Things You'll Need:
- Waterproof Mittens
- Waterproof Gloves
- Backpacking Stoves
- Camp-stove Fuels
- Four-season Sleeping Bag
- Skis
- Snow Shovels
- Snow Stakes
- Snowshoes
- Winter Backpacking Tents
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Step 1
Avoid choosing a site with trees overhead that may dump snow on you during the night. Also stay away from nearby slopes that may be prone to avalanches.
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Step 2
Stomp around the area where you plan to pitch your tent, preferably wearing your snowshoes or skis, to create a firm table of snow. This is also known as "tamping," and will prevent you and your tent from sinking into the snow once you crawl inside your tent.
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Step 3
Melt snow on your camp stove and pour the water over the area if the snow is particularly fluffy and soft.
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Step 4
Smooth the melted snow out so that it is as flat as possible. Wait about 30 minutes for it to harden before pitching your tent.
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Step 5
Stomp down the area around your tent as well so that you can move about freely without wearing skis or snowshoes.
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Step 6
Use a winter tent specially designed to withstand winds and the weight of accumulated snow, and stake your tent down using snow stakes.
