The Unique Appeal of Winter Camping

    With the mild Utah weather thus far this winter, there may be few days or weekends left for an exhilarating winter camping experience. February is traditionally a good transition month — not bitingly cold but just about right to get outside and watch for signs of spring.

Why Winter Camping Is a Challenge Worth Taking

There are certainly advantages to winter camping — no bugs, snakes, bears, flies, mosquitoes or dust. But even if you would trade bugs for freezing temperatures, consider that winter wilderness beauty is breathtaking — an ever-changing scenario of snow and sky — plus it’s less likely to be crowded.

Essential Tips for Winter Camping Success

   If you like a dash of solitude with your camping, winter camping will practically ensure it. Winter camping also requires a certain fortitude that summer camping does not. Anyone can sleep outside in mild weather. If you like a challenge, then winter camping is for you. It will give you added self-confidence knowing that you can meet the requirements of ingenuity and preparedness this type of outdoor fun requires.

Here are a few reminders for adapting from summer to winter camping: 

  • Ward off hypothermia by drinking lots of water, which replaces the moisture expelled from your body with every breath. In fact, drink more than you think you need — at least a gallon a day. 
  • Put on rain gear at the first sign of a storm. If you do get wet, change out of wet clothing immediately, because the damp will suck heat from the body very quickly. 
  • Pace yourself. Take more time doing tasks — even simple ones — than you normally would. 
  • Help prevent frostbite by following all of the guidelines above plus wearing layers of clothing or, preferably, wearing clothing that has been insulated with polyurethane foam. 
  • Pay attention to how your body feels. If you begin to shiver, do something to warm yourself before numbness and uncontrollable shaking set in. Most hypothermia occurs in wet and windy weather between 30 and 50 degrees F. 
  • Avoid too many starches and sugars in your camp diet. Eat complex carbohydrates instead. 

   Here is an excellent energy snack that’s simple to make: 

Simple Energy Snack: Iron Man Mix Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup raisins
  • 1 cup cubed non-processed cheese
  • 1 cup peanuts
  • 1 cup diced beef jerky

Instructions:

  • Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
  • Pack in an airtight container for an easy, high-energy trail snack