The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area offers beautiful hiking conditions during all months of the year. This recreational area is located about 45 minutes from Skytop Lodge depending on the route you choose to take. Many of our guests love to take a day trip to witness the beauty of the mountains up close. If you’re planning on heading out for a hike this winter, here are some tips to help you make the most of your adventure.
Tip #1: Dress in Layers
When you’re hiking in the winter, temperatures can be quite chilly in the morning and warm up in the afternoon. If you’ll be hiking in an area where you don’t have quick access to come back and grab a jacket, then you should dress in layers. For example, on top, you might wear a light long-sleeved shirt with a vest and an insulated jacket. One thing to think about is where each layer will go when you shed it. Bring a backpack or know that you might have a shirt tied around your waist for part of your hike.
Tip #2: Look up, down, and all around
The wonderful thing about hiking in the winter is that because the trees are shedding their leaves, new vistas are revealed that may have been hidden during other seasons. Take advantage of this benefit. Look up every so often. Peer through the trees at the rocks and you might see a stone wall. Wipe away leaves on the trail for clues of past civilizations. Embrace your inner curiosity for an adventurous winter hike.
Tip #3: Check for closed trails
In the winter months, there may be a chance that a hiking trail is closed due to inclement weather conditions. Make sure you check with the National Park Service ahead of time so you don’t show up to a closed trail. Luckily, there are many hiking trails to choose from, so you’ll have many choices.
Tip #4: Start with a warm up trail
In the winter, it’s important to get your body acclimated before you venture out on a longer trail. Do a quick mile or two to make sure you are warm enough, haven’t forgotten anything, and can mentally handle the conditions. If you are eager for more after your warm-up hike then you’re ready to keep going. If not, then you have the option of calling it a day and heading back to Skytop Lodge for more fun.
Tip #5: Bring gear
A winter hike requires more and different gear than a summer hike. If you’re heading out on the Appalachian Trail (28 miles), make sure you bring proper gear. Most expert hikers will bring some, if not all, of the following items on a long winter hike.
The elegance of nature. The luxury of a timeless retreat. An oasis for adventure. We’re here waiting for you to discover the Poconos. Come stay, relax, and explore at Skytop Lodge where we make it easy to reconnect. Book your getaway or call us for more information at (855) 345-7759.