What kind of temps are you expecting? Hiking in snow?

Make sure you have a sleeping bag that has a very low degree rating. In the winter, I have used the same tent but was able to put a small tarp under it, over the snow. A warm dog and/or camping buddy is always recommended. For hiking in snow, I wear the same pants I do snowboarding. A lot of people love gaiters, but I do not personally own any. I use the same hiking boots in winter as summer. I have a pair of Yaktrax, which really help for icy/slick spots, as do a pair of trekking poles. As always, lots of layers are great. I love that you're asking this question. Not many consider hiking in the winter. I love it because it is just as beautiful, but there are not as many people on the trails.

I've become less inclined to camping in snow the last couple of years- though I still love day hiking in it. = )

But I would say, a good inflatable sleeping pad combined with a low temp bag makes a huge difference...the pad really breaks up the cold seeping up from the ground. I don't normally use hiking poles, but find they can be very helpful when trekking thru snow. High quality socks that are warm and wick well are also a must for me (personally like rei expedition socks). Hmm...great idea, Joni, about the snow boarding pants.

Make sure you have a sleeping bag that has a very low degree rating. In the winter, I have used the same tent but was able to put a small tarp under it, over the snow. A warm dog and/or camping buddy is always recommended. For hiking in snow, I wear the same pants I do snowboarding. A lot of people love gaiters, but I do not personally own any. I use the same hiking boots in winter as summer. I have a pair of Yaktrax, which really help for icy/slick spots, as do a pair of trekking poles. As always, lots of layers are great. I love that you're asking this question. Not many consider hiking in the winter. I love it because it is just as beautiful, but there are not as many people on the trails.

How do you think Yaktrax compare to Stablicers? I've heard they are cheaper but aren't as durible. What are you thoughts?

You are in NH, I know on Tuckerman's Ravine they have small sleeping cabins halfway up. Maybe you can find something like that?

Yes! Layers is key. Make sure you have good underwear that will both keep you warm and transport moisture. I usually don't take mine off ever when hiking during the winter, since they are excellent as pyjamas as well.

Also, for sleeping, you need a good sleeping bag AND a good sleeping mat. If one of them is not good enough, the other one won't be able to do it's job. Sheets for sleeping bags and sleeping bag covers might also be a good idea when in doubt. The latter also protects agains fire, wich you can use to stay warmer during the night (only with constant supervision!)

I have som tips that I use to save on space in my backpack, if I get cold when I go to sleep. For example, you can take your jacket and button in up around you on the outside of the sleepingbag like an extra blanket. I get cold feet so I like to empty my bag en then put my feet (when in sleeping bag) into it. Mine holds about 60 l and reaches about mid thigh. It's not supercomfy, but will help with creating another layer to stay warm.

Also, snow isolates good, and it's not actually as cold to sleep on snow as you think. A lot of the time it's better than without snow. It comfy too!

Good luck on your adventure. I hope this helps!

Something I haven't seen mentioned is a sleeping bag liner. I love using my liner, as it makes my bag just a few degrees warmer, which can make a difference on a cold night. And it's washable, so my sleeping bag doesn't get as smelly!

Also, if you keep a water bottle in your tent overnight (hydration is incredibly important in cold weather...), turn it upside down for storage. That way if/when ice starts to form, it won't keep the lid from opening.

Have fun. Post some pictures!

I don't know if this is a weird question, but is it realistic to expect one's winter traction device to be usable for running as well?
For instance, does anyone have enough experience w/ the microspikes, yaktrax and stabilicers to have tried them for both their hiking boots and running shoes? I was assuming it would not work since my running shoes are so much less bulky than my boots, but then again these are adjustable traction devices...

Any thoughts on this would be appreciated...:flowerforyou:

I have both YakTrax and Microspikes. The Microspikes are MUCH more aggresive and i can't see running in them (due to the points, not the rubber that attaches to your shoes) unless you were running on a good layer of ice. I've run many miles in my YakTrax and they're wonderful for running, IMO but not so much for hiking. Much more prone to breaking with the rougher terrain and the grip is not aggressive enough for really sure footing on steep hills, IMO.

YakTrax are cheap though so if you are looking to try something out for running, shovelling, etc, they are the ones to get.

(my microspikes)