Ring in 2026 with fresh tracks and winter air—snowshoeing and winter hiking remain top ways to explore quiet trails and dramatic mountain scenery. This guide covers the best snowshoeing and winter-hiking destinations for 2026, plus the Pike Trail gear (gaiters, trekking poles, waterproof socks, waterproof gloves, and the Pike Trail Pocket Blanket) you’ll want for safe, comfortable trips. Use the linked product pages to shop gear and prepare for every condition.
Why winter hiking and snowshoeing in 2026
- Growing interest in outdoor experiences and low-impact travel makes winter trail seasons prime for quieter parks and better chances of spotting wildlife.
- Advances in lightweight waterproof fabrics and gaiter designs help hikers stay dry and warm without bulk.
- Quick tip: always check avalanche and trail reports before heading out.
Top snowshoeing & winter-hiking destinations for 2026
- Yellowstone National Park, WY/MT/ID
- Highlights: snowy thermal basins, wildlife viewing, groomed winter trails near Mammoth.
- Pike Trail picks: gaiters for thermal protection and waterproof socks to keep feet dry.
- White Mountains, NH
- Highlights: alpine ridgelines, Mt. Washington vistas, hut-to-hut winter routes.
- Pike Trail picks: trekking poles and crampons for icy stability and insulated waterproof gloves for summit winds.
- Glacier National Park (winter access areas), MT
- Highlights: stark winter light and glacial valleys; ideal guided snowshoe trips.
- Pike Trail picks: waterproof socks + gaiters to guard against deep-snow melt and slush.
- Lake Tahoe / Sierra Nevada, CA & NV
- Highlights: high-elevation powder, scenic lake views, maintained snowshoe routes.
- Pike Trail picks: adjustable poles with snow baskets and breathable waterproof gloves.
- Banff & Lake Louise, Alberta (Canadian Rockies)
- Highlights: frozen lakes and well-marked winter trails.
- Pike Trail picks: full winter kit—gaiters, poles, crampons, waterproof socks, insulated gloves and pocket blanket for sitting and taking in the epic view.
- Adirondacks, NY
- Highlights: accessible winter hiking near urban centers; great for day snowshoeing.
- Pike Trail picks: lightweight gaiters and moisture-wicking waterproof socks.
Essential Pike Trail gear checklist (what to bring)
- Pike Trail Gaiters — Protect lower legs and boots from snow, slush, and trail debris. Shop: https://piketrail.com/products/gaiters
- Pike Trail Trekking Poles — Adjustable, lightweight poles with reliable locks and snow baskets. Shop: https://piketrail.com/products/trekking-poles
- Pike Trail Waterproof Socks — Breathable, quick-dry waterproof socks to reduce blisters and keep feet dry. Shop: https://piketrail.com/products/waterproof-socks
- Pike Trail Waterproof Gloves — Insulated, touchscreen-compatible gloves with waterproof membranes. Shop: https://piketrail.com/products/waterproof-gloves
- Pike Trail Pocket Blanket — Lightweight, packable waterproof ground blanket for quick rest stops, lunch breaks, and gear staging on wet or snowy surfaces. Folds to pocket size for easy carry on day trips. Shop: https://piketrail.com/products/pocket-blanket
Packing & layering tips
- Base: moisture-wicking merino or synthetic.
- Mid: fleece or light insulated jacket.
- Shell: waterproof breathable jacket and pants.
- Footwear: insulated winter boots + Pike Trail gaiters + waterproof socks.
- Extras: Pike Trail Pocket Blanket for dry seating/gear staging, balaclava, goggles/sunglasses, microspikes/crampons, headlamp, emergency bivy, navigation tools.
Safety & planning
- Check avalanche forecasts, trail status, and weather.
- Tell someone your route and ETA.
- Bring extra food, water, and warm layers; practice winter navigation.
