Beginners Winter Backpack

Posted in: Getting Started- Sep 03, 2010 No Comments Tagged with: , , , ,

A doc I wrote for those on their first winter backpacking trip.

 

 

Beginners Winter Backpack

Winter backpacking can be a great experience. The skies seem just a bit more crisp, the views a bit more distant and the scenery just a bit more spectacular. But, winter backpacking can be something that not many people wish to try by themselves. Which is why this trip was planned. It is a chance for those curious about winter back packing to try it out without an overly arduous adventure.

The plan is to go in ~3 miles, set up camp, play around a bit, get back to camp and cook dinner. The following morning we will hike out, cheer the fact that we survived and celebrate by downing large cups of hot coffee at a local greasy spoon.

While winter backpacking can be a great time, there are some differences between that and three-season backpacking. The gear tends to be heavier, you tend to have to pack more gear and you have to be a bit more aware of what is going on.   Having said that, here are a few notes that may help you prepare for the trip.  Please note this trip is NOT an instruction session, but rather a trip for those who want to try out a winter camping experience.  Also, this FAQ-type info is not inclusive. Ultimately you are responsible for what you consider to be your own comfort level.

Winter Hiking Basics

The first fact of any winter activity is DO NOT OVERHEAT. If you sweat extensively, you will chill once you slow down. Wet clothing = bad!  For that reason, it is better to have several layers of clothing rather than one, big and heavy jacket (see below for more information on layering).
 
A quick and dirty rule of thumb is to use the 20 Degree Rule. Borrowed from running, it simply means to dress like it is twenty degrees warmer than the actual temperature.     The 20 Degree Rule is just a rule of thumb that can differ form person to person, but overall the logic is the same regardless: Snowshoeing, skiing or hiking  is an aerobic activity.You will be generating body heat (esp with at typically heavier winter pack) and will soon warm up.  If you start off the trip and you are slightly cool, you are probably dressed correctly. When you stop, you can always throw on an extra layer. If you overdressed, you will be soaked in sweat and will be cold quite quickly when you stop.
How to dress correctly? See below!
Clothing to bring on a winter trip

If you day hike, you probably already have the basic clothing you need for snowshoeing and are aware of what to bring. With the exception of few extra items, you should be all set. To those new to the outdoors (or just want a bit of a refresher) read on:

The quick and dirty rule of clothing to bring on a snowshoe trip is NO COTTON  (this means no blue jeans!)  While cotton is comfy, it can make for an unpleasant trip. Cotton, when wet, loses all insulating value and will actually take the heat away from your body, possibly causing hypothermia.   Additionally, sweaty or wet cotton clothes can cause severe chafing (your “tighty whities”, blisters (your cotton gym socks) and all around “icky-ness”. Try putting on a cotton t-shirt sweaty and damp from the previous day. Talk about a wake-up call! Imagine walking in wet, heavy and cold clothing in winter ?!?!?!? Ack!

In winter, it is very important to use layers of clothing. Rather than one bulky garment (that alternately will leave you sweating and then cold when you take it off), it is better to wear a few different layers that you can take on and off as conditions warrant.

The basics of the layer principle for winter:

  1. Wicking inner  base layer  
  2. Middle  layer to retain body heat
  3. Outer shell layer to keep out the wind and snow
  4. What I call the "puffy" layer – a  down or synthetic filled jacket

The wicking inner layer is sometimes wool but is usually synthetic. Think of this layer as your “long undies”. Typically the synthetic underwear is known by such names as Polypropylene, CoolMax, DuoFold, etc.  This layer will move the sweat away from your body, helping you to regulate your body temperature. This layer is a very important one for keeping you warm and dry.

The middle layer is usually a fleece jacket,  a wool sweater or a Primaloft-type jacket (think thin layer of synthetic down).

DO NOT use a cotton sweatshirt. A wet cotton sweatshirt will take forever to dry and has no insulating value. Though chattering up in the mountains may be romantic in a “braving the elements kinda way”, it is much easier to enjoy hot cocoa when you are not shivering.
 
