Winter camping invites us into a quieter, more intimate version of the outdoors. Snow-covered landscapes reveal tracks, patterns, and moments we rarely notice in warmer months. But winter is also a demanding season for wildlife, and traveling thoughtfully helps keep both people and animals safe. Know Who’s Still Active Many animals reduce their activity during winter, but they don’t disappear. Deer, elk, foxes, and coyotes continue to forage, while smaller mammals often become more visible again...

With a friend in town it was time to explore some trails that offered great views, and a variety of trail options to choose from based on time/distance, and weather. Nestled just north of Boulder, the Corral Trailhead at Heil Valley Ranch is a standout gateway into one of the region’s most beloved trail networks for both hikers and mountain bikers. This trailhead delivers a quintessential Colorado hiking experience — a blend of shady ponderosa forests, open grassland meadows, rocky ridge lines, ...

Staying warm is one of the biggest challenges of cold-weather camping—but it doesn’t mean you have to haul a mountain of gear. With smart planning, layering, and efficient use of equipment, you can stay comfortable in winter or off-season conditions without overpacking. Layer Smartly Layering is the key to regulating body temperature. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat off your skin. Add an insulating mid-layer, such as fleece or down, and finish with a waterproof, windproof ...

Winter camping has a way of slowing everything down. Quiet trails, long nights, and snow-muted landscapes invite a more intentional pace. For many campers, the appeal isn’t about pushing limits—it’s about simplicity and solitude. But winter doesn’t forgive autopilot. Most mistakes happen when we bring three-season habits into a season that plays by different rules. Thinking Cold Is Just “Cooler” Cold isn’t just a lower number on the thermometer—it’s a constant presence that affects energy, decis...

A Slower Season, A Different Approach Off-season camping offers quieter campsites, lower costs, and a slower pace—but it also asks us to travel a little differently. Many of the challenges campers face outside peak season come from treating fall or winter trips like summer outings. With a few thoughtful adjustments and some advance planning, these common missteps are easy to avoid. Be Prepared for Changing Weather One of the most frequent mistakes is underestimating the weather. Off-season condi...