Winter in the North Country might be one of the most strikingly beautiful and serene times of the year. The landscape is covered with snow, waterfalls and rivers are transformed into glistening frozen sculptures, and the quiet of it all is something to behold. And while there may be a few more hurdles than in the summer, winter is a wonderful time to get outside and play – as long as proper preparations are made.
With a few extra steps (and layers), winter recreation might just become your new favorite time of year to enjoy the great outdoors. Follow these rules to help you make good choices, keep warm, and stay safe and happy when the weather gets cold.
Always Hike/Bike/Ski with a Partner
Even though it’s not fun to think about, things can go very wrong out there. And when they do, your best defense against an adventure-gone-wrong is having a partner with you. Mistakes happen all the time (missing a trail marker, losing a warm layer, forgetting to pack enough food, etc.), and having an experienced partner can make all the difference.
Also, be sure to let folks back home know where you’re going (and when!). If something goes wrong and you don’t get back in time, they’ll know to alert the authorities.
Get the Gear
Investing in quality gear can mean the difference between a magical or miserable adventure. While spending a ton of money isn’t necessary (secondhand and consignment gear is a great option!), it IS essential to make sure your gear is high quality. A well-fitting, lightweight backpack to carry your gear and enough food and water is key, as well as warm, well-built hiking boots. Other essentials are a warm jacket, mittens or gloves, and a warm hat. Packing your water in an insulated container will keep it from freezing and carrying a small camp stove and water pot is always a good idea. Lastly, an emergency blanket is a lightweight extra that can be extremely helpful if you ever find yourself in a (very cold) pinch.
Layers, Layers, and More Layers
The key to staying warm in winter is layers, and layering those layers properly. When you’re moving around outside on a wintery adventure, chances are you’ll start sweating, and the last thing you want to do is get wet to the point where you can’t get dry (the perfect combination for hypothermia!). That in mind, layers are key. Always begin with a light, wicking layer as your base, and add on warmer layers from there. Top it off with a warm, winter jacket and/or breathable shell, and you’ll be good to go! Don’t forget about your legs, too. Long underwear with snow pants and/or breathable shells are great options for your bottom half. As you begin to move and get warm, adjust your layers accordingly by taking off the outer ones, ensuring that you don’t sweat through your warmest ones. When you stop moving, layer back up!
And, you’ve heard it before, and you’ll hear it again: Cotton is THE WORST. Wearing cotton layers in the winter while doing any kind of sweat-inducing activity is a surefire recipe for hypothermia. To avoid potentially harmful chills and frostbite, never wear any cotton, anywhere! Some excellent alternatives are wool, poly blends, fleece and other synthetic materials that will keep your body warm while wicking moisture away from your skin. Staying dry is key, but if you do happen to sweat a bit, these fabrics will keep your body warm and well insulated.
Plan for the Best, Prepare for the Worst
Even if you’re a pro and you know the trail like the back of your hand, always prepare for the worst-case scenario. Carry a map (phone batteries will be zapped by the cold) and a basic survival kit (1st aid, tracking device, matches, compass, knife, emergency blanket, extra food, small camp stove). Let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to return, and if you’re planning a longer day hike, consider taking a sleeping bag and insulated sleeping mat with you. It could make all the difference should you happen to get stranded for the night.
Check the Weather Report!
This region is known for its extreme and often dangerous weather – especially in the Mount Washington area. Every year there are tragic fatalities in the high peaks, and in many cases, these deaths were entirely avoidable. Always check the weather before heading out and turn around if you see weather rolling it. The mountains will still be there when you return for your adventure on a safer day.
MWOBS WEATHER >>
Drink Water
Yup. It’s as simple as that. One of the best ways to fight hypothermia and stay energized is to hydrate. Even though the temps are low, your body has to work incredibly hard to stay warm, and using all that energy saps your body of water. Eating and drinking regularly will keep you warmer, more energized, and overall safer. Be sure to pack your water in an insulated bottle so it doesn’t freeze, and don’t be afraid to bring along the hot coco, too.
