Winter hiking in the mountains: ten important tips

Tengrinews.kz — Mountains remain a popular leisure destination for people in Kazakhstan, but many underestimate the risks and head out unprepared. An expert explained how to properly plan a hike and avoid dangerous situations.
Clothing and footwear
According to expert Timur Artyukhin, beginners often make the same mistake — going into the mountains wearing unsuitable shoes and clothing.
About the expert: Timur Artyukhin holds a Master’s degree in Natural Sciences. He is a Master of Sports in orienteering and a multiple prize-winner and champion of national and international competitions in orienteering, skyrunning, and trail running. He has over 25 years of experience in outdoor sports.

“For mountain hikes, trekking boots or trail running shoes are best. The main requirement is a good sole with reliable grip. Urban footwear not designed for such conditions is most often the cause of falls and injuries,” he said.

In winter, it is especially important to choose specialized mountain footwear that protects against moisture while allowing the feet to breathe.
For clothing, a layered approach is recommended: thermal underwear, a fleece jacket, and an outer jacket. It is also worth bringing a hat, gloves, a buff or neck gaiter, and sunglasses.
What to pack
For a one-day hike, a backpack with a capacity of 20–25 liters is sufficient.

“It’s essential to bring a phone, a power bank, and install offline maps in advance. This basic set helps you navigate the route and contact emergency services if needed,” Artyukhin noted.

He also recommends carrying a small personal first-aid kit with bandages, plasters, and personal medications, as well as a thermos with tea, a flashlight, and a pocket knife.
In winter, crampons (ice grips) and trekking poles are very useful, as they significantly make movement on snow and ice easier. Artyukhin also advises taking a thermal emergency blanket.

“When folded, it’s very small and light, but when unfolded it’s a foil blanket that helps protect from bad weather and retain heat. In an emergency, it can be used as an extra layer under a jacket,” he explained.

Choosing a route
According to Artyukhin, beginners should avoid difficult and little-known routes.

“If you’re going into the mountains for the first time, it’s better to choose popular routes where there are always people, such as Kok-Zhailau or Medeu,” he said.

He also emphasized that going on long mountain hikes after heavy snowfall is dangerous. He recommends studying the route in advance and planning the return so that the descent begins no later than midday.
Previously, the head of the Almaty Emergency Situations Department, Damir Yermagambetov, noted that when planning a multi-day route, it is necessary to notify emergency services in advance by calling 112 and providing information to Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Emergency Situations.
Safety rules for mountain hikes
Emergency services also remind hikers to follow basic safety rules:

Do not attempt difficult multi-day routes without a professional guide
Do not try to visit several locations in one day
Stay within visible range and do not deviate from the planned route
Fully charge your phone and power bank
Prepare sufficient supplies of water and food
If you get lost, it is important to stay calm and avoid panic.

If you fall behind your group and cannot contact them:

Try to call emergency services at 112
If possible, send your location
If your coordinates have been sent, do not leave that location

In case of lost communication or a dead phone battery, rescuers will begin the search from the last known location where the coordinates were received.