Beginners Winter Backpacking Course

Sat, Feb 8, 2025 · 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM · Gibson River area

This is a continuation of the "What to pack for a winter trip" course on Jan 11th. In that class we discuss what to pack and on this trip I will discuss how to use it. We will snowshoe 4 KM into the backcountry of the Gibson River area building the skills that are needed to travel safely and comfortably in the winter while on snowshoes.

This trip has some very rigid requirements unlike most other trips. You MUST

• Have attended the "What to pack for a winter trip (https://www.meetup.com/KW-Backcountry/events/305349401/)" on Jan 18th.
• Have proven experience backpacking on a non-guided trip. That means you carried your own kit and managed all your own needs. We will be checking.
• You must be in good physical condition. Winter travel is more strenuous than summer.
• Your packed items must be inspected and approved by me (Tim) in the week before trip.

For the safety of the whole group the packing list should be followed closely. A packing list can be found here

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1j260l_iAxgUTmznS4vH_P4p0QTnpmbsLJ04nO2DC-Q8/edit?usp=sharing

Please contact me well ahead of time with any gear questions and issues. I also have some gear to loan so please consider asking to borrow something before buying. Remember you likely will have much of the clothing in the form of workout clothes. Just make sure you don't bring any cotton!

I will be conducting a gear inspection at Barley Works on Tuesday February 4th between 7-8 PM. Other times can be arranged if you are willing to come to my house (located near King and Victoria). If I am not satisfied with your kit I will refuse to bring you into the back-country for everyone's safety. I have never had to to do this so don't be too afraid. Feel free to ping me early with questions which can reduce the stress on inspection day.

Money:

I will be collecting $10 deposit which will be refunded if you attend the trip or drop before Jan 30th. This prevents abuse by people who reserve a spot but don't intend to go on the trip.

You should also plan on

Split the cost of gas between the driver and all passengers in the car you come in.
Meals along the way. We often stop in a restaurant on the way home.

Itinerary

• At 10:30 AM we meet at the boat launch near Gibson River Provincial Park. The exact location can be found with this pin.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/NfsBPm8pFii8TjeZ6.
You are in the right spot if you see a boat launch on your left and a baseball field on your right.
• We will hike into the park approx 5-8KM, conditions dependent and have a pleasant evening
• On Sunday we will return the same way we went in.