Best Winter Hiking Tours in the USA to Visit in 2024

Planning a winter hiking tour in the USA for 2024 sounds exciting, but you might be wondering: Where do I even begin?

TRAVEL IN THE USA

10/4/20245 min read

person walking on snow covered field during daytime
person walking on snow covered field during daytime

Best Winter Hiking Tours in the USA to Visit in 2024

Planning a winter hiking tour in the USA for 2024 sounds exciting, but you might be wondering: Where do I even begin?

Maybe you're worried about the cold, or you're wondering if it's even safe to hike during winter. Let me tell you, winter hiking in the USA opens up a whole new world of adventure. Snow-covered trails, fewer crowds, and stunning frozen landscapes make it worth the trip.

If you’re like me, you want to find guided winter hikes that fit your experience level, budget, and bucket list. Let's break it down, so you can get out there and enjoy the best winter hiking tours in the USA without the stress.

Top Winter Hiking Destinations in the USA

The first thing you need to know is where to go. The USA is packed with incredible winter hiking spots, and trust me, there’s something for everyone.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone in the winter is unreal. Think snow-covered forests, frozen waterfalls, and bison walking through the snow like it's no big deal. You can even catch a guided snowshoe tour if you want something easy.

- Best Trails: Upper Geyser Basin, Fairy Falls Trail

- Who Should Go: Families, couples, or solo adventurers who love the quiet and serenity of winter.

Zion National Park

Zion gets way fewer visitors in winter, which means more space for you. If you've ever wanted to see the iconic red rocks dusted with snow, this is the spot. Plus, it's warmer here than other places, so you won’t freeze.

- Best Trails: Angels Landing (if you're brave), Observation Point, Emerald Pools

- Who Should Go: Hikers in their 30s to 50s looking for an unforgettable winter hike.

Mount Rainier, Washington

Mount Rainier offers breathtaking views in the winter. It's also got a lot of ranger-led snowshoe hikes that are perfect if you're new to winter hiking.

- Best Trails: Paradise Snowshoe Walk, Nisqually Vista Trail

- Who Should Go: Families or solo hikers looking for a guided experience in the mountains.

What to Expect on a Winter Hiking Tour

You might be wondering, what does a winter hiking tour even look like? Here’s what you should know.

Guided Tours

Most winter hiking tours are led by expert guides who know the trails like the back of their hand. They'll provide you with gear recommendations and help you stay safe on icy paths. Expect hikes to range from easy walks to more challenging snowshoe treks.

- Tip: If you're traveling solo, a guided tour can help you feel safer and more prepared.

Difficulty Levels

Winter hikes come in all levels, from easy family-friendly walks to hardcore backcountry trails. For example, the Observation Point hike in Zion can be a tough one in the snow, but the Emerald Pools trail is perfect if you’re just starting out.

- Beginner Hikes: Flat, well-maintained trails like the Fairy Falls Trail in Yellowstone.

- Advanced Hikes: Steeper, more challenging trails like Angels Landing or Ice Age Trail in Wisconsin.

"Pack your gear, book your Hotel, and get ready for a winter adventure like no other."

Best Winter Hiking Tours for 2024

Finding the right tour can feel overwhelming, especially when you're staring at a dozen options. But I’ve done the homework for you. Here are some of the best winter hiking tours in the USA for 2024.

REI Adventure Tours

REI is known for their well-organized guided tours across the USA. They offer small group winter hiking trips that focus on safety and fun.

- Top Picks: Snowshoeing in Mount Rainier or a backcountry trip in Utah’s Bryce Canyon.

- Who’s It For: Over 30s who want a balance of adventure and comfort.

Wildland Trekking

If you’re looking for something more intense, Wildland Trekking has multi-day winter hiking tours in national parks like Yellowstone and Zion. These tours often include snowshoeing and even backcountry skiing.

- Top Picks: Winter hikes in Grand Canyon's North Rim or Appalachian Trail.

- Who’s It For: Adventurous types in their 40s or 50s who want to really challenge themselves.

G Adventures

G Adventures is known for budget-friendly trips, but their winter hiking tours don’t cut corners on experience. They have a great winter tour in Alaska that includes dog sledding and a chance to see the Northern Lights.

- Top Picks: Alaska's Denali National Park or a snowshoeing adventure in Vermont.

- Who’s It For: Families or couples looking for a more laid-back winter experience.

Must-Have Gear for Winter Hiking

You can't just grab your summer hiking boots and call it a day when you’re heading out on a winter hike. You need gear that’s going to keep you safe and warm.

Here’s what I never leave home without:

- Insulated Boots: Your feet are going to get cold if you don’t have the right boots. Go for something like Columbia’s waterproof snow boots or Salomon hiking boots.

- Crampons or Microspikes: If you're hiking on icy trails, crampons or microspikes are non-negotiable. Trust me, they’ll save you from slipping on ice.

- Thermal Layers: A good base layer and mid-layer will keep you warm. I usually go for Patagonia thermal wear and a down jacket from North Face.

- Waterproof Backpack: Snow can ruin your stuff if you don’t have a waterproof backpack. Look for something sturdy like the Osprey Rook 65.

- Snowshoes: For some hikes, especially in places like Mount Rainier, you’ll need snowshoes.

- Pro Tip: Check with your tour guide; they often provide gear like snowshoes and trekking poles.

Planning Your Winter Adventure in 2024

So now you’re ready to hit the trails, but how do you actually plan a winter hiking adventure? Let me give you some simple steps.

- Book Early: Winter tours fill up fast, especially for popular spots like Zion or Yellowstone.

- Check Weather Reports: Always check the forecast before heading out. Conditions can change quickly in winter.

- Get Travel Insurance: Winter hiking can come with extra risks. I recommend World Nomads for travel insurance that covers adventure sports.

- Accommodation Options: Most winter hikers base themselves in nearby cities or lodges. Places like Denver, Salt Lake City, and Anchorage offer great options for pre- and post-hike stays.

You’re all set! The best winter hiking tours in the USA to visit in 2024 are waiting for you.

"Pack your gear, book your tour, and get ready for a winter adventure like no other."
3 people standing on rocky mountain during daytime
3 people standing on rocky mountain during daytime

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