When you consider winter, what involves thoughts? We’ll wager it’s extra of a ‘Netflix and takeaway’ vibe than it’s a ‘let’s get open air’ one. But with our new vary of winter lively journeys, we’re right here to persuade you that mountaineering isn’t simply for {the summertime}.
Ah, winter. A season like no different, particularly in nature. Sure, it may be harsh – low temperatures, freezing winds and snowstorms – but it surely can be pure magic. Think crisp air. Clear mountain views. Snow crunching underfoot on the forest ground. And one of the best ways to expertise all that winter nature has to supply is to be in it.
That’s why Intrepid has launched a brand new vary of Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing excursions forward of the northern hemisphere’s chilly season.
Why we love winter mountaineering
Hiking in winter brings a complete host of advantages that you just don’t get with a summer season sojourn. For starters, you get to see iconic surroundings in a very new mild. “One of the benefits of hiking in winter is gaining a different perspective – even on a familiar trail,” says Radek Nowak, Intrepid’s Walking & Trekking Product Manager and professional in all actions that contain strolling within the nice open air.
Plus, not many hikers are prepared to overcome the paths within the depths of winter. The benefits of this are two-fold: no crowds means there’s assured to be loads of elbow room in your walks (and no traces for picture ops!), and also you additionally get additional bragging rights for taking the more durable, less-travelled street.
We’ll carry the experience, you simply carry your self
Organising a winter-time journey may be tough by yourself. “Winter logistics are different and often more complex,” says Radek. “There are less public transport connections, mountain roads can be closed or blocked, and many local hotels close for the low season.” That’s the place Intrepid is available in. We have an intensive community of consultants and loads of experiences in numerous areas, which makes it simpler for us to navigate these circumstances.
You don’t even should have professional gear or years of mountaineering expertise to enroll (although a base stage of health definitely helps). Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned professional, our skilled native leaders are readily available to assist make your journey as protected and seamless as doable, from renting the required tools to monitoring climate circumstances and security hazards, serving to you connect and practise strolling with snowshoes or crampons and organising one of the best refuel meals (winter mountaineering actually does take it out of you). Intrepid will even assist you to along with your packing listing.
And when the lengthy, chilly mountaineering days end, all that’s left to do is discover a heat spot, snuggle in and get cosy. “Having a glass of mulled wine in front of a fire after a long hiking day is a dream,” says Radek. ”And don’t neglect a couple of good dinner to refuel and restore all of the power used, as tomorrow, one other lovely mountaineering day awaits.”
Our six new winter mountaineering and snowshoeing excursions
1. Discover the great thing about Mount Toubkal, 7 days
This journey takes you from the bustle of Marrakech as much as the ‘roof of North Africa’, the gorgeous snow-capped Mount Toubkal within the Atlas Mountains. Fuel your self with conventional Moroccan home made meals as you journey along with your professional crew (plus a pack of mules!). Radek has executed this journey, and in his personal phrases: “It was fantastic and I loved every bit of it. The celebration dinner in Aroumd (where we stay after climbing Toubkal and Ouanoukrim) is the best I ever had.”
2. Spot animals within the wilderness close to Mt Rainier, 5 days
In the winter months, you’re extra more likely to spot an animal than one other vacationer in Washington’s Mt Rainier National Park – in order that’s what you need to do. Keep your eyes peeled for creatures within the wild as you hike the mild terrain beneath the watchful peaks of the Continental Divide.
3. Walk rim to rim within the Grand Canyon, 6 days
Sleep below the celebrities on this very particular small group mountaineering journey. See each rims of the world’s most well-known canyon in a approach few folks do – within the clear calm of winter. Expect to see waterfalls, Native American ruins, field canyons and extra.
4. See Yosemite – minus the crowds, 4 days
Yosemite National Park takes on a silent magnificence within the colder months, and this highlight-packed hike enables you to soak up one of the best of it. Better but? There’s no must tough it. Each night time finishes with you good and cosy in your shiny Airstream trailer.
5. Explore the winter wonderland that’s Yellowstone, 5 days
Cross snow-covered meadows, cross frozen waterfalls and soak up world-famous geysers on this quick however oh-so-special hike by way of one of many world’s most adored nationwide parks. Sleep in cosy lodges and relaxation simple realizing all of your meals, gear and transportation is taken care of.
6. Take within the winter stillness of the Rocky Mountains, 4 days
Enjoy the solitude that winter brings in Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park. Spot elk, lynx and even the uncommon wolverine in your every day hikes earlier than settling in to get pleasure from cosy lodging and attractive meals along with your group every night.
Keen to place your finest meals ahead? Check out our full vary of Hiking & Snowshoeing Tours & Holidays.