Planning Ahead and Prepare for Winter Recreation

Keene Valley, NY: With newly fallen snow in the Adirondacks, the Subaru/Leave No Trace Traveling Trainers share how they Plan Ahead and Prepare for a ski tour in freezing temperatures.

Carrying essential items is of the utmost importance for comfort, safety, and the ability to Leave No Trace. So what are the essential items? We can break down these items into six categories.

·      Comfort: Clothing and extra layers for weather

·      Communication: Whistle, phone, and/or reflective mirror

·      Nutrition: Food and water

·      Navigation: Map and compass, and/or a GPS device

·      Fixing Gear: Repair kit, including duct tape!

·      Fixing People: First aid

Categorizing items helps to make sure we have a checklist for everything needed on an adventure. Pair a full pack with a plan and itinerary for the day, and we are ready to embark on an adventure.

To increase your safety margin always check weather and forecast services prior your trip. Plan accordingly for hazardous weather. If you are planning to travel in avalanche terrain, bring the appropriate gear, as well as having the training to know how to use those items.

Adventure on!

Steph and Andy – Subaru/Leave No Trace Traveling Trainer Team East

Leave No Trace’s Stephanie Whatton and Andy Mossey are part of the 2016 Subaru/Leave No Trace Traveling Trainer Program that provides free, mobile education to communities across the country. Proud partners of this program include Subaru of America, Deuter, Hi-Cone, REI, Smartwool, The North Face, and Yakima.