Winter Walking Tips

Practice Safe Winter Walking Habits

Be safe and be seen! Follow basic safety rules. Look both ways, cross at marked crosswalks, watch for traffic and pay attention to cyclists. Assume drivers can’t see you and proceed with caution on busy streets.

Share the Way. Be mindful of cyclists, runners, and other trail users. Walk on the right, and listen for bells and audible warnings.

Walk with friends or in places where there are other walkers, especially in the early morning and evening hours.

Start slowly and take it easy. Muscles warm up as you go. Adjust your pace for the weather conditions to decrease your chances of straining a muscle or taking a fall.

Make it Fun!

Meet friends at a park or walk site.

Warm your way with a thermos with hot chocolate or cider.

Use the time to learn about how things are different in the winter, such a how the trees look, what the color of grass it, which flowers grow in the cold.

Dress for the Weather

Dress in layers to stay warm. Don’t forget y9our mittens or gloves and a hat. You can lose 35% of your body hear through your head! Watch for icy spots along your route.

Pay extra attention to your feet. Wear warm socks with room for toe wiggling. Lace up walking shoes with plenty of traction.

Wear bright and reflective clothing, and carry a flashlight or other light to stay visible. With fewer daylight hours and cloudy conditions, it is important to wear a high-visibility outer layer.