Every trekking enthusiast has heard their fair share of myths and wild advice about winter treks- what to do, what to avoid, and what’s “absolutely essential”. While some of this guidance might hold true for trekking, most is just plain bogus.
If you plan to hit the hills for a winter adventure this January or February, it’s time to get your facts right about winter trekking, so you can trek confidently and fully enjoy the experience.
This quick read will bust 10 myths about trekking in winter and encourage you to take up a hiking adventure this season.
10 Common Myths about Trekking in Winter Busted
#1: Winter Trekking is not meant for Beginners
One of the most persistent myths is that winter trekking is meant for seasoned trekkers. This couldn’t be more wrong, with thousands of trekkers, including kids, young adults, and senior folks going for winter treks in the Himalayas every year.
While technical treks do require experience, there are plenty of beginner-friendly or moderate trek options available in India. Treks like Kedarkantha, Dayara Bugyal, Chopta Chandrashila, or Nag Tibba are great for first-timers, allowing anyone to experience the joy of trekking in snow.
#2: Cotton Clothing is best for Winter Trekking
Some trekkers opt for cotton layers, thinking they’ll provide warmth. In reality, cotton retains moisture, resulting in rapid heat loss and increasing the risk of hypothermia.
Many experienced trekkers will tell you how wearing cotton can give you chills after walking and sweating for too long. It’s best to choose moisture-wicking synthetic base layers and trekking pants to stay dry and warm.
#3: You can skip Training for a Winter Trek
Some believe that trekking in winter requires no special preparation beyond physical fitness. The truth is your body needs to acclimatize to walking on snow and climbing icy terrains.
So, before heading to the snow, practice trekking on trails with similar challenges, like loose gravel or sand. Strengthening your core and leg muscles with simple exercises like squats or lunges can make a difference.
#4: You don’t Sweat in Winter, so hydration isn’t Important
Many people believe they don’t need to drink much water in cold weather because they don’t sweat as much. This isn’t true at all. The cold can dehydrate you faster than you think, making you dizzy and weak. To avoid this, it’s important to sip water regularly as you walk long trails.
When you are in sub-zero temperatures, not only will you need to stay hydrated, but sipping on warm liquids like soup or tea can recharge your body and keep it warm.
#5: Winter Treks aren’t Scenic and Fun
Another myth is that winter treks lack variety, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Every winter trail offers a unique experience, from snow-covered meadows, frosty peaks, and frozen rivers to serene forest cover and homey villages. Winter treks actually give endless options for adventure seekers.
Like the Kuari Pass trek, trekkers can witness stunning views of peaks like Nanda Devi against the backdrop of white snow, or the Sandakphu trek known for stunning views of Kanchenjunga or the Chadar trek, where trekkers can walk on the frozen Zanskar River, surrounded by mighty cliffs and icy scenery. Even the Everest Base Camp trek, which is likely on every adventurer's bucket list, can be done in winter.
#6: You don’t need Sunscreen and Sunglasses in the Winter
People think that wearing sunscreen or sunglasses is not necessary in the cold. This is a myth- the sun’s rays can be just as harmful in winter, especially with the dryness and the UV radiation reflecting off the snow. Applying SPF and wearing sunglasses protects your skin and eyes from potential damage like sunburn and snow blindness.
#7: Alcohol will warm you up on Winter Treks
A myth familiar among new trekkers- drinking alcohol while trekking can keep you warm in winter. While normally, a sip of something strong might make you feel warmer temporarily, alcohol actually lowers your core body temperature and impairs judgment. It’s best to avoid alcoholic beverages during winter treks.
#8: All Water Sources are Frozen and Inaccessible
Another myth about winter trekking is that finding liquid water is impossible in winter. This is not true. Many water sources may freeze, but mountains have multiple streams and freshwater sources that remain unfrozen.
If you can’t find one, the locals and guides always know the location of such streams which can be used for drinking and refilling bottles.
#9: Falling in Snow won’t hurt you
It’s easy to assume that snow makes falling safer, but icy patches under the snow can cause serious injuries. For such patches, always wear proper gear and climb with the right techniques.
This is especially true for summit treks like Kedarkantha or frozen river treks like Chadar trek, where trekkers often use microspikes and trekking poles to prevent slips and make safer descents.
#10: I can handle the cold, I don’t need so many Layers
Many newbie trekkers think it’s cool to not layer up as they are used to the city cold. But this can only end up ruining the trekking experience. High-altitude cold is very different, and if you are not properly layered up, you can fall sick or get AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness).
To reserve your energy and stay comfortable, always wear insulated base layers, middle layers, and outer shell jackets.
Bust these myths and make this winter a season to remember
If you ever believed any of these myths about winter trekking, we have rightly busted them for you. Once you set them aside and prepare with the right mindset, every trek can be an experience of a lifetime.
Ready to gear up for your next trek? Check out Reccy’s premium range of trekking apparel, perfectly made to keep you warm, safe, and comfortable on your winter adventure.