One of my favorite little traditions in December is slipping away for a quiet hike with my husband. Nothing elaborate — just fresh air, a peaceful trail, and a simple homemade lunch packed into a basket.
There’s something grounding about moving your body gently this time of year. The crunch of leaves under your boots, cold air on your cheeks, and the comfort of knowing something warm is waiting for you halfway through the trail.
I’ve learned that hiking doesn’t need to be complicated to feel special. A few intentional touches — real food, warm drinks, and a little planning — turn an ordinary walk into a memory worth savoring.
Below are the three things I packed for our winter hike: a hearty sandwich, a cozy soup in a thermos, and a festive peppermint hot cocoa to warm our hands along the way.
Rosemary Turkey + Swiss Sandwich on Sourdough
With cranberry mayo and arugula
This sandwich feels like a winter classic — savory, slightly sweet, and sturdy enough to travel well in a basket.
Ingredients
- Sourdough bread, sliced
- Deli turkey (about 4–6 slices per sandwich)
- Swiss cheese slices
- Fresh arugula
- For the cranberry mayo:
- ¼ cup cranberry sauce
- 1–2 tablespoons mayonnaise
Instructions
In a small bowl, stir together the cranberry sauce and mayonnaise until smooth and spreadable.
Lay out your sourdough slices and spread a generous layer of cranberry mayo on one side. Layer with turkey, Swiss cheese, and a handful of arugula. Top with the second slice of bread.
For a warm version, grill the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat until golden and the cheese is melted. If packing for a hike, wrap tightly in parchment paper to keep it fresh and easy to eat on the trail.
Cozy Tomato Basil Soup (Perfect for a Thermos)
A warm thermos of soup is one of my favorite hiking luxuries. It’s comforting, filling, and feels especially nourishing on a cold December day.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
- ¼ cup heavy cream (optional, but lovely)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
Add crushed tomatoes, broth, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes to let the flavors come together.
Blend until smooth using an immersion blender (or carefully blend in batches). Stir in the cream, if using, and heat through. Pour into a pre-warmed thermos so it stays hot for the hike.
Peppermint Hot Cocoa
This is the little festive touch that makes a winter hike feel extra special. It’s cozy, nostalgic, and perfect for sipping from enamel mugs outdoors.
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk (dairy or dairy-free)
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
- Whipped cream or crushed peppermint (optional)
Instructions
Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in cocoa powder and sugar until smooth. Add vanilla and peppermint extract and continue heating until warm but not boiling.
Pour into a thermos to take along on the trail. Serve with whipped cream or a sprinkle of crushed peppermint if you’re feeling festive.
Why I Love Packing a To-Go Basket for Winter Hikes
These kinds of moments remind me that slowing down doesn’t mean doing less — it means doing things with intention. Packing a warm lunch, stepping outside, and sharing it with someone you love is such a simple way to stay connected during a busy season.
If you’ve been craving quieter rhythms this winter, I can’t recommend a cozy hike enough. Bring something warm, dress for the cold, and let it be simple. Sometimes that’s where the sweetest memories are made.
