Liam Harrap, Guest Blogger

This blog is written by guest blogger Liam Harrap.

Although the weather is chilly and snowy, don’t let it stop you from exploring a winter wonderland!

Sometimes we decide to ski the snowier trail and try something new. Why? As the famous Everest climber George Mallory said, “Because it’s there”. It may be unpleasant, and for some even gosh-darn awful. Nevertheless, winter camping is an experience everyone should have (yes everyone). It’s an alternative way to explore Canada’s backyard during the offseason. You may even like it! Here’s the basic know-how:

1. Plan, Plan, and Plan some more

While camping in summer requires preparation, there’s far more to consider in the winter. And far more warm gear to carry. Keep track of the weather as -30^oC is a completely different experience than -10^oC. Blizzards can collapse tents, make you lose your way and wet weather increases chances for hypothermia. Be prepared for the worst. While camping in the Rockies is cold and dry, coastal BC is warmer and wet (making it much harder to dry anything). Pack appropriately.

Making breakfast after a big freeze can be quite the ordeal. Dad making toast | Photo – Liam Harrap

Bring a warm sleeping bag, if it’s going to be -30^oC then bring a -30^oC bag. Knowing how to make a fire can mean the difference between life and death. You can use a fire for cooking and drying equipment. Beforehand, make sure the area your camping in allows fires.

Fire always improves the mood. And keeps the chill of Old Man Winter away | Photo – Liam Harrap

2. Safety

Tell someone where you’re going and a return time. If you haven’t returned by then, your buddy should contact the authorities. Read a route description beforehand and bring a GPS, map and compass. Make sure you can use all three competently. Darkness descended early and a flashlight is a must. Some locations may require specific equipment, such as an avalanche beacon. Be familiar with avalanche safety training.

Reading outside is always a treat. The Wapta Icefields in Banff National Park | Photo – David Harrap

3. A Cheery Attitude

Let’s face it – winter is hard. If you expect to hate it, you probably will. In the end, what’s a night of discomfort? Find ways to smile and entertain yourself.

At the very least, winter camping makes you appreciate the basics in life. Such as central heating, your breakfast not freezing solid before you’ve finished eating it and not having to sleep in an ice-entombed tent. Can’t afford that holiday to Hawaii? Just go winter camping for a couple nights and when you return your home will seem nice and warm like a tropical beach.

I don’t think your view in Hawaii will match the sight from the summit of Mt. Joffre in Kananaskis Country. The climb requires you to camp along the way | Photo – Liam Harrap

I won’t lie – winter camping is tough. Yet, like all things difficult, the payoffs, such as the views, can be outstanding. Life is meant for adventuring, and camping is the perfect way to do so. Celebrate Canada’s 150th by pitching your tent in a snowbank. You may even have the entire snowbank to yourself. No reservations required. Guaranteed. Are you sold yet?

Liam Harrap is a master’s student in the Journalism program at Carleton University in Ottawa. He originally comes from Jasper, Alberta. A perfect place for climbing pointy things and survival skiing. He spends many weekends, camping in snowbanks and counting down the days to a buffet.

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