If you’re looking for more proof that winter camping is not only possible but can even be enjoyable, look no further than Chris Rodriguez’s blog. Rodriguez and friends camped out on Mount Mitchell in western NC recently (this highest point east of the Mississippi) and had a blast despite cold and snowy conditions. If you need motivation for getting out and camping before spring this is a good post to read.

Whether it’s hiking, biking, or camping in the winter, for me the hardest part is stepping out of the car. But once I’m outside and moving around the cold doesn’t seem as bad as I had thought it would be. And when I’m back in my car or back indoors the sense of accomplishment I get from winter hiking and camping is much greater than it is in the summer. Chris Rodriguez mentions in his post that winter camping feels a little extreme and I totally agree - that’s what makes it fun!

As a new Boy Scout I used to hate rainy camping trips (as I’m sure most people do) until I got proper rain gear. Once I had a set of rain pants, rain jacket, and waterproof boots I actually kinda hoped it would rain so I could show off my gear. And as an older Scout I also appreciated the challenge that camping in the rain added to what had become mostly routine for me (setting up the tent, making a fire, etc.).

It may seem a little masochistic but camping in adverse conditions can be kinda fun - especially when you make it back in one piece.

The Nashua Telegraph posted a great article about winter camping in snowy New Hampshire and I gotta say I learned alot about what it takes to camp in the snow. Aside from the fact that all your gear is much bulkier than in summer (thicker jackets and sleeping bags, sturdier tent for snow loads, etc.) there is also the fact that winter camping gear is much heavier than summer equipment. Yet, it’s still possible to go backcountry camping in winter with the help of a little something called a pulk.

If you’ve been downhill skiing you’ve probably seen ski patrol members practicing with pulks used to carry injured skiers off the slopes. The concept for winter backpacking/cross-country ski-camping is the same except the pulk is used to carry your gear instead of a person (gear which, hopefully, should be lighter than an adult!). From what I’ve read it’s best to use a pulk with rigid poles to help you keep your balance, though I imagine poles can also help with traction on tricky ascents. Unfortunately if you’re going somewhere without decent snow covering the ground you’re out of luck - pulks are only meant to glide across snow and ice.

You can purchase a pulk online or get instructions for building your own - a basic pulk can be constructed from a child’s sled and some rope. Many pulk-packers (is that a real term?) choose to carry some gear (like things that can’t get wet or frozen) on their backs while towing a pulk behind.

It’s pretty incredible the things people are willing do to get outside and camp this time of year - kinda makes me feel wimpy for complaining about the “cold” weather down here in Georgia!