Someone knowledgeable about winter trekking is critically important

I've done most of my winter trekking and camping in beautiful New England, already a remote and beautiful place, but doubly so when the temperatures dip well below zero and snow covers the landscape.

My first overnight excursions were snowshoe trips with experienced winter campers into a remote log cabin in Maine. Going with someone knowledgeable about winter trekking is critically important when you're a novice. They can help with your gear list, plan a reasonably distanced overnight or day excursion, and give you practical tips and guidance along the way.

The roads also make it easier to pull a sled, instead of hauling all your gear in a backpack. An expedition sled, or pulk, can run upwards of $600, but you can easily build your own using a heavyweight plastic sled, small PVC piping and some rope.So never mind the drudgery of winter at home. Drop that snow shovel and get out to the backcountry. You'll be glad you did.