Cold-Weather Complications

Unlike most weather conditions, cold weather is unforgiving and merciless. If you mistakenly go out on a spring day without an umbrella, you might end up with pnuemonia but the likelihood is that you will just have a wet head. On a summer day without a hat and sunblock you could end up with sunstroke but will probably just suffer a bad sunburn. In the winter, however, if you are not adequately prepared for the conditions, you can very easily end up without fingers, toes or even your life.

The key to surviving and enjoying your winter experience is preparation and prevention. Dress appropriately, know the weather conditions (including temperature, precipitation, and the expected wind chill index), protect your extremities and remove wet clothing as soon as dry clothes are available.

That said, what are some of the dangers of cold weather?

When all is said and done, winter backpacking can be very rewarding but there is no sustitute for proper planning, preparation and practice. Think ahead, anticipate and never, especially when backpacking through extreme conditions, take anything for granted.