If you get cold easily in the legs, some light fleece pants or even expedition weight long underwear may not be a bad idea as another layer. I personally find that my legs do not get cold easily and do not need the fleece pants/heavier long underwear.
The third layer is the shell layer. This layer is meant to keep out the wind and the snow. You can use anything from an expensive Gore-Tex jacket to a simple coated nylon pullover. The key is to wear something that keeps out the wind and the snow. I like a simple nylon shell myself. Find it to be more breathable and lighter than a heavy Gortex jacket meant for mountaineering. Your rain gear from hiking will probably work well.
 
You will also need a shell layer for your legs. You can use expensive mountaineering Gortex-type pants, but that is overkill for most people.   Your hiking rain pants will work well, or even unlined wind pants if you are on a budget. Keeping out the wind and the snow is the key.  I would not use insulated ski bibs such as the ones used for (ughh!) downhill skiing. You will probably overheat and these are not versatile as separate layers.
 
The "puffy layer" is the last layer and is usually thrown on during breaks when it is esp cold and rarely worn while snowshoeing. Synthetics are less expensive, but a little heavier. Down is lighter (and very well suited for the cold, dry conditions of Colorado), but is generally more expensive. It is a good layer to have stowed in your pack. For less than two pounds, it can mean the difference between an enjoyable break to look over the scenery and freezing your tootkus off!
HEADWEAR
Keeping the noggin' warm is very important in winter. With so much body heat escaping from your head (esp. if you are bald like me!), it is important to keep in the heat via good head cover. Adequate management of your head gear can mean the difference between being too cold, too hot (and soaked in sweat) or just right.
The basic components that I find useful for head gear are:
  1. Wool or Fleece Hat: Your standard winter hat. Too cold? Thrown on a hat! Too warm? Take it off! Your most important piece of winter gear in my opinion for regulating body temperature.
  2. Balaclava : AKA the Ninja Ski Mask.  Not to be confused with a delicious pastry… A very versatile piece of clothing. I find a lightweight one to be the most useful. Roll it up for a light hat, roll it down for a neck warmer, roll it over your ears to be worn with a ball cap, wear it normally for more warmth and protection in the high winds and cold.
  3. Sun Hat: When it is not cold out, or you just need light headgear, a simple ball cap will keep the sun off your face. Some people like a broader brimmed hat in the winter.
  4. Neoprene face mask: In very cold and windy conditions, the combo of a winter hat, a balaclava and this mask is very useful. I keep it stowed in my pack at all times "just in case".
  5. Goggles: When the wind is blowing fierce, esp if you are in an area with little-to-no tree cove, the goggles make sure you can see!  You don't have to buy anything fancy, even used $10 work well for most people.
Footwear
When I think of winter activities, I think of three parts for footwear: The socks, the boots and the gaiters.
 
Socks: Unless you are trail running, you will probably be using a heavier boot. As such, I find the combo of a liner sock and a thicker sock to work well. The liner sock helps prevent blisters and wicks sweat away. A thin nylon dress sock also works for some people. You then place a thicker wool or synthetic sock (usually a little thicker than the ones used for hiking) over the liner.  When picking out socks, be sure that they are not so thick that your toes are bunched into the boot. Too tight a fit means poor circulation, which means cold feet. No fun!  Also DO NOT use cotton socks! Cotton tends to soak up moisture from your feet. Besides causing blisters, it can cause cold feet as well. Remember wet= cold= badness!
 
