Tips to Recreate Responsibly This Winter

Taking the time to plan your destination wisely, allowing for different plans will help in case unexpected weather or unsafe conditions arise during your trip.  Travelling only in areas designated for your type of winter travel will also help secure your safety and those around you.  Before commencing on your journey, check the mountain passes and forecasts, as tire chains may be required.  Patience is key, winter conditions may make driving, parking, and traffic much more intense.

Traveling with the appropriate gear during winter is essential for your safety.  Remember layers of clothing may be adjusted as conditions change.  Accomplished snow recreationists choose to pack survival gear such as: extra socks and gloves or mittens, matches in a waterproof container, fire starter, lots of high-energy food, space blanket, first aid kit, shovel, a probe, and an avalanche beacon.  Snowmobilers should be carry tools necessary for emergency repairs, experienced ones carry snowshoes, in case of equipment failure.

Avalanches are complex, natural phenomena that can catch even the most experienced backcountry enthusiast by surprise.  Know your limits.  The more time spent in winter activities increases the chance of being caught by an avalanche.  Having some avalanche knowledge is crucial for backcountry travel.  Let people know where you are going and when you plant to return.

Being respectful of others will help ensure a healthy environment for recreation.  In indoor spaces, cover your nose and mouth, as well as maintain six feet or more of social distancing.  As always, if feeling sick please stay home.  Opting to share a meal and rest in the beautiful outdoors is a clear example of practicing meaningful wellness.  Make sure to carry out everything you carry into a recreation area, properly dispose of any litter, and perform safe sanitation procedures.

Access to public lands depends on a shared value of interconnectedness among visitors. There may be limited parking so appropriately parking will ensure space for others.  Be conscious of any impacts to the surrounding community.  Try shopping locally and learn a fun, significant cultural or historical fact to share with friends.  Avoid areas with low snow as traveling in these conditions will damage plants and soils just below the snow’s surface.  And, always respect established ski tracks when traveling by foot and snowshoe.

Engaging in a safe outdoor environment while recreating with others is fundamental for a positive welcoming experience.  Our public lands host a diverse number of visitors, and inclusive approaches to recreation helps carve a path for underrepresented communities to access winter activities.  As experienced winter recreationists, choosing to share the snow by extending help to communities who historically do not partake in winter recreation will contribute to building an inclusive outdoor community.