Safety
Yellowstone winters are magical. Steaming hot springs create surreal landscapes, tracks in the snow tell stories of elk, wolves, bison…whether we see the animal or not, we know they have passed this way. Winter is a wonderful time to visit Yellowstone, but it can be an unforgiving season, too.
It is not usually one thing that causes an accident rather a series of small but poor decisions. Poor decisions often occur when we are uncomfortable… in winter that can mean being wet and cold or even just nervous. To minimize the possibility of problems the most important thing is to 'have a plan'.
I follow these steps to be prepared for the winter season:
1. Ask yourself 'what if'.
What if a ski tip breaks? What if I get a flat tire? What if we need to stop—either along the road or on a trail—for a long length of time? Do we have the gear to survive.
The time to be asking ourselves these questions is not on the trail but safe at home when we are relaxing, perhaps with friends.
2. The purpose of 'what ifs' is to make a plan.
The plan is not necessarily the same for all of us, but whatever it is, the plan needs to be one that ensures survival—somewhat comfortably if possible—for all group members. If you plan to be traveling in a group, have your buddies over and make a plan together. Sharing gear will minimize weight, but it is important to then stick together so all items are available to all group members.
3. Pack the gear to accomplish your plan.
Decide what items you need to carry in your pack, on your snowmobile or in your car. Pack survival gear for your car or snowmobile and keep it with the vehicle the entire season, replacing any items that are used. For skiing, snowshoeing or hiking, keep a daypack ready with the items you need. Always consider the length of the proposed outing—what you think you need for a ½ mile walk may be very different than what you want to have with you for a 10 mile ski trip in severe weather.
4. Communication!
It is most important to communicate with your group: before the trip everyone should be clear about the goals, distance and difficulty. During the trip talk out options and ask for input so that group members understand the reasons for and are willing to abide by decisions.
5. Words to live by:
The group is as strong as its weakest member. Don't rely on others because they may be relying on you.
Suggested Equipment:
Clothing and Personal Equipment:
- Dress in layers, be willing to stop to add/take off layers to prevent overheating or getting too cold
- Insulating Underwear: Capilene, polypropylene or wool blend underwear – no cotton
- Mid-weight Insulating Layer: polypro or wool layers – no cotton
- Heavyweight Insulating Layer: wool, down, heavy-weight fleece or other synthetic fabric. Heavy winter coat will suffice for less active pursuits. No cotton
- Waterproof/windproof Outer Layer: jacket and pants
- Extra Warm Layer: Vest, warm jacket for stopping
- Gloves, mittens—an extra pair, plus a waterproof/windproof layer over all
- Socks: light wool or synthetic liner sock with heavier wool or synthetic outer sock. No cotton.
- Hat: Headband, wool or polypro hat
- Insulated Boots: water repellent outside, thick insulation.
- Gaiters—optional: gaiters cover boots and keep snow out of your shoes
Vehicle Emergency Kit:
- Flashlight (preferable headlamp) with extra batteries
- Fire building kit (wax paper, candles, fire paste or starter—Vaseline-coated dryer lint works well—aluminum foil (creates a dry spot on snow or ground on which to build fire), waterproof matches
- Space blanket
- Extra gloves/mittens, hat, socks, boots
- Extra sleeping bag or blanket
- Heat packs/handwarmers
- Food/water (thermos of warm liquid packed day of travel)
- Pocket knife or multi-purpose Leatherman type tool
Suggested Pack Contents for Day Trip:
- Repair kit: if skiing or snowshoeing
- Insulated vest/jacket (extra layer to keep warm when stopping)
- Extra food plus the day's food
- Water bottle/s (carry upside down to prevent cap from freezing): Drink little, drink often!
- Flashlight with extra batteries (preferably a headlamp)
- Toilet paper (carry extra baggies to carry out used toilet paper. Do not burn, bury or leave toilet paper under a rock!)
- Waterproof matches
- Wind/waterproof jacket and pants
- Spare hat: ball cap for sun, wool or polypro hat for warmth
- Spare gloves and socks
- Compass
- Map
- First aid kit
- Lip balm
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Sitting pad
- Space blanket