As the temperatures drop and days grow shorter, it’s tempting to settle into cozy indoor routines—curled up with a blanket, a book, and your favorite hot drink. While this sounds delightful, don’t overlook the beauty and adventure of winter hiking. The colder months offer unique opportunities to explore the outdoors in a new light.

Why Try Cold-Weather Hiking? 

Winter hiking has its own charm and benefits, making it well worth the effort: 

  • Unobstructed Views: You can enjoy clearer views of valleys and ridges with fewer leaves. Familiar trails feel fresh with winter’s bare landscapes. 
  • Bug-Free Adventures: Say goodbye to biting insects and hello to peaceful trails. 
  • Magical Snowy Scenery: Snow transforms trails into serene, sparkling wonderlands with a beauty all their own.  With the quality of the winter light and the winter visibility, visiting a familiar summer spot in the off-season might feel like a completely new hike.
  • Comfortable Hiking Temperatures: With proper layering, winter hiking might be more comfortable than sweltering summer treks.
  • Unique Wildlife: Winter birds and animals differ from those you’d encounter in warmer months. 
  • Quiet Solitude: Trails are often less crowded, offering a peaceful escape. 

Cumberland Valley Rail Trail-57

Top Winter Hiking Spots in Cumberland Valley 

Cumberland Valley has no shortage of hiking destinations. And while some spots are better for winter hiking than others, you can hike just about anywhere in the winter that you can in the other seasons. However, if you are not a seasoned hiker, consider the following:

  • Trailheads that offer reasonable parking with easy accessibility to the main roads. You don’t want to head too far into the forest to find a place to park.
  • Trails that are a bit less treacherous. This is subjective, but if ice is on the ground, you are not an all-season hiker by nature, and you don't own a pair of crampons, an easier trail is ideal.
  • Reasonably well-traveled locations ensure better safety because you are assured of meeting other hikers along the trail.

Generic Winter Nature Image

Here are a few beginner-friendly options in Cumberland Valley.

For more advanced hikers, Flat Rock at Colonel Denning State Park, Mt. Holly Marsh Preserve, and the Michaux and Tuscarora State Forests offer challenging terrain with stunning winter views. However, stick to well-marked trails, as navigation can be trickier in snowy conditions. 

Winter Hiking Essentials 

To ensure a safe and enjoyable winter hike, pack these essentials.

1. Clothing & Footwear

Layer up with moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers (like fleece), and a weatherproof outer shell. Avoid cotton and opt for wool or synthetic socks. Don’t forget gloves, a hat, and an extra layer in case of emergencies. An inexpensive emergency poncho will help keep you dry. Also bring sunglasses and chapsitck, and layer on the SPF. All are essential in the winter when there is less shade, and the sun reflects off the snow. You will be wearing some of these items on your body to start, and you may shed layers as you warm up, so have some space in your pack to stow whatever you're not wearing.

Trail runners are not ideal for cold weather as their insulative value is poor. Boots are better for colder temperatures, especially when snow is involved. You can also get crampons to fit over your boots for serious snow hiking. 

2. Navigation and Lighting

Carry a map, compass, or GPS, and pack a small flashlight or headlamp ((several hundred lumens) as winter days are short, and the hike could go longer than expected. If you want to learn more about orienteering, get a compass with a see-through plastic baseplate and a rotating bezel and learn how to use it. This type is far more effective paired up with a map than the kind that looks like an oversized pocketwatch with a flip lid.

3. Food and Water

Bring calorie-dense snacks, such as nuts, cured meats, granola bars, hard cheese, and plenty of water. Even in cold weather, hydration is critical. Err on the side of having too much water (even having some in the car for when you are done hiking). A water filter and purification tablets are generally not necessary for a day hike but are helpful if you plan to replenish the water supply from a creek or stream.

4. Emergency Supplies

Pack a first-aid kit (including blister care items and tweezers), a pocket knife, matches/lighter and a fire starter kit, and an emergency blanket or tarp. 

5. Traction Gear

Wear sturdy boots, and consider crampons or microspikes for icy trails.  Trekking poles are optional, but they provide an added level of balance.

6. Other Suggestions

  • Binoculars for wildlife spotting (and a field guide)
  • Carabiners (for clipping items to your day pack)
  • A backpacking stove (on-trail cooking can add another dimension of fun to your outing)
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Plastic freezer bags are sturdy and help to keep your gear waterproof.
  • Plastic grocery bags are ideal for wrapping up wet socks or trash that doesn’t need to be sealed.
  • Use a small notebook and pencil to jot down ideas, suggestions, and thoughts about your hike.
  • Tarp and 50’ of paracord are helpful for rigging an emergency shelter to wait out a storm.
  • While not generally required in winter, ticks can still be active when temperatures are in the 40s and above. Picardin is a relatively new repellent that is fairly effective against ticks, and you can also treat your clothing with permethrin.
  • Other emergency repair items not noted above include a few feet of duct tape, spare batteries, and a whistle.

Final Tips 

Pine Grove Furnace State Park

Winter hiking requires preparation, but the rewards are immense. Dress appropriately, pack smartly, and stay aware of trail conditions. After a brisk winter hike, you’ll still have time to relax at home with your favorite cozy setup. 

Ready to explore? Cumberland Valley’s trails are waiting, offering the perfect blend of solitude, beauty, and adventure this winter.