Winter Packing List

Critical: Winter travel in the Canadian Rockies is serious. You will be skiing or snowshoeing 11km (3-5 hours) in potentially harsh conditions. This is avalanche terrain. AST 1 certification strongly recommended.

Winter Travel Gear

Skiing Equipment (If Ski-Touring)

• Backcountry skis with touring bindings
• Climbing skins
• Ski poles with powder baskets
• Ski crampons (for icy conditions)
• Ski wax and scraper
• Spare ski tip and binding parts
• Emergency ski strap

Snowshoe Equipment (Alternative)

• Snowshoes (25-30" depending on your weight)
• Trekking poles with snow baskets
• Snowshoe repair kit

Note: Snowshoes available for rent at the lodge with advance booking.

Avalanche Safety Equipment (REQUIRED)

The Essential Three (Non-Negotiable)

• Avalanche transceiver (digital, with fresh batteries)
• Avalanche probe (collapsible, 240cm+)
• Avalanche shovel (metal blade, extendable handle)

Additional Safety

• Avalanche safety training certificate (AST 1 minimum)
• Knowledge of current avalanche conditions (check Avalanche.ca)
• Whistle
• Signal mirror

Mandatory: Practice with your avalanche equipment before your trip. Know how to use it under stress.

Clothing Layers (Layering is Survival)

Base Layer (Moisture Management)

• Thermal underwear tops (2-3, merino wool or synthetic)
• Thermal underwear bottoms (2-3, merino wool or synthetic)
• Merino wool or synthetic t-shirts (2-3)
• Warm socks (4-5 pairs, wool or synthetic blend)
• Sock liners (help with moisture and warmth)

Mid Layer (Insulation)

• Fleece jacket or pullover (medium weight)
• Insulated jacket (down or synthetic puffy)
• Softshell pants or insulated pants
• Insulated vest (optional but useful)

Outer Layer (Weather Protection)

• Waterproof/breathable shell jacket (with hood)
• Waterproof shell pants (full side zips recommended)
• Gaiters (to keep snow out of boots)

Extremities (Critical in Cold)

• Insulated winter boots (rated to -30°C minimum)
• Insulated winter gloves (primary pair)
• Insulated mittens (backup/extra warm)
• Liner gloves (thin, for dexterity)
• Warm winter hat (covers ears)
• Balaclava or neck gaiter (face protection)
• Goggles (ski goggles for whiteout conditions)
• Sunglasses (Category 4, glacier glasses)

Backpack & Camping Gear

Pack

• Winter backpack (50-70L)
• Pack liner or waterproof stuff sacks
• Daypack (for day trips from lodge)

Sleeping & Comfort

• Sleeping bag liner (adds warmth)
• Inflatable sleeping pad repair kit
• Earplugs (optional)

Lighting

• Headlamp with extra batteries (critical - short days)
• Backup flashlight
• Extra batteries (cold drains batteries fast)

Hydration

• Insulated water bottles (prevent freezing)
• Thermos (for hot drinks)
• Water bottle insulator or cozy
• Hydration system with insulated tube (if using)

Navigation & Emergency

Navigation

• Map and compass
• GPS device (with extra batteries)
• Route plan (left with someone outside)
• Emergency contact numbers

Emergency Gear

• Emergency bivy or space blanket
• Fire starter and waterproof matches
• Emergency whistle
• Duct tape (repairs everything)
• Multi-tool or knife
• Repair kit for skis/snowshoes
• Para cord (15-20 feet)

Personal Items

Toiletries

• Biodegradable soap (all-purpose)
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Lip balm (SPF, moisturizing)
• Moisturizer (cold air is very dry)
• Quick-dry towel
• Toilet paper (small amount)
• Hand warmers (chemical, for emergencies)

Sun Protection (Essential Even in Winter)

• Sunscreen (SPF 50+ - snow reflects UV)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Zinc oxide (for nose/cheeks)

Medical

• Personal prescription medications
• Pain relievers
• Blister treatment
• Personal first aid kit
• Hand and toe warmers (chemical)
• Any personal medical devices

Electronics & Documentation

• Camera (with cold weather battery performance in mind)
• Extra batteries (keep warm in inner pocket)
• Memory cards
• Fully charged power banks (multiple)
• Smartphone (limited use, but for emergencies)
• Charging cables
• Photo ID
• Insurance information
• Lodge booking confirmation
• Emergency contact card

Food & Nutrition

While meals are provided, bring extra for the trail and emergencies:

• High-calorie energy bars (6-8)
• Trail mix with chocolate (fats = warmth)
• Jerky or dried meat
• Nut butter packets
• Electrolyte powder
• Hot drink mix (tea, cocoa, instant coffee)
• Candy or gummies (quick sugar)

Winter Tip: Keep snacks in inner pockets so they don’t freeze solid.

Optional But Recommended

• Binoculars
• Field guides (wildlife tracks, trees)
• Journal and pen (ink pens work better in cold)
• Book(s) for evening
• Playing cards or games
• Thermos for hot beverages on trail
• Small down booties (lodge comfort)
• Eye drops (dry air)

DO NOT BRING

• ❌ Drones (illegal in national parks)
• ❌ Pets (not permitted)
• ❌ Cotton clothing (cotton kills in winter)
• ❌ Inadequate gear (this is not the time to “make do”)
• ❌ Alcohol for the trail (impairs judgment and warmth)
• ❌ Overconfidence (respect the environment)

Winter-Specific Reminders

Avalanche Check: Visit Avalanche.ca before departure and daily during your trip (we provide updates).

Layering Strategy: Start cool. You’ll warm up fast skiing/snowshoeing. Overheating = sweating = hypothermia later.

Hydration: You dehydrate faster in cold, dry air. Drink regularly even if you don’t feel thirsty.

Battery Care: Keep electronics and batteries warm. Store in inner pockets or sleeping bag at night.

Frostbite Watch: Know the signs. Check your extremities regularly.

Shorter Days: Plan around limited daylight. Sunset can be as early as 4:30 PM.

Pre-Trip Preparation

Training

• Multiple ski tours with full pack before arrival
• Practice avalanche transceiver searches
• Review avalanche safety procedures
• Build winter camping skills

Fitness

• Cardiovascular conditioning
• Leg strength training
• Core stability work

Research

• Check 10-day weather forecast
• Review current avalanche bulletin
• Confirm trail conditions with lodge
• Share your itinerary with emergency contact

Rental Options

Available at the lodge with advance booking:

• Snowshoes
• Avalanche safety equipment sets
• Emergency supplies

Contact us for availability and pricing.

Emergency Contacts

Lodge Satellite Phone: Emergency Use Only
Parks Canada Emergency: 403-762-1470
Avalanche Canada Hotline: 1-800-667-1105

Questions?

Winter travel requires experience and preparation. Contact us to discuss your skill level and any questions:

Email: stay@walcottlodge.com
Phone: +1 (403) 555-0100

Remember: In winter, there’s no such thing as bad weather, only inadequate gear. Be prepared, be safe, and respect the mountains.

Last Updated: October 2025
Walcott Lodge © 2025