With winter break quickly approaching, you might be wondering how to spend this special downtime with friends and family.
As a team that’s dedicated to designing gear for the great outdoors in any condition, it’s no surprise we are all about Christmas hiking. Now while this may not be the first thought that comes to mind, we promise there are so many benefits when you decide to brave the bitter cold.
What are the benefits of hiking during Christmas Break?
1. Fewer Crowds at Popular Hiking Trails
Let’s be real. There’s nothing worse than showing up at a trailhead entrance and seeing a packed parking lot. When you pick a popular trail during peak seasons, you might have to be strict with your schedule to beat the crowds. But when you’re hiking during Christmastime? It’s typically not a worry.
With fewer people on the trails, you can take your time as you explore, and you’ll always get the best snapshot of the view at the top.
2. More Work Schedule Flexibility
For most industries, the holiday season is quieter at work.
And without the burden of commuting into the office, or working long overtime hours, you have more freedom. So if you want to go on a hike during the week, or at lunchtime, blocking time on your calendar for Christmas hikes is the way to go. And less stress will help you find more peaceful moments to soak in the view.
Our advice? Leave your work phone at home, or put your smartphone on “Do Not Disturb.” You deserve the downtime!
3. Unique Opportunities To See Wildlife
With fewer people on trails, animals local to your area are more likely to roam freely in their habitats.
And while we will deeply miss the bright fall foliage, once the leaves are gone, there will be more space to see the cloudy winter skies. This also means you can get a better view of an animal that might be hiding far away, like a deer or eagle.
To blend in, we recommend throwing on an earth-toned jacket or sweater.
4. Perfect Settings For Ambitious Adventurers Who Love Snow
If you love cross-country skiing, or wandering through snowy mountain peaks, winter just might be your favorite time of year to hike. If you’re opting for these chilly adventures, we recommend exploring our outdoor apparel line, complete with insulated jackets and sherpa sweaters.
To avoid slipping, be sure to wear durable hiking boots with solid traction. And since blankets of snow tend to be highly reflective, wear a pair of sunglasses on sunny days so you can walk through the trail carefully.
5. You Get To Skip the Gym
With heavier hiking gear, such as puffer jackets or sturdy snow boots, and elevation gain, you will get a high-intensity workout just by wearing more layers. Navigating snowy trails is also a fun mental challenge, as you get to jump over snow piles, or walk carefully through ice patches.
Trust us, all the sweat will make the view all the more worth it. Just wear a moisture-wicking layer, like our Virtue eco pique pullover, underneath so you aren’t uncomfortable.
6. Meaningful Quality Time With Loved Ones
Perhaps the best part about winter break is the opportunity to spend time with people you normally don’t get to see in your daily routines. Whether you’re traveling to see family, or friends are coming into town, bringing the group together for a hike is a great way to catch up.
Pack a picnic for the scenic peak, and have fun discussing the best stories from your year, or chatting about New Year’s resolutions.
The One Thing To Look Forward to After Hiking?
Once you’ve conquered the chilly trails, you should be proud. And sometimes, the best part of the hike is celebrating with a relaxing reward after. Get into your comfy loungewear, make hot chocolate, and enjoy getting takeout or watching a Christmas movie with friends or family.
