Let's talk (briefly) about hiking in unexpected falling snow (Patreon)

You've all seen the photos from my hike last week, where the forecast for rain became 2+ inches of snow. When you see those flakes starting to fall, here's what to consider: 

What is your normal cold tolerance? Keep in touch with your body, and keep your expectations realistic. 

How are you dressed? This should be a no-brainer, but in my experience, sometimes we do occasionally forget to use that organ. Winning outfits include shoes with good tread, minimal cotton (no cotton socks), some kind of hat or hood, and a waterproof layer on top of it all. If you don't have all that on, or stowed in your backpack, consider turning back. 

On that note, do you have a second set of cozy clothes waiting in the car? If not, and the snow/rain/sleet soaks you, do you really want to drive home in freezing wet clothing? 

What is your body telling you? Do you feel numbness in your hands and feet? How about your face? Early symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, clumsiness, numb hands, pale/greyish skin, clumsiness, and apathy. Be aware of what you're feeling, and turn back before these symptoms get worse. 

Are you familiar with the trail? Enough to the point that you could find your way back to trailhead without seeing the dirt path, or following your footprints? In an hour or two, your footprints may have filled in, plants may bow under the weight of the snow and hide the trail from you, and the dirt tread of the trail might be hidden. Depending on the terrain and trail conditions, a map might not be enough to guide you back if you can't clearly see the trail. 

What condition is the trail in? Is it a smooth, wide grade, easy to walk on? Or is it full of roots and ruts that might trip you up if they're hiding under snow? Could those shallow puddles turn into treacherous sheets of ice on your way back down? Is the trail clear of brush, or is it already pretty overgrown? How steep is it, and if you slip off the edge, will you land in brushy plants or at the bottom of a cliff? 

Does anyone know where you are? I know it feels morbid to think about, but if you don't get home tonight, will anyone besides your pets notice? Do they know where to start looking for you, if they do notice? Before hiking, let someone know where you're hiking and when you'll be home, and be as specific as you can. As a precaution, tell them who you'd like them to call if you don't come back, whether that's your mom, your friend who works with search and rescue, or 911. 

Have anything to add? Please drop a comment, or shoot me a message! Let's all stay safe and alive this winter!