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Snow Camping and Winter Survival

Photo by Ed Hershberg

The Winter Camping and Survival Course is for both the beginner or more experienced camper who want to extend their outdoor experience to the winter season.  Our primary objective is to show you how much fun winter camping can be and how to stay warm and dry while you are doing it! 

We cover the knowledge and skills required to have an comfortable and enjoyable winter tent camping experience.  Topics include trip planning, equipment selection, camp site selection, setting-up and securing your tent, and constructing a snug and functional cooking area.  We also cover winter survival techniques. 

 

We snowshoe through the forest about three miles to the edge of an alpine lake.  Here we demonstrate the techniques of setting up tents, creating a cozy kitchen and eating area, and a very cool potty. 
Photo by Ed Hershberg
After our snow village is in place, we will practice winter survival techniques, including digging an emergency snow trench.  After a great dinner we'll snuggle into our sleeping bags for a very quiet night's sleep.  After a leisurely breakfast the next morning, we break camp and return to our vehicle.

Price includes instructors, snowshoes and poles, sleds, transportation, tents and kitchen, and meals. 

Call (866) 936-0910 or e-mail us to schedule a trip.

 

 

REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
It is a joy to be out in the snow and be warm and comfortable.  While it’s typically not bitter cold in our snowshoe area, you will enjoy the experience much more if you have the appropriate clothing.  It hurts our heart to see cold, wet people on the mountain who are putting their well-being at risk and having a miserable time.  Ironically, you are more likely to get cold if you first get too warm and end-up with dank, sweaty clothing.  Layering is important, as is having wool or synthetic fiber clothing such as fleece and polypropylene (which dries quickly) rather than cotton (which doesn’t).  When you are moving, you need less insulation because you are generating more heat.  When you stop, put on more layers to keep from getting chilled and uncomfortable. Here’s what you should have with you: 

Clothing
  • Warm snow boots
  • Wool or polypropylene socks with liners
  • Polypropylene or equivalent thermal underwear tops and bottoms
  • Warm sweater, fleece jacket, or wool shirt
  • Warm pants (No Jeans!)
  • Gore-Tex (or other water/wind-resistant material) Parka and Pants
  • Gloves/Mittens with windproof shells
  • Warm hat
  • Gaiters to keep snow out of your boots

Ten Essentials (These are things you should always have with you when venturing out into the backcountry.  However, your guides will have all of these items; so if you plan on staying with the group, not everyone needs to have all of these.)

  • Whistle
  • Map of area
  • Compass
  • Headlamp (with extra batteries and bulb or another light)
  • Extra food and Clothing (wool socks, dry gloves, more warm things)
  • Sunscreen and lip protection
  • Pocket knife
  • Lighter or matches in waterproof container
  • Firestarter
  • First aid kit (Let us know if you require drugs or medicines that will make you drowsy or dizzy.)

OTHER

  • Two and 1/2 Quarts of Fluids
  • Toilet Paper
  • Small insulation pad for sitting on
  • Handkerchief
  • Dark Sunglasses with side shields or Ski Goggles 
  • Camera and film/memory card

 Camping Gear

  • Warm sleeping bag
  • Two sleeping Pads - one inflatable (i.e. Thermorest)and one closed cell
  • Eating utensils - Nonmetal bowl, cup, and spoon
  • Tent booties
  • Crazy Creek Style chair and a book (Optional)
We can rent backpacks and some clothing items.  Please let us know if you wish to rent anything.
 
Equipment Recommendations