Winter hiking is not only good for your health, it allows you to experience nature at close quarters. There are a few important things to bear in mind, however, to ensure your safety while out and about in alpine terrain. Careful planning and appropriate equipment are essential for every winter hike. Follow the recommended rules of conduct and you will be able to enjoy your winter adventure to the fullest. Read on for an overview of all the important safety tips.
Plan your tour in advance – is the route suitable for my physical ability?
Take account of temperatures and the weather forecast when planning your tour.
Schedule your tour so that you don't end up walking in the dark, as the days are shorter and nights are longer in winter.
Familiarise yourself in advance with the topic of orientation and avalanche risk.
Winter hiking trails are easy to walk on in principle, but they do require a certain
sure-footedness on snow, which can typically have different characteristics depending on the weather and time of day (powder snow, firn, crust, slush, etc.). Especially in late winter/early spring, the changing snow conditions depending on the time of day must be taken into account (icy in the morning, slushy in the afternoon).
Sturdy shoes with a good tread. Note on footwear: depending on the snow conditions and composition, different footwear may be required. It is the responsibility of each winter hiker to determine which footwear is suitable.
The use of spikes is recommended.
Winter hikers are also welcome to use snowshoes on winter hiking trails if they wish, even though these are usually used as an aid for getting around in ungroomed terrain.
Appropriate clothing for winter temperatures (warm, breathable, etc.)
Food and drink
First-aid kit
Fully charged mobile phone
Hiking map and and relevant literature
Sun protection (sun glasses, sunscreen and hat)
Telescopic poles
Do not leave the marked winter hiking trails (winter alpine hazards)
Do not feed wild animals and avoid disturbing their habitats
Take a thermos flask of warm tea and snacks
Clean up any dog excrement (including from snow-covered fields and paths)
Emergency Phone Numbers
140 - Mountain Rescue - Alpine emergency hotline
112 - European emergency hotline (functions with any mobile phone and in every available network)
No phone network
No emergency call is possible out of network range or in radio dead spots. Move to a better location and dial 112 regularly.
Euro emergency call: access to any available network when, after turning the phone on, 112 is dialled instead of the PIN code, or by using the emergency call function.
Reporting an accident
Who is reporting the incident / callback number?
Where exactly did the accident occur?
What happened?
How many people are injured?
General Hiking Recommendations
The following recommendations from various Alpine Associations are aimed at helping you to enjoy safe and enjoyable hikes in the mountains.
Good physical fitness & a realistic idea of one’s own limits
Careful planning
Fully and appropriately equipped
Suitable footwear
Sure-footedness
Stay on marked trails
Regular breaks
Responsibility for children
Small groups
Respect for nature and the environment
Tyrolean Mountain Rescue App
The Tyrolean Mountain Rescue emergency app helps you make an emergency call and simultaneously transmits your precise location.
Download the free"SOS EU ALP" app now!
Winter hiking in Zillertal
