Equipment
Where could I get snowshoes?
The troop and specifically the quartermaster have snowshoes you can borrow.
Is cotton good for snow camping/hiking in general?
What should you always check former to going on any outdoor outing?
The weather forecast.
Is there a snowshoeing merit badge?
No, but there is a “Snow Sports” merit badge, where you can choose between downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
How much water should you bring?
Same as usual, at least 1.5 liters, but the more the merrier.
Where should I return my snowshoes/equipment after the campout?
Simply ask Calvin, our quartermaster, and he will be able to keep track of all of the items.
What are three?
Should you bring extra clothing, despite it making your pack heavier?
Yes! The Boy Scout motto is “Be Prepared“, which includes being prepared for accidentally getting your socks wet, for example.
A snowshoeing campout this troop does.
What is Mt. Rainer snowshoeing?
What kind of food should you have on a snowshoeing campout?
Contrary to normal hikes, and even some backpacking trips, lightness, heat, and quickness are key factors for snowshoeing meals. Obviously nutrition goes for both. Ergo, oatmeal and fast things like Mountain Man meals are good.
How do snowshoes work?
By distributing your weight across a large area of snow, and providing traction via the spikes.
What is the function of the outer layer?
To protect against the wind and cold environment.
Should you bring an altered 10 essentials to winter camping?
Yes and no — If you have an expansive first aid kit and the three layers as your backup clothing, no need to change anything. However, if not, be sure that you have moleskin packed for potential blisters on the hike, proper clothing for the weather, and others.
What is a winter activities based camping establishment (i.e. Camp Parsons)?
Camp Shepherd.
Where should you keep food?
In a bear bag or canister.
Are normal hiking poles good for snowshoeing?
Yes, as long as they are adjusted to be sufficiently long. Also, the basket at the bottom of the poles may need to be bigger, but not necessarily.
What is the function of the mid layer?
To insulate and keep warm.
How do you know if your pack is light enough for the hike?
After packing your pack, walk around with it, going uphill and downhill respectively, and adjust it accordingly.
How tall is Mt. Rainer?
It is 14,410 feet tall. Neat, but, I’ll I don’t think anyone will know that, therefore, this is worth 1000 points!
How do you keep you water from freezing?
You can put your camelbacks/water bottles in insulators, as well as keep them close to your body.
What tent, if any is best for winter camping?
Typically, a four season tent would be the best tent for snow camping as compared to a three season tent, because it may include sturdier poles, better insulation, and sturdier design against wind and snow.
What is the function of the base layer?
Not to insulate, but purely to wick away sweat, preventing it from making you colder.
How do I get up after falling down while snowshoeing?
First, roll so that you are facing uphill, then, on your knees, push yourself up with your hands and/or poles.
Is there a place where you can see a packing list or essentials for the upcoming campout?
If you are registered for the upcoming snowshoeing at Mt. Rainer, emails will come in regards to packing.
Why must you protect your food?
Because animals, such as foxes will gladly tear into it, potentially breaking your equipment and spoiling your breakfast.