Boots: While in a pinch, your normal hiking boots may work, they will probably wet-out and not be insulated.  If you find you snowshoe fairly often, you will want to pick up better footwear for winter.
Four general  types of boots that can be used:
  1. Pac Boots (Sorel Caribou being the most well known) .  Very warm, but heavy and bulky. I find they work best for winter backpacking
  2. Winter hiking boots. Many companies now make insulated boots designed for winter hiking/snowshoeing. Similar in size, style and weight to fabric hiking boots, but with insulation. Not as much insulation as pac boots; this choice works well for the typical day snowshoe outing.         
  3. Insulated hunting boots also work well. Even if you don't have visions of being Elmer Fudd, these boots are a little higher (keeps out snow!) than hiking boots and tend to be highly water resistant. They are often (but not always) less expensive than winter hiking boots and are avail at such places as the Sportman's Guide, surplus stores and any other stores that cater to the Field and Stream crowd. Remember, many hunters are out all day in the snow and often track their game in off-trail conditions.  These boots are little heavier and less flexible than winter hiking boots, but tend to be warmer.  Hunting boots can be a nice compromise between the warmth of pac boots and the lightness of winter hiking boots.
  4. Ski touring boots. Similar to the above winter hiking boots, but meant for skiing. The advantage of the ski boot  versus winter hiking boots is that you can use them for skiing, too. :)   They easily fit into the snowshoe bindings. These types of boots are often found used in many places and can also be a good alternative for someone on budget and/or a person who also backcountry skis
Note: There are some overlapping in the types..but the above gives a good, general basic idea of what is avail.
 
Gaiters : Unless you stick to very packed down trails, gaiters are a must have item. They slip over your boots and go up to your calves. They will keep the snow out of the boots. I think that may be useful.
Handwear
In all but the warmest conditions, your hands need protection in the winter. As with other clothing, it is better to layer rather than wear one bulky garment. Gloves allow more versatility; mittens are warmer. I bring them both…
 
Glove Liners: A thin liner (fleece or wool) is very versatile. When moving, I find this be enough in many conditions.  A glove liner allows you to take photos, eat food, drink water and the other myriad chores without getting your hands excessively cold
 
Shell Mittens: Shell mittens will keep the snow and the wind off your liners. I find a shell and liner combo to be  very warm, and rarely need a middle layer. Size the shell large enough for your liner and middle layer combo.
 
Middle Layer (thick mittens): I rarely need it, but I always have thick wool (or fleece) mittens stowed. When it is VERY cold, the combo of liner/thick mittens/shell keeps the hands warm
 
Chemical glove (or foot) heater packs: I rarely use them, but they are inexpensive and not a bad item to keep in your pack for an emergency. I've used them more for others than myself.
 

Clothing for at night

At night, you'll want some warm and dry clothing to change into. An additional hat, some expedition weight underwear and some thicker wool or fleece socks are great to change into at night. Even the most careful person tends to accumulate some sweat into their day use clothing. Some warm and dry clothing helps make for a pleasant night's rest.

SIDE NOTE: Wool vs Fleece (or Wool vs Synthetics)
There has been a bit of resurgence in the use of wool for backcountry use (esp in  base layers). So what to use? It honestly does not matter for most people; it comes down to personal preference. As long as you do not use cotton, you should be  fine. Many people use a combo of wool and synthetics (esp in winter).  If you are curious of the pros and cons of each, here is my personal take:
 
Wool
  • Warm when damp
  • Can be inexpensive (thrift stores, surplus) or expensive (Smartwool, Ibex, etc)
  • Tends to breathe better than synthetics
  • More durable
  • Less odor
  • Takes longer to dry when wet (and becomes heavier)
  • Usually bulkier and heavier than comparable synthetics or fleece
Synthetics or Fleece
  • Dries quicker (but is not warm when damp)
  • For base layers, good ole' polypro can be ridiculously cheap
  • Usually less heavy and bulky than the wool equivalent
  • Can get a pungent odor
So what do I use?
 
For winter use, when I am more concerned about warmth than weight (and I am wearing most of my layers), I tend to favor wool base layers (except for the liner socks) as it is more forgiving of sweating I find. A wool hat tends to be warmer if it gets damp in snow vs a fleece hat as well.  A surplus wool sweater is now my warm layer of choice, too.  In the cold, dry conditions of Colorado,  I find wool works very well overall.
In three season backpacking, when weight and bulk is a chief a concern (and most of my layers are stowed), I tend to wear synthetics. Any moisture in spring through fall tends to be rain (or very wet snow), so  the quick drying properties of synthetics comes in handy.
Overall, you may find one combo works better than another based on your budget, availability of what you may already have or just personal preference.
Sun Protection
Sun protection is very important in the winter. You need to protect your skin and your eyes from the harsh UV radiation.
 
