Bundle up & Hit the Trail: 5 Essential Winter Hiking Tips for New England

Amber in New England | Updated November 2025

Winter in New England is a magical time of year, with snow-covered trails and crisp, cold air. But the mountains here, especially the White Mountains, can be challenging for even experienced hikers.

In this essential guide, you’ll find five tips and advice on staying safe, warm, and comfortable while tackling the beauty of winter hiking in New England.

1. 🧥 Dress in Layers (The Only Way)

Layering is the most important rule for hiking in cold weather. Doing it correctly will keep you dry and warm by managing sweat, which can turn deadly cold quickly.

• Base Layer: The Moisture Manager. Start off with a base layer of synthetic or wool material. This is your moisture-wicking layer, moving sweat away from your skin.

  • See my guide to The Best Base Layers for Cold Weather Travel for specific recommendations that work in both New England and Iceland.

• Mid-Layer: The Insulator. Add a mid-layer of fleece or wool. This is your insulating layer, trapping heat against your body.

• Outer Shell: The Fortress. Top it off with a waterproof and windproof shell. This protects you from the elements, especially vital above the tree line.

• Extremities: You lose the most heat from your head and hands. Make sure to wear a warm hat and insulated gloves (or mittens), and bring an extra set of dry gloves in your pack.

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2. 🥾 Bring the Right Gear (Non-Negotiables for Traction)

For New England trails, you'll need specialized gear for icy, hard-packed, and deep snow conditions. You cannot rely on boots alone.

• Footwear: You must wear insulated, waterproof hiking boots.

  • If you need new boots, check out my comprehensive guide to The Best Hiking Boots for Any Terrain.

• Traction (Micro-spikes or Crampons): These are often necessary for icy sections and are mandatory on most challenging winter trails. They strap over your boots and provide a grip that saves you from serious falls.

• Flotation (Snowshoes): These are essential after a fresh snowfall to prevent post-holing (falling deep into the snow), which is dangerous and burns unnecessary energy.

• Navigation/Safety: A fully charged headlamp and extra batteries are important in case you get stuck in the dark. Plan for a sunset time much earlier than you think!

3. 🌡️ Know the Conditions (Forecasting is Your Map)

Before you head out, check the weather and trail conditions (e.g., via local park services, mountain forecasts, or hiking forums). Make sure you know what to expect, especially regarding:

• Temperature & Wind Chill: Wind can dramatically drop the effective temperature. A 20°F day can feel like 0°F with a small breeze. Dress for the wind chill, not the temperature alone.

• Avalanche Risk: While rare, certain steeper trails, especially in the White Mountains, can pose a risk. Be aware of local warnings.

• Daylight Hours: Plan your turnaround time to ensure you are off the trail and back at your car well before dark. It takes twice as long to hike in snow conditions.

4. 💧 Stay Hydrated (Don't Forget to Drink)

It’s easy to forget to drink water in cold weather because you don't feel as thirsty, but dehydration still drains your energy and prevents your body from regulating heat effectively, increasing the risk of hypothermia.

• Bring along a water bottle or two.

• Insulation: Insulate your water bottles to prevent freezing, or use a thermos with warm tea. Do not use hydration tubes, as the line will freeze fast!

• I always pack my LifeStraw, a personal water filter that allows me to safely refill my bottles with fresh water from streams and rivers in the backcountry, protecting against bacteria and parasites. This is a game-changer for long winter trips.

5. 📞 Be Prepared (Safety Protocol)

Your preparedness could be the difference between a tough day and an emergency.

• The Plan: Tell someone exactly where you are going and when you plan to return. Give them your exact trail name, parking location, and the color of your outer shell.

• Navigation: Stay on the marked trail to avoid getting lost or injured.

• Emergency: If you do happen to go off trail and cannot retrace your steps: STAY WHERE YOU ARE and CALL EMERGENCY SERVICES to give them your coordinates. Do not move! Conserve your energy; it is vital for your survival.

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Winter hiking in New England can be an exciting experience. With the right preparation and gear, you can enjoy the beauty of the outdoors in a safe and comfortable way. Remember these tips, and you’ll be ready to hit the trails!

What other winter tips would you share with someone?