San Diego is known for its mild weather and year-round sunshine, but when the winter season comes, it’s prime hiking season. Hiking trails in southern California tend to be hot, dusty, and lacking in shade. This is why hiking in the winter is ideal, as the mild temperatures make the lack of shade and desert environments enjoyable and safer for hiking. I’ve explored many hiking trails in San Diego, but I will share my favorite hikes for the winter season.

Hiking in the winter can be intimidating, and knowing what to wear to stay warm and safe can be tricky. If you’ve ever felt unsure about what to wear, this post is for you. I will review layering basics and share some recommendations and inspiration for cute winter hiking clothes.

Hiking in the winter may seem like a daunting task, but with these top tips anyone can get out and enjoy a hike. From safety tips to what to pack, this is a great place to get started into winter hiking.