   SUNSCREEN!!!!!!! – The UV radiation in Colorado, esp. at higher elevations, can be fierce. Bring a small amount of sunscreen.  A sun hat is also suggested for similar reasons.

SUNGLASSES!!!!!! – For similar reasons to the above, be sure to wear sunglasses. Do not need anything fancy. As long as they have 100% UVA and UVB protection. Even the $15 drug store glasses  offer this type of protection now. Most ski goggles offer this kind of protection as well. But, unless it is very windy, sunglasses are better suited for most snowshoeing conditions.

Lip Balm – Not as critical (no !!!! or ALL CAPS ;D ), but some lip balm protects those lips from the dry, windy and sunny conditions.
Hydration and food
In winter, it is very easy to not drink. Psychologically, because it is cold, you don't feel the need to drink as often as during summer. But, it is essential to keep hydrated. Otherwise, you will feel sluggish, not process food as well and ultimately get colder. Not fun!
 
I do not suggest using a CamelBak. The tube tends to freeze making it so you can't get water. Even the insulated CamelBaks have had mixed results at best.
 
I am a big fan of a Gatorade bottle or two stowed in my pack. Wrapped in my clothing (or even an old wool sock), the bottles rarely freeze. Another trick that works well is to heat some hot water at home and pour it into a Nalgene and then stowe it in your pack.  You can buy an insulated bottle holder if you feel the need (or simply use the old sock trick, with the sock placed in plastic shopping bag for waterproofing)
 
An optional item, but one enjoyed by everyone, is a thermos of your favorite hot beverage. Some hot tea is always welcome! I also enjoy Lipton's soup or similar: A hot drink, much craved salt and some carbs/protein in one lovely package. Mmmm…
 
As for food, standard hiking food is fine. You may want to take a bit more quick sugar (like chocolate) to give the body a needed boost if you feel the need to warm up.  Also remember  that it is better to munch all day rather than have one big meal. Your body is a furnace. Esp in winter, it needs constant stoking!
 
At night, FAT! SUGAR! CARBS! LOTS OF IT!  Yes, cook some nice calorie laden dinners.  Get a nice carb and fat mixture before going to bed. Pasta with a cream sauce works quite nice. Add some protein to help repair the muscles you used during the day. Being winter, do not have to worry about food spoiling. Pack in your favorite food (if you are willing to carry it! )   Sleeping with some candy or cookies high in sugar also helps. Feel slightly chilled at 2 AM? Eat some sugary food. The quick energy for your body to burn can often mean the difference between a good night’s sleep and restless night.
 

“The Cold, Cold, Ground”

No. That is not the title of an Appalachian Spiritual (but it is a rather cool Tom Waits song).  Rather, it is a fact of winter hiking. The ground is cold and robs you of heat. Try not to sit directly on the ground. It literally will suck the heat out of you.  If you are taking a break, sit on your sleeping pad or pack.

In Summary

  • Your body generates heat
  • Eat and drink often to keep the heat production going
  •  Clothing keeps the heat in; be sure not to wear cotton
  •          A wicking layer to move moisture away from the body
  •          A fleece or wool mid-layer on your head, torso, legs and fee 
  •          A waterproof and windproof layer
  • Wind and the cold ground takes the heat away
  • Too much clothing worn and working up a big sweat can be as dangerous as being too cold

In Camp

Shelter

On this trip, we plan to build snow caves.  A snow cave is a shelter that can take time to build, but provides an ample amount of warmth –even in winter. Think of a snow cave as a modified snow fort you built when you were ten years old. (If you grew up in a snowy area. If you grew up in Florida, then all bets are off !)

