The Best Winter Hiking Destinations in Europe
If you’ve ever headed for the peaks on a crisp winter morning and felt the crunch of fresh snow underfoot, you’ll know there’s something magical about hiking in the colder monhs. The air is sharp, the landscapes are quiet, and everything feels a little more alive — winter takes hiking to a whole new level.
Whether you’re an experienced trekker or just looking to try something new, Europe has plenty of winter hiking destinations to inspire your next adventure. From the rugged Cairngorms in Scotland to Slovakia’s spectacular High Tatras, here are some of the best trails to explore this season.
Scotland: Winter Hiking Across the Cairngorms
The Cairngorms National Park in Scotland offers some of the most rewarding winter hikes in the UK. Known for its expansive plateaus and dramatic mountain peaks, the region is a must-visit for hikers seeking both challenge and beauty.
Top hikes in the Cairngorms:
Ben Macdui Summit: As Scotland’s second-highest peak, this hike is a true winter adventure. The trail takes you through a vast, snowy plateau with incredible views of the surrounding mountains.
Cairn Gorm Mountain Loop: A popular route for winter hikers, this trail features well-marked paths leading to the summit of Cairngorm Mountain. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of the snow-covered landscape.
Ryvoan Pass and Green Loch: For a gentler winter hike, this trail leads to the striking Green Loch, its unique color contrasting beautifully with the snowy surroundings.
Hiking tips for the Cairngorms:
Be prepared for rapidly changing weather and carry essential winter hiking gear, including crampons, insulated clothing, and navigation tools.
Check trail conditions and consider hiring a guide for more challenging routes in the snow-covered Cairngorms.
Slovakia: Winter Hiking in the High Tatras
The High Tatras, a compact yet dramatic mountain range, are a treasure trove of winter hiking opportunities. With snow-blanketed trails and breathtaking peaks, the region offers hikes suitable for various skill levels.
Top hikes in the High Tatras:
Green Lake (Zelené pleso): This moderate hike leads to a stunning glacial lake surrounded by towering peaks. The snow-covered landscape adds a layer of tranquility to the experience.
Zamkovského Hut: A scenic trail that combines forested paths with open vistas, ending at a cozy mountain hut where hikers can rest and enjoy the views.
Rysy Summit: For more experienced hikers, this challenging trail takes you to the highest peak in Poland (bordering Slovakia). The effort is rewarded with incredible panoramic views of the Tatras and surrounding snowy valleys.
Hiking tips for the High Tatras:
Use crampons or snowshoes for traction on icy trails in the High Tatras.
Start early to make the most of limited daylight hours during winter hiking.
Other top winter hiking destinations in Europe
While Scotland and Slovakia are standout destinations, Europe boasts many other incredible winter hiking locations worth exploring:
Norway: Romsdalen Valley
Top hike: The Litlefjellet trail offers awe-inspiring views of the Romsdalshorn and Vengetind mountains, framed by snowy fjords. This Nordic winter hiking experience is perfect for snow enthusiasts.
Switzerland: Jungfrau Region
Top hike: The Lauterbrunnen to Mürren trail combines charming villages with stunning alpine scenery, all blanketed in snow. Winter hikes in the Swiss Alps are known for their beauty and accessibility.
Austria: Tyrolean Alps
Top hike: The Leutasch Valley trail provides a mix of forested paths and open meadows, perfect for beginners and families exploring Austria’s snowy trails.
Why Winter Hiking?
Winter hiking offers a unique way to experience the outdoors. The crisp air, the glittering snow, and the serene silence create an otherworldly experience. Each step on the snow feels grounding, amplifying your connection with nature and the present moment. Popular winter hiking trails often feature fewer crowds, ensuring you’ll have these breathtaking European landscapes mostly to yourself.
Plan Your Winter Adventure
Whether you’re tackling the peaks of Scotland’s Cairngorms, exploring Slovakia’s High Tatras, or venturing into other parts of Europe, winter is the best time to soak up the beauty of the mountains — crisp mornings, quiet trails and unbeatable sunrises. Plus, as the sun doesn’t rise until much later than in the summer months, it’s the perfect time of year to get up early and watch the sun rear its head over the mountains.
Of course, having the right kit is essential for exploring the mountains in all seasons — but especially winter. So before heading out, make sure you gear up with insulated clothing, sturdy boots, and proper navigation tools so you’re ready to embrace the cold. And enjoy!
