Looking for safe snow day escapades? Here’s what you need to know.
Last winter, Dan England explored the joys of winter activities in Northern Colorado with his article, “Snow Day Escapades.” While our region offers endless opportunities for adventure, safety in the snow is often overlooked. And with less daylight, unpredictable weather and the need for specialized gear, proper preparation is essential. Whether you’re snowshoeing, skiing, ice fishing or just enjoying the outdoors, staying safe means taking a few extra precautions.
Be Safe in the Snow
You could argue that winter is a more dangerous time to explore the Colorado outdoors than summer. Yet we don’t always think of safety in the winter, says Rachael Gonzales, spokeswoman for Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s northwest region. “I feel [that] everyone is really good about safety in the summer,” she says. “If [they] hear thunder, they know to turn around. But we often don’t think about winter.”
Here are some things to consider before trudging through the snow:
- Winter activities require special equipment. You need a beacon and shovel to prepare for avalanches while you snowshoe and ski in the backcountry. If you’re ice fishing, you’ll need self-rescue gear. You may also need microspikes, crampons, and an ice axe if you’re hiking at higher elevations. Don’t forget the necessary layers—gloves, hats, and jackets to stay warm, especially at night. With the sun setting as early as 4:30 p.m. in December, a headlamp is a smart idea. A map is also important since winter trails may look different, and it’s easy to lose the trail. Always bring a phone charger, as cold weather can drain batteries quickly.
- Check the weather. Be sure to check the radar and assess ice thickness if you’re planning to fish or ice skate. Always check snow conditions through the Colorado Avalanche Information Center website for snowshoeing, backcountry skiing, or hiking.
- Visitor centers and ranger stations can help. Experts at local centers can point you to a spot that matches your skill level, helping you avoid any risky situations.
- Your local sledding hill isn’t in the backcountry. Stick to safe, well-maintained areas for sledding. Charles Stoyer, president of the Grand Trail Grooming Association, reminds us that safety often comes down to common sense. “Snowmobiling can be dangerous if you’re stupid,” he says, “but so can skiing.”
If you’re new to winter sports, consider these tips to stay safe while enjoying your new hobbies:
- Go someplace popular. The chances of getting lost or into trouble are much lower in well-signed areas with other people around.
- Go with a group. Find local adventure groups on Meetup, Facebook, or other platforms where experienced winter adventurers can guide you.
- Rent your gear. The right gear is essential, but you don’t need to break the bank. Local gear shops offer rentals for snowshoes, cross-country skis, and more—plus helpful suggestions for local spots to explore.
With these safety tips in mind, you’ll be prepared to enjoy everything that winter in Northern Colorado has to offer.