Though we will be building a snow cave, an alternate shelter should be brought in case there is not enough snow or we do not have time to build the cave. A three-season tent can be used if it is the type that is mainly nylon and not mostly mesh.  A freestanding tent would be the easiest to setup. A non-free standing tent can also be used if staked down properly. Ski poles, snowshoes, snow stakes, etc can all help to stake down a tent. Please note if stakes are used they will have to be anchored down (also known as dead manned).  Commercial snow anchors are available, but extra stuff sacks filled with snow and buried, a heavy zip-lock bag, etc can all be used. As with normal backpacking, many common items can be put into use for other purposes.  A full on four-season tent can be rented at many outdoor stores.

Sleeping bags and pads

At minimum you should be using a 0F bag. Something in the negative temperatures is even better if you are a “cold sleeper” (or if it gets REALLY cold at night!).  If you do not have a winter sleeping bag two twenty degree bags inside one another can work some extra clothing worn to bed can also work.  It will be weightier and bulkier, but we are not hiking far. The purpose of this trip is to experience winter…not break the wallet.  You will also want to have two sleeping pads. It is very important to have insulation between you and the ground. A Therma-Rest and a foam pad seem to be a good combination.  Two foam pads also work well. The key is to insulate yourself from the ground!  Winter sleeping bags can also be rented.

Stoves and Cooking

Yes, Virginia, I really do own a stove that is not made out of beer cans!  In winter, white gas type stoves work best for cooking dinner (and melting snow for water). The Whisperlight by MSR is a popular model. But any white gas stove will work. Canister stoves will also work if you sleep with the canister. If you do not have a stove, ask to share. Two people can share a stove in winter reasonably well.

Setting up a stove in the snow can be interesting. A trick is to use a license plate to place the stove on or the flat of a snow shovel. Additionally, commercial stove stands are sold that make cooking in an unstable surface (i.e. SNOW) easier. Nothing is worse than tipping over a bowl of pasta in the snow. (Sad voice of experience speaking here…)   You will want to bring a large pot (2 liters or more) to boil water or possibly melt snow.  A simple $5 pot from XYZMart can work. No need to buy the super-duper Titanium wonder pot from BigBurlyOutdoor store.    Bring extra fuel. All the boiling of water, melting snow, and slurping of tea or hot cocoa uses up fuel more so than during summer. Large mouth bottles (i.e. Nalgenes) are ideal for holding water in winter. Water is life. Without water (and fuel to make water or boil it) you will not be able to cook dinner, you will dehydrate, get cold, get cranky and never want to go on a CHAOS winter adventure again!

ETC.

