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3 Reasons Why You Should Try Camping in the Snow

Camping in the snow can be a lot of fun, here's a few reasons why you should try it out!

By: Josiah Purss + Save to a List

When I moved to Utah, I was borderline scared of the snow. As soon as it started to snow I went straight inside. I couldn't handle wet socks, that just made me cranky, so snow was a no-go. Over the years I've fallen in love with it. So much so that I decided to give camping in the snow a shot. I loved it! Here are a few reasons why you should try it out.

1. Snow Furniture

If you thought building snowmen was fun, you have to try out snow furniture! Granted, you will need quite a lot of snow to do this, but its a lot of fun. Take an avalanche shovel and let your creativity run wild, basically whatever you can imagine, you can build. Snow kitchen? Yup! Mold some chairs, dig your stove pit, pile some snow around the edge to create a wind wall and you're all set. Build a tunnel or a walkway back to your tent and you don't even need to worry about how you will get between it and your new living area. I've heard of some pretty elaborate creations - so don't hold back!


2. Snow Shoeing

If you love hiking, you're bound to love snowshoeing. What's more fun than strapping big paddles to your feet and gliding across waist deep snow with ease? (Disclaimer: it's significantly harder than I'm describing - but still a lot of fun!) Having the opportunity to get out and hike in winter is awesome, but what's more awesome is waking up at the base of the mountain you want to summit the next day. Camping out there with your snow shoes ready to go makes this possible. 


3. Snow Problem

Puns aside, it's not as hard to plan for as you might think. A lot of places will rent everything you need relatively cheap. Grab a tent, winter sleeping bag and whatever else you don't have and you are good to go. As long as you have a good sleeping bag, warm clothes and waterproof shoes, you will be surprised how warm you stay. 

Snow camping is a great new experience to try out if you ever get the chance. Whether you love it or hate it, people will think you're pretty damn awesome for giving it a go. Just remember to plan accordingly, take the correct gear, check weather and avalanche warnings, and make smart choices. Getting lost in a blizzard with no compass would really put a damper on the mood.

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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