Many trails take months to travel from end to end, leading you to deal with all types of poor weather conditions.
Hiking in high winds can be hazardous, from downed trees and blowing debris and branches. It’s important to know, when is it too windy to be in the woods.
For most, around 25 MPH winds are the limit for hiking while easily keeping balance. However, it is possible to hike in faster winds. You then must begin evaluating wind chill and health issues that could come from heat loss due to bad weather.
In most circumstances, it isn’t a huge concern, but wind speed can become a significant issue with cold temperatures.
Below we can dive more in-depth and provide information on when it is too windy to be in the woods.
Potential Hazards When Hiking in High Winds
Generally, you are safe from high winds when hiking, but there are a few things you should be aware of before heading out:
- Downed trees and branches
- Blowing debris
- Wind chill
First and foremost, it is unsafe to hike if there are downed trees or branches. If possible, find an alternative route. If you cannot find an alternative route, waiting until the wind dies down before continuing is best.
Secondly, blowing debris can be a hazard when hiking in high winds. Again, if possible, try to find an alternative route. If you cannot find an alternative route, be sure to wear proper clothing to protect yourself from the debris.
Lastly, wind chill can be a factor when hiking in strong winds. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather conditions.
When Is It Too Windy to Hike?
So now you may wonder when it is considered too windy to hike. Well, heavy winds like 30 mph with gusts over 50 mph are when things can start getting dangerous when hiking.
If you must hike, pay attention to possible downed trees, limbs, and other flying debris.
Tips for Hiking Safely in Windy Conditions
When hiking in heavy winds, there are a few things you can do to make the experience more enjoyable and safe:
- Wear Proper Clothing – When hiking in windy weather, it is important to wear proper clothing. This includes a hat, gloves, and wind-resistant clothing.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings – When hiking in high winds, always be aware of your surroundings. This means being aware of downed trees, branches, and other flying debris.
- Watch for Downed Trees and Branches – One of the most dangerous things when hiking in high winds is downed trees and branches. If you see a downed tree or branch, avoid it.
- Hike with a Partner – If possible, hike with a partner when hiking in high winds. This way, if something happens, someone will be there to help.
- Find an Alternative Route – If the wind is too high, it is best to find an alternative route. This way, you can avoid any potential hazards.
You need always to consider wind chill and similar health risks when hiking in high winds. If the wind chill is too high, it can cause hypothermia.
How to Identify Dangerous Wind Conditions for Hiking
The wind can cause many problems that can make hiking dangerous to a hiker, not counting the fact that it can easily just blow your feet out from under you.
When the wind is around 30 mph with gusts over 50 mph, it can start to become dangerous when hiking. This is when you need to be aware of potential hazards, such as downed trees, branches, and other flying debris.
At this point, it is also when wind chill becomes a factor. If the wind chill is too high, it can cause hypothermia. So, be sure to dress appropriately for the weather conditions.
What Dangers To Look For With High Winds
There are some dangers to deciding to go out when it is too windy for comfort. You want to make sure that you understand the possible dangers and how to mitigate them as much as possible.
Falling Branches (AKA Widowmakers)
The widowmaker is the most dangerous thing for most when hiking in windy conditions as it is frequently difficult to spot unless you are really scouting the trees above, which is hard when you need to watch the trail underfoot.
A widowmaker is a large tree branch that has broken off the tree but is still partially attached. The telltale sign is the lack of leaves. But when the wind blows, these branches can fall and cause serious injury or death.
To avoid widowmakers, stay aware of your surroundings and watch for any loose branches above you. If you see a loose branch, it is best to avoid the area.
Falling Trees
Much like a widowmaker many diseased trees may be dead and either held via the ground or leaning against another tree and waiting for the right breeze to topple it over.
Falling trees are obviously much more dangerous than falling branches, so you want to avoid any area with a downed tree or suspected possibility of dead trees.
Easier To Lose Footing and Slip or Fall
Wind can cause you to lose footing causing bad and dangerous fall circumstances. Be aware that when the wind is blowing hard, it’s not just the items around you that are being affected but your own balance.
Watch out for slippery and uneven footing when hiking in high winds as you are likelier to slip and fall. If possible, hike with a partner so that someone can help if you do fall.
Hypothermia and Frostbite
Wind chill easily leads to these two dangers when hiking, so be sure to dress appropriately for the conditions. This includes wearing a hat, gloves, and wind-resistant clothing.
You also want to pay attention to hypothermia and frostbite symptoms, which include shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and more. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
Seven Actionable Tips For Hiking In the Wind
When the wind is blowing, it can make hiking more difficult and dangerous. But there are some things that you can do to help mitigate the dangers.
Here are seven tips for hiking in high winds:
Stay Dry
Don’t allow yourself to get wet when hiking in the wind as this will only make you colder and more susceptible to hypothermia.
Dress in Layers
Wear clothing that will protect you from the wind, such as a wind-resistant jacket. But also dress in layers so that you can adjust as needed.
Stay Informed
Understand any weather changes that are inbound and when the best time to hike will be. This way, you can avoid hiking when it is too windy.
Hike With a Partner & Not Alone
If possible, hike with someone so that they can help if you do fall or experience any difficulties.
This can be life-saving should you fall into water or experience a deadfall situation that actually hits you as they can react on your behalf.
Cover Your Fingers and Toes
The small digits have more issues with cold breezes, so keep them covered. This includes wearing gloves and proper hiking boots.
Eat & Drink Regularly
Hiking in any cold weather can sap your energy levels, so be sure to eat and drink regularly. This will help you maintain your body temperature and avoid getting hypothermia.
Choose a Lower Route
If you are heading out, follow lower and less exposed routes. Valleys and other areas offer more wind protection than ridge tops.
Final Thoughts on Hiking Out in Winds
Hiking in high winds can be dangerous if you’re not prepared. Be sure to wear proper clothing and always be aware of your surroundings.
If possible, hike with a partner and follow lower routes when possible. Following these tips can help make your hike a safe and enjoyable experience.
Have any other actionable tips for hiking in high winds? Let us know below!