Beacon Hill's Appalachian Mountain Club Reveals Perils and Joys of Winter Hiking

Outdoor recreationalists attended the final of four information workshops earlier this week at Cabot Auditorium on Joy St. The workshops, hosted by the Appalachian Mountain Club, are a series of information sessions designed to educate members on the "how-to's" of hiking and camping in the worst winter conditions.

"The winter hiking program runs out of the Boston chapter of the AMC," said Abby Driscoll, co-coordinator of the winter hiking program. "The organization not only does outdoor trips, they do advocation and conservation awareness as well. It's a chance to learn the basics of how to prepare for hiking in the winter. "

To kick off the meeting, a case study was presented to the members. The case study outlined a situation where hikers in extreme conditions became separated on the mountain.  The attendees were asked to read the study and then present their ideas on what the fictional people in the study should have done to prevent this dangerous situation.

The workshop leaders then revealed the cardinal rule of hiking: Never let anyone go off by themselves and always stay together.

Ryan Stefuik, hiking guide with New York based Alpine Endeavors, outlined how different wind patterns affect weather, especially here in New England. He also presented information on how to prevent triggering avalanches when hiking off the trails.

"I hope people are able to use the wind and weather cues and the information provided to make the best decisions possible, and being aware of some of the factors that may contribute to an avalanche," said Stefuik.

Other guides then presented information on the early warning signs of frostbite and hypothermia, and the pros and cons of different winter hiking and camping gear.

"People need to know what to wear, what to bring, how to hydrate and what to eat. A lot of it is the gear because its different than 3-season gear. There's more of it and different kinds of gear," said Driscoll.

"You never know what it's going to be like until you get out there. This class gives people a lot of information about how to prepare for different situations, and helps prepare people so they can feel confident when they get out there. The whole idea is you're learning by doing in an environment where you can ask any question you want and get expert advice," she said.

But while there's a serious side to hiking, there's a social side as well.  

"You meet a lot of great people doing this," Driscoll confessed.  "It's different than going to a bar or restaurant and socializing with people.  You really connect with people out there because you're on a mission together. You form a bond naturally that way. You don't even realize you're doing it. Everyone has to help each other out. It's real team building."

The club is offering hiking and camping excursions throughout the winter in all different New England locales. Check out their Website to see how you can get out and start enjoying the New England winter.