Clothing System for Winter Hikes in Southern Wisconsin

The information and video featured in this post show my layered clothing system for winter hikes in Southern Wisconsin. Footage was shot along various segments of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail (IAT). Warmer clothing than shown here is required for camping or extended periods time in the outdoors, this clothing system is what I wear for active winter day hikes.

Footwear for Icy Winter Hiking

So many choices, where to begin when selecting footwear for winter hiking? Consideration of the terrain and weather conditions take priority. Lately I've been section hiking the Ice Age National Scenic Trail (IAT) in Southern Wisconsin. Icy hills, temperatures between 0°F(-18°C) and 32°F(0°C), and hard-packed ice with snow (typically of less than 6 inches / 15 cm deep) comprise the main considerations when day hiking the IAT in this area. 

Connecting Route from the Verona Segment to the Montrose Segment of the Ice Age Trail

Snow flurries greeted me as I began to walk the connecting route between the Verona and Montrose Segments of the Ice Age Trail. Although the traffic roars on County Road Pb, the remainder of the walk proved pleasant with little traffic. After parking at the Prairie Moraine County Park on Wesner Lane just off County Road Pb, I walked south on County Road Pb, east on Sunset Drive, south on Borchert Road, and east on Purcell Road to the Badger State Trail. This road walk ranks an easy 2.9 miles (4.7 km), 5.8 miles (9.3 km)  considering of the walk back to the car.

What to Wear for Winter Day Hikes in Wisconsin

Winter day hikes allow us to enjoy beauty and solitude. Quiet stillness, snow on the pines, and pristine blankets of snow surround us. There is no slogging through mud, there are no ticks or mosquitoes! But it's cold if we don't dress warm enough for conditions. If we overdress, our sweat will lead to extreme cold when we stop hiking.

Yaktrax for the Casual Hiker Updated

I love to wear my waterproof trail runners for as many months of the year as possible. Their comfort can't be beat. They keep my feet as warm as boots, perhaps because they're waterproof. Unfortunately, they quickly lose traction on hard packed ice and snow.

Hiking During Hunting Season

Planning to take a hike? With hunting season upon us, hiker safety becomes more important than ever. For starters, I take the following four precautions.

Footwear for Kids (& Yourself) for Three-Season Hiking, Backpacking and Camping Adventures

Salomon XA Comp 7 Trail Runners.

The fun and excitement takes a backseat to getting warm and comfy once a chill sets in. Cold, wet feet easily chill the body. Hence, my vigilant search for proper footwear. I've finally settled on my three-season ensemble.

How to Dress Kids (& Yourself) in Layers for Three-Season Hiking, Backpacking, and Camping Adventures

Family outings, even in the rain or cold, can be fun and exciting with proper preparation. That said, rainy or cold family outings offer potential misery with inappropriate clothing. Light weight, quick-drying items amenable to layering that pack compactly make for comfortable three-season outdoor adventures (32°F/0°C and above).