Hiking is fun but can also be dangerous. Doing so in winter conditions adds risk with potential for slipping, hypothermia and avalanches
Calgary’s proximity to the Rocky Mountains allows for ample year-round hiking opportunities. As fall takes hold and winter looms, hikers should be reminded of safety tips to avoid mishaps.
Any hiking can be dangerous, but doing so in winter conditions adds risk with potential for slipping, hypothermia and avalanches.
Banff and Lake Louise Tourism recommends four pieces of equipment for winter hiking safety: spikes, poles, gaiters and bear spray.
Poles will also help with traction, adding extra support and stability especially on a steep incline or decline. Poles can also be used to test the depth of snow, and to test ice when crossing a frozen stream.
Gaiters are used to protect from moisture and debris on a walk. While not essential, gaiters are recommended for winter hiking to cover the entrance at the top of a shoe or hiking boot that may allow snow to enter. Wet socks can lead to blisters, general discomfort and in severe cases, frostbite or hypothermia.
To use bear spray, remove the safety clip and aim for the bear’s face. Wind, rain or snow may reduce the spray’s effectiveness. While the product is labelled as bear spray, the deterrent can be used to ward off any aggressive animal.
A recent post to the social media website Reddit in a thread about Alberta hiking shared the story of how two young female hikers required rescuing after heading onto a trail unprepared. Two experienced hikers encountered the females who were “hugging each other and crying,” according to the online post.
The young hikers were wearing leggings, hoodies and sneakers and had been stuck in the same spot for several hours due to fear of proceeding. The experienced hikers lent the youths poles and guided them through the remainder of the hike, as their shoes were causing traction and support problems and caused repeated falls.
The experienced hiker, who shared the story, listed trail selection, navigation, footwear and clothing as four causes of the youths’ mishap.
Trail selection and navigation
The Yamnuska trail requires techniques such as traverses, which is the gradual crossing of a hillside, as well as a scree (loose rocks) and chain section.
“It has the potential to be dangerous if the weather deteriorates,” writes hiking blog Hike Bike Travel, saying hikers have died on the mountain. “Mount Yamnuska is not one for novice hikers.”
Time spent researching what to expect may have deterred the youths from attempting the challenging hike. Parks Canada’s first rule on its “10 golden visitor rules” list is to “know your limits.”
While Yamnuska is a well-marked trail, many others depend on natural markers to guide hikers. As snow covers the trails, natural markers become more challenging to notice.
Cellular service is unreliable in the mountains, but many hiking apps allow maps of the hikes to be downloaded and viewed offline. However, the risk of a phone dying remains. Experienced hikers recommend bringing a paper copy of a trail map as a backup.
Before heading into the mountains, it is important to share a complete trip plan with someone, including location of the hike and how long it is expected to take.
Proper hiking attire
Good-quality hiking boots are essential for a safe hike year-round. The specialized footwear has soles meant for rough terrain, offering extra grip as well as ankle support.
Parks Canada suggests footwear that provides support, grip and protection from the elements, while being comfortable for the chosen trail. Even short or easy trails may expose hikers to slippery surfaces like roots, wet grass or uneven rocks.
Experienced hikers may opt for trail runners or hiking shoes, though winter hikers agree boots are preferable for wet and snowy conditions. Boots are more likely to keep feet dry than running shoes, which is imperative when hiking in freezing conditions, as hypothermia is a significant risk.
To further protect hikers from hypothermia, packing extra clothes, including socks, is recommended for winter hikes. Proper attire and packing backup clothes aren’t exclusive to winter treks and moisture-wicking clothes are recommended year-round.
Weather on a summit or among the trees will be different than on the ground, and typically colder. Hikers should wear lightweight, breathable clothes so movement is not restricted, but pack layers to use as needed.
To prepare for loss of daylight, or an early morning outing ahead of sunrise, headlamps or flashlights with spare batteries are recommended, with experienced hikers opting for a headlamp so as to remain hands free. Hiking in the dark can be dangerous and should be avoided by amateurs.
What to pack
Food and water are essentials when packing a bag for a hike, not matter the length or difficulty. The energy exerted on a multi-kilometre trek will require hydration and nourishment to keep energy levels appropriate.
Parks Canada recommends drinking about half a litre of water per hour, and not to wait until thirst hits to take a sip. The organization says if a hike will last more than a few hours, food packed should be similar in calories and nutrition to a complete meal, saying high-energy food is ideal.
Alberta Health Services suggests nuts and dried fruit as hiking snacks. For backcountry hikes, the health organization encourages packaged foods that can be rehydrated.
When possible, food should be packed in reusable containers to reduce waste. If producing waste, be sure to dispose of it in designated bins. “Leave no trace” is Parks Canada’s second rule on its “10 golden visitor rules” list.
Littering in the mountains is illegal, and will attract wildlife.
Also to be packed, no matter the duration or complexity of a hike, is safety equipment. This includes a first aid kit, a multi-tool, a fire starter kit and a whistle. This is not a comprehensive list, and each hike has unique challenges that require different safety items.
Research the hike ahead of time and pack accordingly. Ultimately, hikers are responsible for their own safety.
Beginner hikers should opt for shorter trails with little elevation gain until skill and experience allows for more challenging trails.