The Do's & Don'ts of Snow Hiking in Victorias High Country

The Do’s and Don’ts of Hiking in the Snow in Victoria

Winter has very much hit in Victoria and hiking in the snow can be a magical experience, transforming familiar landscapes into winter wonderlands. In Victoria, regions like the Alpine National Park, Mount Buller, and Mount Hotham offer spectacular snowy trails. However, snow hiking also comes with unique challenges and risks. Here’s a guide of The Do’s and Don’ts of Snow Hiking in Victorias High Country to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable snowy adventure in Victoria.

The Do’s:

Do Check the Weather Forecast:
- Always check the weather forecast before heading out. Snow conditions can change rapidly, and being prepared for unexpected weather is crucial.
Do Dress in Layers:
- Wear moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a waterproof outer layer. This setup helps regulate your body temperature and keeps you dry.
Do Wear Appropriate Footwear:
- Invest in waterproof, insulated hiking boots with good traction. Gaiters or crampon can also help keep snow out of your boots.
Do Bring Navigation Tools:
- Carry a map, compass, and GPS device. Snow can obscure trail markers, making it easy to lose your way.
Do Stay Hydrated and Well-Fed:
- Cold weather can dehydrate you quickly. Bring plenty of water and high-energy snacks to keep your energy levels up.
Do Inform Someone About Your Plans:
- Let someone know your hiking route, expected return time, and emergency contact information. This is vital in case something goes wrong.
Do Carry Essential Gear:
- Pack essentials like a first aid kit, headlamp, extra batteries, emergency shelter, and a multi-tool. Also, consider carrying trekking poles for added stability.
Do Respect the Environment:
- Stick to marked trails to minimise your impact on the environment. Snow-covered landscapes are delicate, and off-trail hiking can damage vegetation and wildlife habitats.
Do Know Your Limits:
- Be honest about your fitness level and experience. Snow hiking is more strenuous than regular hiking, so plan a route that matches your abilities.
Do Learn Basic Snow Safety:
- Understand the basics of avalanche safety and how to recognise potential hazards. In some areas, carrying an avalanche beacon, probe, and shovel is recommended.

The Don’ts:

Don’t Go Unprepared:
- Avoid heading out without proper gear, clothing, and supplies. Preparation is key to safety in snowy conditions.
Don’t Hike Alone If Possible:
- Solo hiking in the snow is risky. Try hike with a companion or group for safety.
Don’t Underestimate the Cold:
- Hypothermia and frostbite are serious risks. Pay attention to your body and take action if you start feeling excessively cold or numb.
Don’t Ignore Trail Signs and Warnings:
- Trail signs and warnings are there for your safety. Ignoring them can lead to dangerous situations.
Don’t Leave Late in the Day:
- Start your hike early to ensure you have plenty of daylight. Hiking in the dark in snowy conditions can be extremely hazardous.
Don’t Forget to Check Your Gear:
- Ensure all your gear is in good working condition before you leave. This includes testing your GPS, checking your headlamp, and ensuring your boots are waterproof.
Don’t Wander Off-Trail:
- It’s easy to get disoriented in the snow. Stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost.
Don’t Neglect Hydration:
- Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean you can skip drinking water. Dehydration can happen quickly in cold weather.
Don’t Panic if You Get Lost:
- If you lose your way, stay calm. Use your navigation tools to try and find your way back to the trail, and if necessary, set up an emergency shelter and wait for help.
Don’t Leave Trash Behind:
- Pack out all your trash to keep the environment pristine. Follow Leave No Trace principles.

Conclusion

Going for a hike in the snow can be an amazing experience and now you have read The Do’s and Don’ts of Snow Hiking in Victorias High Country and you’re eager to explore the high country but prefer not to go alone, join us for our “Come and Try Cross Country Skiing” trip from August 5th-8th. It’s a perfect opportunity to enjoy the winter wonderland with fellow adventurers and experience the beauty of Victoria’s snowy landscapes. Don’t miss out on this exciting and social outdoor adventure!

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