Tahoe Rim Trail Association (Nevada) is launching its Snow Camping 101 class next month to provide concepts in trip planning, winter Leave No Trace principles, cooking in wintery conditions, critical gear needs, and how to stay warm in harsher environments.
According to a report, TRTA’s Snow Camping 101 will provide lessons on what to bring and how to enjoy winter camping safely.
“It’s a way to continue back-packing throughout the year,” said Lindsey Schultz, the TRTA’s outdoor programs director.
“How to maintain communication and tricks for staying warm,” explained Schultz.
“How to actually build a sheltered platform in a way that actually provides you insulation around your tent,” Schultz added.
It is a great way to experience another side of Rim Trail when it’s not as crowded and spacious.
“It’s nice because you don’t really have to venture super deep into the woods to be alone,” added Schultz.
It’s a huge difference from the warmer seasons, where the majority (of the 500,000 visitors per year) utilize the trails. In addition, since snow provides an element of protection for forests, it is possible to wander off the trail and relax and enjoy the scenery.
“It really opens up a lot of back-country possibilities for you,” continued Schultz. “And that peace and serenity, and utter pure silence that only really a winter landscape can offer.”
The class will be held on February 5 and 6 and is open to all ages and abilities. It costs $100 for TRTA members and $130 for non-TRTA members.
The proceeds will be donated to the nonprofit Tahoe Rim Trail Association, managing and maintaining the Rim Trail.
According to TRTA, students can expect a full day in the classroom on the first day, followed by an afternoon in the field on the second day.
This year’s course does not have an overnight component. It is designed to give students a basis for their own winter adventures through a combination of classroom and field instruction.
The classroom portion will provide concepts in trip planning, winter Leave No Trace principles, cooking in wintery conditions, critical gear needs, and how to stay warm in harsher environments. The field portion of this course is not an endurance test. Still, it will consist of a short snowshoe hike into a training area where students will receive hands-on instruction in making a successful camp and how to use gear commonly used while camping and traveling in the snow.
TRTA’s goal is for students to walk away from the course with the additional skills, knowledge, and confidence to enjoy a wintery backcountry adventure solo or with family and friends.