Your Winter Hiking Guide for the Comeraghs & Beyond

We caught up with Mountain Leader April Brophy of Sliabh Hiking, who shared her top five tips for getting outdoors safely and confidently this winter.

Winter may bring colder days, shorter daylight hours, and unpredictable weather — but it also offers some of the most dramatic, peaceful, and rewarding moments on the trails. From crisp frosty mornings to cloud inversions over the Comeraghs, winter hiking has a beauty all of its own.

Whether you’re a beginner or simply easing back into outdoor activity, here are April’s top five tips for making the most of the winter hiking season.

1. Embrace the Cold — but Dress Smart

Staying warm and dry is the key to enjoying winter hiking.

April recommends dressing in three layers:

• A breathable base layer to keep moisture away from your skin
• An insulating mid-layer such as fleece or a light down jacket
• A waterproof and windproof outer layer to protect you from the elements

Footwear is even more important in winter — opt for waterproof boots with good grip to handle muddy or icy sections.

“Winter hiking can be incredible,” says April. “But preparation makes all the difference. The right clothing keeps your day comfortable and safe.”

2. Try These Winter-Friendly Local Walks

For those wanting to stay active over the winter months, April recommends starting with these accessible routes:

• Crough Wood to Mahon Falls: Sheltered forest paths leading to wide-open mountain views — ideal in colder weather.
• Kilclooney Woods: A quiet, protected trail where frost-covered trees and stillness make for a magical winter atmosphere.
• Dunmore Cliff Walk: Perfect on a clear, crisp day when coastal air feels refreshing and energising.

These walks are less exposed than higher mountain routes, making them safer and more enjoyable during winter conditions.

3. Start Early & Respect the Shorter Days

Winter hiking demands good timing. With daylight disappearing early, aim to start your walk early-morning and finish well before sunset.

Essentials to bring include:

• A fully charged phone
• A small power bank
• A headtorch (even for shorter walks — it’s winter!)

Checking the weather before you head out is crucial, as conditions can change quickly on the mountains.

4. Pack Winter Warmers

Nothing makes a winter walk more enjoyable than warm food and drinks.

Pack a flask of:

• Hot tea or coffee
• Soup
• Hot chocolate for a family treat

Snack regularly — the body uses more energy keeping warm in colder temperatures. Nuts, fruit, and sandwiches are perfect winter hiking fuel.

5. Look After the Trails

Wet ground, frost, and increased rainfall can make trails more fragile.

April recommends:

• Sticking to established paths
• Avoiding walking on soft ground edges
• Following Leave No Trace principles
• Closing gates and respecting livestock

“Winter is tough on the landscape,” she explains. “A little care ensures the trails stay beautiful for everyone.”

Final Thoughts

Winter might seem like a challenging season to get outdoors, but with the right preparation, it can be one of the most rewarding times to hike. The Comeraghs and surrounding areas offer peaceful trails, quiet forests, and spectacular scenery — all just waiting to be explored.

Whether you’re building fitness, clearing your head, or simply enjoying time in nature, winter walks are a powerful way to stay grounded and energised during the colder months.

To join guided winter hikes or learn more about hiking safely, visit sliabhhiking.com.