Winter Hiking

Cold weather safety, ice management, and snow hiking with dogs.

6 articles available

Product Reviews

Ruffwear Overcoat Fuse Review: Harness + Jacket

After 200 miles testing the Ruffwear Overcoat Fuse through Colorado winters with Jasper, I learned where convenience wins and where control loses.

By Kelly Lund

Mushers Secret Paw Wax Review: Real Protection?

We tested Musher's Secret on 200+ trail miles with a 95 lb German Shepherd. Here's whether this paw wax actually protects against salt, ice, and hot pavement.

By Kelly Lund

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Stopping Dog Paw Ice Balls (Why Bare Paws Fail in Snow)

Prevent abrasive ice balls from forming between a dog's toes on winter hikes. We break down paw trimming methods, barrier waxes, and on-trail removal.

By Kelly Lund

Building an Emergency Dog Bed (Why Loose Leaves Fail)

Ground contact steals body heat fast. We measured how different natural materials compress under a 95-pound dog to build a trail bed that actually works.

By Kelly Lund

Dog Snow Blindness Symptoms (Why Altitude Changes the Math)

Reflected ultraviolet light off winter snowpack doubles a dog's ocular exposure. Learn the symptoms of acute photokeratitis and how to train for goggles.

By Kelly Lund

Is It Too Cold to Hike With My Dog? The 32-Degree Danger Zone

Short-haired dogs face real danger below 32 degrees. Learn the exact temperature thresholds, early signs of hypothermia, and essential trail gear to keep them safe.

By Sarah Keller