Before the afternoon skills instruction and after we have confirmed our location at Hidden Lake, it is time to drop the packs, layer up to stay warm, dig out our “foodies” and electrolyte drinks, and continue to talk “trail safety!”

Lunchtime possible topics of discussion:

• • Why, how, and where to sit in the snow (so you don’t get wet and cold!)
  • Why you need to drink what you brought
  • Why you need to eat more than sugar (fatty foods are important to digest in the winter cold)
  • The vital importance of a hot meal in a cold environment
  • Monitoring your feet for blisters and wetness
  • Rotating out wet clothing
  • Sanitation rules (we will be out on the snow all day, after all!)
  • Powder snow vs Consolidated snow vs Afternoon or Post-Thaw snow, hazards and their mitigation
  • Ascent, Descent and Traversing techniques: Why, How, Explained
  • Post-Thaw creek crossing dangers: Why, How, Explained
  • Finding water in the snow: lakes, creeks, or boiling
  • Snow Hazards, dangers, and critters