a must have item if there is any kind of snow or ice on the ground, they not only help with stability but with traction.
First Aid Kit – Always… Carry a first aid kit, even if it is a small one, but anticipate your potential needs. I have about 4 ready to go first aid kits for hiking with others, on my own, in the summer or the winter.
Bear Grylls Survivor Kit – During winter hikes I definitely toss this kit into my pack from the Gerber Bear Grylls Survival Series. While I never plan to use it, if I was ever in a pickle it would be an invaluable piece of gear.
Tech:
GPS – During the winter, trails can become completely covered in snow or ice, which often means sticking to the trail is less important as long as you know were you are going. Some kind of GPS device is a must during winter hikes because its really easy to get turned around, off trail or completely lost. I am currently using an old phone with Everytrail and MyTracks which has served me pretty well.
Altimeter, Compass, Thermometer – While not a requirement, I am always carrying something with an altitude and temperature readings, just some helpful data so that you know your ascent or decent and the temperature.
Food:
Yes? Haha I only mention food because I usually pack a bit more on winter hikes, typically winter hiking is a little more intense so you are burning more energy while out on the trail so I want to make sure I am adequately fueling myself.
Here is a video of my solo summit of Mt Baldy Feb 2011 where I explain some of the gear I am using.
While not a complete list, this is the normal gear I take with me on a Southern California hike. I know this gear is very lacking for most winter hiking but in our area there is not a ton of snow very often so this is a general selection of gear that will work well for warmer winter hikes. Make sure to leave a comment with some of your recommended gear if you have something I left off.
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