Author: Aislinn Sarnacki, Bangor Daily News staff

The first snow of the season was a gleaming surprise, sneaking in overnight and covering the scenery with a fluffy white blanket. Then, the next day, it snowed again. It did not melt immediately like the first snow—but lasted for a few days.

Suddenly, I found my ice scraper and snow shovel, which is very important. As a person who likes hiking all year round, I also need to discover all my winter hiking equipment.

Winter hiking is much like hiking in any other season. But in Maine, you need more clothes and equipment to make the activity comfortable and safe.

In order to start this snowy and icy season, I decided to take my dog ​​Juno on a relaxing hike not far from home. My goal is to enjoy a quiet snowy forest. There are no mountain tops or rocky beaches blown by the wind. It's just the woods in winter. 

While preparing for a short hike in a hurry, I suddenly realized that my transition from autumn hike to winter hike might give readers some holiday gift ideas.

It all started with my base layer (also called long pants or long underwear). My first line of defense against the cold, thin pants and long-sleeved shirts are made of Merino wool. They cost a penny, but they are surprisingly warm and durable.

The base layer is like the second skin. They absorb heat and absorb sweat. They are usually made of soft wool or synthetic materials. If you have never invested in a suit, I strongly recommend that you buy it (especially pants). My base layer allows me to wear a lot of autumn hiking clothes in winter because they add a lot of warmth to my clothes.

Dressing for winter hiking is about hierarchy.

On top of my base layer, I am wearing waterproof and windproof pants, thick woolen socks and a woolen jacket, underneath is a thin down jacket. I also wear thin down gloves and a woolen hat.

The forecast is sunny and the maximum temperature is 30 degrees, so I know I don’t need to wear the warmest gear. Bulk gloves, ski jackets and fur-lined hats can be left at home.

In my backpack, I stuffed an extra pair of socks (which can also be used as gloves in a pinch) and a chemical hand warmer (in case my fingers or toes get cold). My backpack already contains the typical safety, first aid and navigation equipment I often carry.

When I reached the front door, I found a pair of ice cleats in the closet to put on my hiking boots. I also put on a pair of leggings, which are waterproof fabric wrapped around the ankles, bridging the gap between the boots and the trousers. They prevent snow from sneaking into the top of your boots and help keep your ankles warm. 

When I first started winter hiking and snowshoeing, I thought the leggings were too much. But over the years, I appreciate them more and more. They do add extra comfort while protecting your ankles and feet. 

The snow is only a few inches deep, so I know I don’t need snowshoes or poles. There will be plenty of time to do this later in the season.

Hiking is everything I hope for: snow, icy, sunny and quiet. I parked my car halfway through the 1-mile gravel path to Branch Lake Public Forest, parked aside, and walked to the parking lot at the end. (This road has not been plowed. I am worried that I will be stuck.)

In the parking lot, we bypassed a closed gate and walked along a tort road, which leads to more than 2.5 miles of marked hiking trails. Looking at the trail map posted at the door (and several intersections), I decided to follow the pine tree trail to the lake ring, which took us to the windy shore of the branch lake.

Based on Juno’s excitement, I think she likes winter more than any other season. I think this makes sense, considering she is half a husky. She kept rolling, rolling in the snow. She also did a lot of digging, rooting around with her nose, and running under the snow-covered branches. I have to keep reminding her that I am on the other end of the belt, not on the sled she needs to pull.

During the walk, I noticed the boot marks and dog prints of at least one tourist. We also found (Juneau smelled) fresh deer trails. We listened to a few tits. But in most cases, there are only trees, snow and us. 

Due to my careful consideration of my clothes and equipment, I was very warm and did not slip on the ice. But if I didn't wear a hat or skates, it would be a different experience.

So if you want to buy gifts for someone who wants to go out this winter, you have many options. Here are some more tips.  

If you are buying a knitted hat, try looking for a hat with a fleece lining to provide extra warmth and wind protection. If the gift recipient’s hands are often cold, please choose insulated gloves and chemical hand warmers. On particularly cold days, a balaclava or neck guard is very suitable for protecting the face.

I don’t worry too much about buying what they already own. I always appreciate extra equipment. In this way, I can share with friends and enjoy a little buddy on the snow trail.