Dolly Sods Winter Backpacking
2 long days and one night of winter backpacking in Dolly Sods. First time doing a serious cold weather overnighter and everything went pretty smoothly once we crossed a few freezing streams. The trails are extremely difficult to follow in the winter so make sure you have a phone or something else you can see your location on. Only saw about 5 people the entire time.
Tips for Backpacking in the Cold
- Trekking poles were a must for crossing icey rocks, streams, and frozen snow.
- A serious winter rated camping pad like a therm-a-rest neoair xtherm is absolutely worth it. Paired with a low degree bag it was actually too hot.
- Our water purification gear froze and luckily we had some extra fuel to boil water instead.
- Crossing streams barefoot is brutal, but always better than having wet boots.
- Always pack yourself a treat for the end of the day. Wine, cheese, candybars, etc. will never taste better than they do at the end of these kid of days.
Route
Day 1
Day 2
Photos
