Although camping tends to be a more popular activity in Colorado during warmer summer months, it’s still possible to have an enjoyable experience once the snow starts falling – but preparation and using the correct equipment is key.

Here are some winter camping tips that will help you stay safe and have fun:

1. Pick a good campsite

When winter camping, research where you’re going and be sure to check weather reports for any incoming inclement weather. Remember, many campsites around the state may become inaccessible during winter months due to deep and impassible snow or seasonally-closed roads. And attempting to travel a road when it’s not fit to do so can lead to stranding.

When looking to pick a winter campsite, beginners should prioritize ease-of-access. It’s also worth noting the winter camping can mean needing more gear and heavier layers, which can be tricky to transport into the backcountry when reaching more remote spots – especially when traveling over snow and ice.

2. Be prepared with the right gear

It’s imperative that you have the necessary gear for winter camping, as it will ensure you’re properly protected from snow, wind, and other weather conditions.

Here’s a short list of essentials you should bring on your trip: Four-season tent (don’t think bigger is better, as some bigger tents can have more of an issue when it comes to trapping heat on a cold night), reliable backpack, sleeping bag rated for at least the expected temperatures, stove (with a fuel canister), plenty of warm layers, snow shovel, foot traction, a reliable fire starter, and first-aid kit. It’s also not a bad idea to bring something that will keep the sleeping bag from laying directly on the ground whether that’s a platform or some sort of pad. This will help with getting cold during the night.

Note: Also, always have the ’10 essentials’ with you in any sort of outdoor recreation scenario.

3. Make sure you set up correctly

Pick a campsite that’s sheltered from the wind and free of avalanche danger. Once a safe site is picked, prep your tent site by packing down the snow. It’s important to choose a site with several landmarks near it, like rocks or unique trees, that will remain identifiable even after snowfall. Also, don’t set up under anything that could fall under the weight of accumulating snow.

Check the Colorado Avalanche Information Center website on a regular basis for the risk forecast.

4. Stay warm

Hypothermia and frostbite are two weather-related concerns to be aware of when winter camping – and it’s important to take measures to stay warm and avoid either of these risks.

Bring insulated clothes that are waterproof and windproof, including hats and gloves to ensure you stay warm. A lot of heat is lost from the head, so it’s important to wear a hat, scarf, or hood.

Also, use something such as a sitting pad to stop heat transfer while you’re sitting down (or sleeping). And try to avoid sweating too much, as the sweat can make your clothes wet and cause you to get colder.

Bringing multiple pieces of essential gear is a good idea, as this can help when items like socks, shirts, and gloves get wet.

5. Stay hydrated and eat lots of calories

You’ll want to bring meals that have lots of carbs, proteins, and fats to give you energy and keep you warm. Some ideas include dried fruit, bread, candy, cereal, beef jerky, nuts, cheese, and butter. Hot beverages like coffee, hot chocolate, and tea are also great for staying warm.

Remember, if your body is in a cold environment, it will be burning more calories than normal in attempt to stay warm.

One last thing:

Always let someone know where you’re headed and when you’ll be back. A quick launch of a search and rescue mission becomes even more crucial when cold temperatures are involved and this information can make that more possible. It’s also never a bad idea to bring a GPS-based emergency communication device along, with the Garmin inReach line being a popular choice.

Oh – and don’t forget to know how to follow Leave No Trace’s ‘best practices’ for winter recreation. Find 12 tips here.

File photo. Photo Credit: Shaiith (iStock).

Shaiith