Winter Day Walking on the Moors

Hikers tackling a simple off-road day walk across the high North York Moors in Winter need to be prepared for extremes of cold weather.

We experience an average of 50 snow days a year with winter temperatures averaging -1C to 10C.

But it can easily hit -5C to -10C in cold snaps.

If you're just walking in the lower Dales, however, some of this stuff will not be so important.

But a high-fell walkers' kit should be warm, lightweight and as compact as possible.

The High Moors Surrounding Rosedale Can Easily See 2' of Snowfall.  Be Prepared!

To start with, you'll need a 30-40 litre backpack to keep your kit together.

Frameless types are fine for a day-walk; and at this weight.

Since backpacks are never completely waterproof, I'd recommend you have some dry-bags for storing items you want to keep dry.

On the clothing front, you're going to need a stout pair of walking boots with warm socks.  I use synthetic liner socks and wool outer socks to prevent blisters and it works for me; as well as keeping my feet warm and dry.

I always wear gators over trousers during the winter months to keep mud on the outside; and to keep snow out of my boots if the weather is very wintry.

I also pack a pair of waterproof over-trousers which give good protection from rainfall and have negliable weight in the pack.

Hikers on the Rosedale Mineral Railway in February 2014.

I choose Merrino wool underlayer and mid-layer clothing.

I also always wear a woolen jumper as a top layer with a good quality rain and windproof shell to keep the weather on the outside.

I like wool for it's property of keeping me warm even when it gets wet.

I wear a woolen beany style hat and woolen gloves; and for a little luxury a beautiful Cashmier neck scarf.

I also carry woolen mittens for when it's really cold.

All of the clothing can be put on or taken off and stored in quick time as necessary depending on weather conditions and as I warm up or cool down throughout the walk.

Other Stuff You'll Need

+ Plenty of water (at least 2 Ltr);

+  A flask of something hot;

+  A packed lunch, even if you plan a route with a pub lunch (might be closed when you arrive);

+  Maps, Compass, and Guidebooks;

+  Loo roll and trowel;

+  Mobile phone and waterproof case;

+  Pencil head torch;

+  Pocket knife;

+  Plastic whistle;

+  Wet wipes;

+  Trash bag;

+  Camera and binoculars;

+  Wallet with money;

+  Survival  bag (just in case); and

+  Basic First-aid kit.

I haven't mentioned walking poles as these are a personnel preference.

Typical Winter Day in Rosedale on the North York Moors.