2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Camping AND Hiking in winter, March 3, 2008
This review is from: The Winter Camping Handbook: Wilderness Travel & Adventure in the Cold-Weather Months, Updated Edition (Paperback)
I've emphasized the hiking part of the subtitle, because over half the book covers traveling on ice and snow, not just staying in place at a camp. Both stopping and going are important of course, and this book is an excellent survey of both subjects.
There is information about proper clothing for hiking, skiing and snowboarding, including equipment for snow shoeing and climbing over rocky terrain. Another chapter covers navigating, food and nutrition and traveling in groups.
Gorman is especially good on details; choosing a sleeping bag involves understanding quality of fill, shape, size both in action and on the ground, and temperature ratings. Water is a major consideration; we emit at least a pint of water sleeping in the cold.
Gorman recently gave an interesting interview to the "Concord Monitor" which introduces beginners to winter camping. High points include:
"The first time out winter camping, it is not such a bad idea to not go really far out into the back country. Going to a state park or national forest campground just off the road is a good way to shake things down, do everything right before going on a longer trip.
"During that first close outing, do jumping jacks or mild exercises - stretches, too - to warm up before getting into that sleeping bag. Don't worry, campgrounds are less crowded in winter, so don't be shy. Trying out that new stove? Use it in the evening to make yourself a hot water bottle, close it securely and place it in the bottom of the sleeping bag as added warmth. Then heat that water in the morning for coffee.
"Wear a cap to sleep, and be sure your clothing is dry. Feel comfortable layering clothing. That's a natural thermostat and can help you maintain your comfort level.
"Before you go, learn to plan ahead. In winter, many public parks and campgrounds are closed. Those that remain open often have limited services - like no water - and some require contacting the park before venturing in. Private campgrounds tend to have more services."
Gorman's book is an revised and updated edition of Gorman's highly regarded
Amc Guide to Winter Camping: Wilderness Travel and Adventure in the Cold-Weather Months. I've looked at the glowing Amazon reviews of the previous edition. This revised edition is significantly better.
Gorman is an enthusiast; join him if you want to "explore the winter wilderness and experience the joys of winter."
Robert C. Ross 2008
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5.0 out of 5 stars
Winter Camping, January 10, 2012
This review is from: The Winter Camping Handbook: Wilderness Travel & Adventure in the Cold-Weather Months, Updated Edition (Paperback)
This is a fantastic book that I should have purchased a long time ago.
It is an older book but it doesn not matter because the concepts and technology are pretty much the same. Down is still the warmest thing and sweat and wet clothes are still the enemy.
I sometimes have to do a winter camp trip with the souts and my son and this book has given me some great advice.
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5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent, experienced advice on winter camping, November 25, 2011
This review is from: The Winter Camping Handbook: Wilderness Travel & Adventure in the Cold-Weather Months, Updated Edition (Paperback)
I have been winter camping for 35 years and I think this book is excellent.
This is not the usual book that simply suggests buying the latest gear and is light on details. Author Steven Gorman is obviously has a lot of real life winter camping experience and he shares it richly in this book.
I appreciate the variety of information and the level of detail in this book. Gorman discusses the various types of equipment from natural fibers to synthetics and he discusses the advantages and disadvantages of each both from a theoretic standpoint as well as from a practical standpoint based on experience.
Discussions on stoves and gear is precise and well-thought.
The book discusses modes of winter transportation (skis, showshoes, etc,) and how to carry your gear.
I mm not going to re-write the book here, just say that this is an excellent book on winter camping that includes good. practical, advise on winter camping that will help you keep safe and have fun without shlepping too much gear into the wilderness.
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