HOW TO HAVE FUN AND STAY COMFORTABLE IN WINTER
It is very enjoyable to be out and about in the snowy winter landscape. Every- thing is quiet and sparkly, covered with a crystalline blanket. Spindrift swirls in the frosty air, and wildlife tracks are everywhere. But winter demands special preparation and caution.
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Make sure you are familiar with your gear and that it is working properly before you venture out. As I have discovered, something as simple as a lost pole basket can make snow travel much more difficult. A broken ski binding can be life-threatening. Choose skis and boots suitable for touring or ski mountaineering, meaning metal edges and sturdy boots. Save the skinny edgeless skis and the skating skis for cross-country ski trails like West Yellowstone's Rendezvous trail system, or for spring "crust-cruising" on the flats. Dress in layers, no cotton of course, and carry extra clothing, plenty of high-calorie food, water, hot drinks, fire starter, hand warmers, and a repair kit for your ski or snowshoe gear. Always have sunglasses and sunscreen with you, as well as a warm hat and gloves (consider a thinner and a warmer pair). Try to keep your clothing fairly dry, and have a dry
shirt handy in case you sweat through the one you are wearing.
Give wildlife plenty of room, for your safety and theirs. Winter is their most vul- nerable season, and any stress may affect their survival. Leave your dogs at home. Don't travel alone. Let someone else know where you are going. The Yellowstone landscape has the special hazard of scalding hot springs. Stay well away from these unless on a board walk, and even then be extra cautious. Learn about avalanches and how to avoid them. Watch for icy trail conditions, changes in the weather, and changing snow conditions. Only a few Yellowstone trails are actually groomed for skiing. If you are hardy enough (and crazy enough) to consider winter camping, Backcountry Use Permits are required for overnight trips.
If you want to learn to cross country ski, improve your skills, or just go with a guided group, sign up for a ski course with Yellowstone Association Institute (yellowstoneassociation.org). Please remember when walking or snowshoeing, stay out of ski tracks. See you in Yellowstone!
YELLOWSTONE CUSTOM COUNTRY HOMES
WWW.BIGSKYBUILDERS.COM 406-842-5068
HOWARD MILLS, OWNER AT YCCH@3RIVERS.NET
q contact PHIL KNIGHT 26 DISTINCTLY MONTANA • WINTER 2013
