Happy trails!

If you're a newcomer to Colorado, you may not have had a chance to experience the state's quality winter hiking yet. There's a reason why all the "native" Coloradans are crazy for winter sports: they're a way to both enjoy some quality workouts while also savoring all of the unique, snowy beauty the state has to offer.

Winter hiking, in particular, is a great outdoor activity because it comes with tons of flexibility. Whether it's a snowy afternoon stroll down a Denver park or a full-on mountaineering expedition, Colorado's countless trails offer hikers plenty of attractive options for going outdoors.

Just because hiking lacks the moment-to-moment adrenaline of other winter sports, like skiing and snowboarding, doesn't mean it can't be dangerous, however. As any Coloradan can tell you, the temperature changes significantly once the sun starts to go down, and that's before you factor in the myriad of ways in which Colorado weather can whiplash from "cozy" to "chaotic."

We've prepared a quick checklist to consult ahead of any winter hikes! Let's take a look!

First Thing's First: Warm Layers

Once you've spent enough time on the Colorado trails, you come to appreciate how important it is to dress in layers. Temperatures can shift pretty rapidly, meaning you could be enjoying a crisp 75° stroll one moment and hiding from a blizzard during the next. As a result, it's a good idea to make sure you pack multiple warm layers so you can adjust as the situation demands. It might sound obvious, but make sure these layers are pieces of clothing you can wear all at once if the weather drops too cold—every hiker has a story about that newbie who brought three different coats and could only wear one at a time.

Compression Socks Are a Game-Changer

If you plan to do any amount of hiking—especially in the cold—then good compression socks can completely transform the way your legs feel when you're on the trail. These socks stimulate blood flow to the legs by applying constant pressure, which is especially valuable during the winter. The increase in circulation means you'll feel a noticeable spring in your step. As an added bonus, your legs will handle the cold better! When buying compression socks, it's a good idea to spring for medical-quality ones instead of simply shopping from the supermarket. For instance, we got ours from the American Vein & Vascular Institute, and we haven't looked back since!

Don't Forget Sunglasses!

While the winter might not be as sunny as a Colorado summer, it's actually extra important to grab those sunglasses once the snow starts! Fresh snow reflects light, meaning walking through the snow is actually harsher on your eyes than most other forms of weather. Skip the eye strain and make sure you've got a good pair of protective sunglasses in your trail kit, especially if you plan to hike at high altitudes.

Sunscreen Too!

It's easy to forget the sunscreen if it's cold outside. After all, it if doesn't feel sunny outside, why should you need sunscreen? That just feels unfair. Like we just mentioned, sun exposure actually gets more intense in fresh snow, so there's still a risk of getting sunburnt on your winter walk. This is especially important at higher altitudes—the thinner air means you can get sunburns on unprotected skin in a matter of minutes. 

Finally: Snacks!

No points for guessing why this is our favorite part of the checklist. If you plan to spend any amount of time on the trail, it's a good idea to carry some sort of snack food that you can use to recharge in case of an emergency. While you may only be planning for a light hike, there are plenty of weather factors that can keep you on the trail longer than expected. This is why it's always a good idea to bring something to eat in order to keep your energy up. (It's not like there's a penalty for accidentally buying too many snacks either.) After all, you can always eat them in the car as a reward for a successful winter hike!

What are some of your winter hike must-haves? Sound off in the comments!