There's something magical about hiking in winter. The crowds thin out, the views transform into glistening wonderlands, and that hot chocolate at the end hits different when you've earned it trudging through snow. But winter hiking isn't just summer hiking with more layers – it requires specific gear, skills, and preparation to stay safe and comfortable when temperatures drop. From traction devices and layering strategies to navigation challenges and daylight management, this guide covers everything you need to know about hitting the trails safely when they're covered in the white stuff.