Top Snowy Mountain Trails for Winter Hiking Adventures

Winter hiking on mountain trails is not just about getting from point A to point B. It’s a real battle with the elements: slippery slopes, peculiar light and vast whiteness that transform familiar landscapes into a whole new universe. In such conditions, every kilometre of road feels stronger, and the slightest success gives a special pleasure. In addition to snowmtnhiking.org, we have compiled five outstanding snowy routes that will test your endurance and offer unforgettable views.

Trolltunga Winter Trek, Norway

“Trolltunga” (Troll’s Tongue) is a horizontal cliff protruding above the narrow glacial lake Ringedalsvatnet in the Hardangerfjord fjord in western Norway. The cliff itself is 1,100m above sea level, and the base point – the usual car park at Skjeggedal – is about 300m away.

In winter, the route doesn’t open until late February and remains safe until mid-March, when daylight lasts between 8 and 11 hours: the sun rises around 7:30 and sets around 18:00 local time. There is no artificial lighting on the trail.

The starting point is the plateau at the tourist office in Skjeggedal. From there you climb up a well-maintained forest park road to Mågelitopp, then move on to a stony slope with a steady climb: in the first 5 kilometres the climb is about 600 metres. The elevation gain slows down after the 900 metre mark, and the remaining 6 kilometres are on the top of a plateau with a moderate gradient. The total round-trip length is 22 km, the total elevation gain is about 800-900 m, and the net travel time is between 10 and 12 hours depending on weather and fitness level.

Difficulties and Safety

In winter, the trail is covered with ice and dense snow; there are sections with ruts from powerful avalanche machines. Temperatures can drop to -15 °C and wind gusts of 20-25 m/s on the plateau.

Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Dolomites, Italy

The three majestic walls of Lavaredo set the atmosphere of any trip. The 6-7 kilometre winter circuit around these peaks offers a combination of easy profile and incredible panoramas.

The route starts at Rifugio Auronzo (2,320 metres) and follows a pre-determined path with an altitude difference of about 300 metres. In 3-4 hours you’ll pass the legendary cliffs, and if you’re lucky with the weather, you’ll notice the first rays of sunlight coloring the peaks pink and gold. It’s important to have sunglasses and trekking poles – the snow in the Dolomites glares even when the weather is cloudy, and the soft slope turns into a “skating rink” after frosty nights.

Colden Trail via Avalanche Pass, New York, USA

In upstate New York, in the Adirandack Mountains, is the little-known to the general public but extremely beautiful Colden Trail through Avalanche Pass. The total length of the trail is about 22 kilometres round trip, of which the first section leads through the forest and then the trail enters the alpine meadow at the foot of Colden Mountain.

The elevation difference reaches 700 metres on the ascent to Colden Lake. In winter, there are regular avalanches here, so it is better to climb in the company of a guide and be sure to take an ice axe and crampons. The reward is a clear frozen lake framed by pine trees and abundant deposits of frost that turn the rocks into a Gothic castle. The hike takes 8 to 10 hours, including rest.

Laugavegur Trail, Iceland

The Laugavegur Trail is famous for its colorful mountain slopes, hot springs and glacier fields. In winter it takes on a fairytale appearance: the lava fields are shrouded in snow and the thermal baths in secluded corners seem to float in the frosty air.

The full length is about 34 kilometres from Þórsmörk to Landmannalaugar. The trail is usually divided into three or four stages, with overnight stays in sheltered huts equipped with sunbeds and cookers. The weather in February and March can change every half hour, but the bright sun on the snow creates stunning colour contrasts. It is important to carry a GPS unit and sufficient fuel for heating at night.

Randa Village Trail, Zermatt, Switzerland

For those who want impressions rather than kilometres, the short but scenic route from Randa to Zermatt is the way to go. It’s only 4.7 kilometres and an elevation gain of less than 200 metres, but the views of the Matterhorn are just as impressive as those on the challenging passes.

The trail passes through snow-covered trees, old wooden bridges and cosy alpine shelters. A 1-1.5 hour hike will take you to Zermatt itself, where you can warm up with hot chocolate and enjoy the view of the mountain spire. This route is ideal for a family hike or a relaxing break after the extreme pistes.

Preparing for a Winter Hike

The intensity and danger of winter trails require special preparation. Neglecting the nuances can result in injury or freezing temperatures. Our tips:

• Equipment. Reliable trekking boots with membrane, multi-layer clothing system (thermal underwear, fleece layer, windbreaker/storm jacket), hat, gloves and goggles;
• Special equipment. For extreme trails you will need crampons, ice axe, trekking poles and GPS-navigator or map;
• Weather conditions. Constantly monitor the forecast to avoid sudden snowstorms and strong winds. If the weather is unfavourable, it is better to postpone the trek;
• Accompaniment. Go in a group with a guide, especially on routes where there is danger of avalanches and wild animals;
• Nutrition and hydration. Stock up on high-calorie snacks, hot drinks in a thermos and a minimum of 1.5-2 litres of water per person.

Conclusion

Winter trails are a challenge to nature and yourself, a way to discover the thousands of shades of snow, ice and silence. Trolltunga and Tre Cime di Lavaredo offer vivid panoramas, Colden Trail will give you a sense of pioneering, Laugavegur will immerse you in a fairytale world of volcanic landscapes and Randa Village will be a light and soulful walk. Preparation, respect for the weather and safety will help to fully take in the beauty of the winter mountains and make your trip unforgettable.