Solo Hiking Through A Winter Wonderland

It was January 2, the new year had barely begun, and Skövde lay under a thick, glistening blanket of snow—a stark contrast to the unusually snowless start of this year’s winter. Most of my friends were still away for the holidays, and I had just returned from a 10-day trip myself, feeling the post-vacation blues. But the heavy snowfall brought with it an irresistible call to adventure.

Ever since I arrived in Sweden, I’ve always wanted to explore nature in the thick snow. Living in Skövde makes that dream easily attainable, thanks to Billingen—a calming nature reserve just a short hop from the city center. In fact, Skövde’s proximity to nature was one of the key reasons I chose to study here.

I’ve been to Billingen in the peak of summer, when the trails are lush and green, and in autumn, when the leaves blanket the ground in shades of orange and gold. But my goal had always been to see it as a winter wonderland, covered in snow. And on this rare bright and sunny day, with temperatures dipping around -6°C, I decided it was finally time to chase that vision. What could go wrong?

About Billingen

Billingen is a gem for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, drawing visitors from all over the Västra Götaland region. It’s not just a nature reserve; it’s a year-round hub for activities that cater to every season. In the summer, it’s a haven for mountain biking, fishing, and kayaking, with trails and serene lakes that offer endless adventures. But in winter, Billingen transforms into a mini ski resort, complete with groomed cross-country skiing trails and even a small slope for downhill skiing, making it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.

Getting to Billingen is incredibly easy. There are direct buses from Skövde Resecentrum, and it’s just a short ride before you’re surrounded by nature. I visit at least once a month—it’s my go-to place to escape the hustle of student life and recharge in the fresh air.

Packing Essential for a Winter Hike

Packing smart is key for any hike, but it’s especially important when you’re heading out solo in snowy conditions. The right gear can make or break your experience. For starters, winter boots with solid grip are non-negotiable—you don’t want to spend the day slipping and sliding on icy trails. Layer up with thermals under your clothes to stay warm without your body burning extra energy.

Make sure you’ve got these essentials:

• Gloves to keep your hands warm.
• A cozy hat to trap heat.
• A thick scarf to protect your neck and face.
• Sunglasses for sunny days with snow glare.

Food and drinks are just as important. Here’s what I brought along for my hike:

• A medium-sized water bottle to stay hydrated.
• A flask of hot coffee—because nothing beats sipping something warm in the cold.
• A banana (my go-to snack for a quick energy boost).
• Chocolates and a Snickers bar for a sugary pick-me-up.

Don’t forget to pack these practical extras:

• A fully charged phone for navigation and emergencies.
• Basic first aid essentials, like painkillers and bandages for small wounds.
• Tissues for any quick cleanups or sniffles in the cold.

Pro tip: Eat before you start the hike, but don’t overdo it—you’ll regret it once you start moving. I also tossed in my earbuds for some music and made sure to carry my ID, just in case.

Packing thoughtfully means you can focus on enjoying the snowy trails without any unnecessary hiccups.

Solo Hiking vs. Group Hiking

I’ve been on plenty of hikes with friends, and they’re always a lot of fun. Group hiking is a great way to connect with people, whether you’re strengthening old friendships or making new ones. There’s something special about sharing those moments—laughing, chatting, and taking in the beauty of nature together.

But there’s something about solo hiking that I’ve always wanted to experience, and it definitely didn’t disappoint. It’s a whole different vibe. Being alone, in the quiet, letting nature surround you—it’s a peaceful kind of magic. It gives you a chance to reflect and recharge in a way that’s hard to explain.

That being said, safety should always come first. If you’re hiking solo, make sure someone knows where you’re going and what your plans are. Sharing your live location with someone close to you is a good idea—not just for their peace of mind, but for yours too. With the right precautions, solo hiking can be just as rewarding as hiking with a group.

Should You Listen to Music on a Hike?

This really depends on the person. For some, music can be the perfect motivator, keeping you energized when you’re starting to feel tired. My hike was around 4 hours in total, with a slight elevation gain, but nothing too steep. I decided to listen to some music on the way up, during the 40-minute walk from the city center to Billingen. But once I entered the nature reserve, I took out my earbuds and let the sounds of nature take over.

There’s something truly calming about the sound of the wind rustling through the trees, the gentle ripple of almost frozen streams along the path, and the soft lapping of waves on the lake.

 On my way up, I had one of my favorite albums, Ludovico Einaudi’s Seven Days Walking. The album is a journey through Einaudi’s own experience hiking the Alps for seven days, capturing the way different moments of the day feel in different conditions. It’s a peaceful collection, totaling six hours of music—perfect to accompany the beginning of my hike.

The Perfect Pre-Exam Detox

With three exams coming up from January 10th to 14th, the end-of-semester stress is definitely here. I’ve been feeling the pressure building up, and this solo hike to Billingen couldn’t have come at a better time. It was the perfect way to unwind and clear my head before diving into study mode.

The peacefulness of being out in nature—just focusing on the sound of the wind, the crunch of snow underfoot, and the solitude—was exactly the calm I needed. It gave me the mental space to relax and recharge. Sometimes, you don’t realize how beneficial a bit of quiet time can be for your focus and clarity until you experience it. Now, I’m feeling more centered and ready to tackle those exams.

Post-Hike Thoughts

Sweden’s stunning nature and easy access to outdoor adventures make it the perfect place to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. This snowy hike to Billingen wasn’t just a journey through a winter wonderland—it was a reminder of how living here encourages you to embrace nature in all its beauty. If you ever get the chance, grab your boots, layer up, and head out; you won’t regret it. These moments are what make Sweden truly unforgettable.