  • ·       A mug for a hot drink at night is great and a great boost when the mercury starts dipping
  • ·       Drink plenty of water before going to bed. Being dehydrated can lead to a cold nights sleep. Those who do not drink a lot of liquid before going to bed will be forced to endure a fate worse than death.  (Attending a monster truck rally? Listening to me sing? Attending a Britney Spears concert?   Oh..I can be devious. Trust me, you better drink lots of water or hot tea!)
  • ·       Some hot (not boiling water) put into a Nalgene, then placed in your sleeping bag at night can add some warmth to the bag. It also means you will have some non-frozen water in the morning for cooking
  • ·       All that hydration means you will have to heed nature’s call at some time during the night. Guys, bring a “pee bottle”. A wide mouth Gatorade type bottle works great.  Better than crawling out of the sleeping bag into the cold night and then crawling back in. (And for the women out there, Campmor sells an adaptor called the “Lady J”. www.campmor.com, Item 80976-R.  Sorry, this is one area where I cannot think of an alternative.  For some reason, Mr. Mags does not know that particular detail of winter camping. ;) )
  • ·       Also, doing some exercise before going to bed can help you keep warm. Some jumping jacks or
  • sit-ups can get the metabolism going…generating more heat..keeping you warm.
  • ·       Garbage bags are your friend. Heavy condensation can occur at night in a tent. Keep items in the bag that you do not want to get wet.  A soggy wool or fleece hat can be a bit more of an eye opener in the morning than you would care for!  Also, garbage bags can line your clothing and sleeping bag stuff sacks. A simple Hefty bag can keep that wonderful powder away for your clothes and sleeping bag..and away from what keeps your warm at night!
  • ·       On the same theme, a small Ziplock full of items you do not want to freeze is handy. Such things as contact solution can freeze at night. Sleep with this Ziplock in your bag. Other items to put into the Ziplock are a lighter, your snacks, and a headlamp.  Basically, anything you do not want to freeze and need to access easily.
  • ·       Bring a shovel! For this trip, the burly, gnarly Gen Xer ‘let’s build a snow cave’ shovel is nice but not needed. A small lightweight shovel like you would find at a hardware store is good enough for this trip. I purposely chose an area that is free from avalanche danger, is sheltered and is conducive to people going on their first winter backpack.  As before, we want to have fun, not break the wallet  A shovel can build an emergency shelter or build up some snow to  shelter your tent a bit more, serve as a stand for your stove and to excavate your way out of the tent if it dumps too much snow during the night. Naturally, you will need a shovel to build a snow cave.
  • ·       If wearing leather boots, open them wide before going to bed. Boots will freeze in the shape they are left in. Another trick to place your boots in a garbage bag and sleep with them.
  • ·       Extra batteries for your headlamp are suggested.
  • ·       Listen to Mom…WEAR YOUR SUNSCREEN
  • ·       Listen to Me: WEAR YOUR SUNGLASSES.   Snow blindness is no fun!
  • ·       This is winter. Even though the area I chose is fairly safe, nothing is 100% safe, esp. in winter! Just be aware of your surroundings, prepare for the trip and it can be a great time.
  • ·       Most of all, HAVE FUN! Winter is a great time to play in Colorado.

Many thanks to Paul Fearing for offering some input on this list.  I sometimes take for granted things I learned the hard way. Paul added some great input and reminded me of a few things to add that will make it so you hopefully do not have learn things the hard way! :)

If you have want to go on the trip, have additional questions, comments or just want to ask “Are you qualified in any way to organize this trip ?!?!?”*** please contact me.

(*** Highly debatable!)

Suggested Packing List

Here is a quick and dirty list of suggested items to brings. As always, what items you bring depends upon your  personal comfort and safety level.
  

 
Clothing – Worn 
  • ­_Boots
  • _ Liner Socks
  • _ Wool or fleece socks
  • _ Gaiters
  • _ Long underwear top
  • _ Long underwear bottoms
  • _ Shell pants
  • _ Wool Sweater/Fleece/Primaloft Jacket
  • _Liner Gloves
  • _Sunglasses
  • _Wool or fleece hat

***WEAR SUNSCREEN!!!***

DON'T FORGET YOUR SKIS OR SNOWSHOES (AND POLES) IF YOU NEED THEM. :)

Clothing – Packed

  • _ Shell Jacket
  • _ Light fleece pants/ exp wt long underwear (optional; mainly if you get cold easily)
  • _ Down or synthetic filled "puffy" jacket
  • _ Shell Mittens
  • _ Thick Wool/Fleece mittens
  • _Sun Hat
  • _ Balaclava
  • _ Face Mask
  • _ Goggles
  • _Extra hat
  • _Extra socks
  • _Extra long underwear
_
PACKED EQUIPMENT
_Map and Compass
_Small tube of sunscreen
_ Pocket Knife
_ Headlamp/Flashlight
_ Water and food
_ Shovel
_ Small first aid kit
_Lip balm
_Lighter
_Thermos (optional)
_Duct Tape
_Zip ties
_Shelter
_Sleeping bag
_Sleeping pads
_Stove
_Cookpot
_Mug (optional)
 
…..a PACK  to haul it all in!
 

 

A SMILE AND A GOOD ATTITUDE! :)
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