Just because it's cold outside now doesn't mean your hiking has to hibernate! Yes, there are a few more steps of preparation to take for winter hiking, but with the quiet of the snowy trails your opportunity of wildlife seeing greatly increases! Let's go over what you would need to know before hitting those snowy trails. First, eat a large breakfast! A Cliff bar on the way sounds convenient enough, but that could easily leave you without enough calories to keep your energized- or warm! As Chris Pieper of Mudd-n-Flood says "Have some more butter on your toast. Saturated fat keeps you warm". Speaking of keeping you warm, the most important thing on your hike is probably layers. With the right combination of layers, they should help keep you dry, keep in heat, and keep out moisture. Starting at the base layer (on your skin) I would suggest wool. It is perfect for thickness and warmth but also for wicking moisture away from your body. A synthetic or silk works, also. Then a warm fleece for holding in your body heat so even when you stop moving you still feel warm. And finally a shell is perfect for the outer layer- one that is waterproof and wind resistant. NOTE- even if you are not predicting an encounter with snow or rain, bring this layer along! You never know when the weather will change on you. And of course don't forget your major heat-escaping areas like the neck, the head, and the hands! Remember your water bottle or CamelBak and you're ready to hit the trails!

And when you're done I bet you'll be ready to get back in the car and drive a few hours home. No? How about after your hike you go straight to your mountain home and sit by the fire? That sounds better! New Mexico Mountain Properties has offices in both the Angel Fire and Taos area and will get you into that dream house in the mountains you wish you had. Call one of our agents today and you'll be on your way to sitting by the fire in your new mountain home.

Information based on The Taos News: Winter Hiking In Taos.