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Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

Many people think winter camping is something impossible or extreme. But in reality, as long as you have the right gear and plan ahead, it can be a fun way to get your friends together outside in the off-season.

The biggest thing about winter camping is to be prepared. If you’re a beginner winter camper, choose a location that’s easy to get to and plan a single night trip, so you can fine-tune your systems and have an easy out in case of anything unexpected.

Want to give it a try? Here are 26 things to keep in mind for your winter camping trip:

## What to pack


1. Start with a gear list – you don’t want to forget anything, especially if it’s something you need to keep warm. Take a look at our [backpacking checklist](/en/article/backpacking-checklist) and [ski touring checklist](/en/article/ski-touring-checklist) for ideas on what to bring.

2. Pack plenty of warm layers, including clean, dry layers to sleep in. Are you someone who’s always cold? Read more tips on [staying warm and sleeping warm](/en/explore/staying-warm-and-sleeping-warm).

3. Avoid clothes made of cotton and go for synthetic or merino wool [base layers](/en/products/clothing/base-layers-and-underwear/c/1053) instead. [Wool is an excellent material](/en/explore/wool-garments-for-the-outdoors) that keeps you warm and traps heat, which makes it a great choice for damp conditions.

4. Wear [waterproof boots](/en/ideal-for/camping-and-hiking/products/footwear/boots/c/1189?q=%3Asales-rank&text=) that have soles with solid traction for snowy trails.

5. [Hand and toe warmers](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/health-and-safety/hand-and-toe-warmers/c/1212?q=%3Asales-rank) are excellent ways to keep fingers and feet warm.

## Making a fire
6. If you plan to make a fire, come prepared with [fire starters](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/kitchen/stoves%2c-fuel-and-fire/fire-starters%2c-matches-and-lighters/c/1282?q=%3Asales-rank), wood, paper and an extra lighter.

7. Make sure to bring enough wood – don’t underestimate how cold it can get during the winter! Since winter is the off-season at many campgrounds, services can be limited in some parks so there may not be wood for sale. Some parks sell wood at their visitor centres since it’s forbidden to gather wood in most parks.

8. If your campsite is far away from the parking area or trailhead, bring a sled to drag in your wood and supplies.

9. Dig a hole in the snow to help keep your fire from collapsing when the snow melts. Using a fire pan is a good alternative (see [Leave No Trace](http://www.leavenotrace.ca/principle-minimize-campfire-impacts) for info).

## Sleeping warm
10. Use a [foam pad](/en/sleeping-pad-type/foam-pad/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/sleeping-bags%2c-sleeping-pads%2c-quilts-and-pillows/sleeping-pads/c/1416?q=%3Asales-rank&text=) under your [inflatable sleeping pad](/en/sleeping-pad-type/self_._inflating+insulated/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/sleeping-bags%2c-sleeping-pads%2c-quilts-and-pillows/sleeping-pads/c/1416?q=%3Asales-rank&text=) for added warmth. It also doubles as a good seat that won’t get soggy in the snow. (Find out how to [choose a sleeping pad](/en/explore/about-sleeping-pads).)

11. Depending on the expected temperatures, bring a [sleeping bag](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/sleeping-bags%2c-sleeping-pads%2c-quilts-and-pillows/sleeping-bags/c/1410?f=CFseasons%3AWinter+%28-40%C2%B0C+to+-15%C2%B0C%29) rated for winter camping (-15°C to -40°C). Get tips on [choosing a sleeping bag](/en/explore/choose-your-sleeping-bag).

12. Use a [sleeping bag liner](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/sleeping-bags%2c-sleeping-pads%2c-quilts-and-pillows/sleeping-bag-liners/c/1406) in your sleeping bag for a bit of extra warmth.

13. Create your own hot water bottle:





16. Condensation and snow can make your tent and sleeping bag damp. When you get home from your trip, make sure to dry out all your gear very well before you pack it up. This prevents mildew and is [good tent care](/en/explore/how-to-care-for-your-tent).

## Meal time


13. Bring extra fuel, since you’ll likely be melting snow for water. [White gas stoves](/en/product/5020-289/946ml-unit-%2832fl-oz%29-Stove-Fuel) work well in freezing cold temperatures.

14. Make sure you bring meals that are quick and easy to prepare (single pot options or just add hot water [freeze-dried meals](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/food-and-drink/entrees/c/1180?q=%3Asales-rank) are good ideas). Cooking and cleaning up in mitts can be challenging!

## Setting up your campsite


15. Bring a [small shovel](/en/products/gear/snowsports-gear/avalanche-and-backcountry-safety-gear/avalanche-shovels-and-saws/c/802) to clear the snow for your tent site. Dig an area in the snow for your tent to help protect you from the wind. Packing down snow under your tent gives you an even sleeping surface, and you won’t sink down into the snow at night.

16. Make sure you give yourself enough time to organize your campsite, since you’ll be doing some snow shoveling. Start preparing your site at least an hour and a half before sunset so that you won’t be caught in the dark.

17. Use a [four-season tent](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/tents-and-shelters/c/1436?f=CFtentsSeasons%3A4-season).

18. Bring a [tarp](/en/ideal-for/camping-and-hiking/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/tents-and-shelters/tarps%2c-shelters-and-bothy-bags/c/1441?q=%3Asales-rank&text=) to cover anything that will remain outside at night in case it snows.

19. When you [select your tent site](/en/explore/choosing-a-tent-site), make sure you’re not under any tree branches heavy with snow.

## Extra tips


23. Don’t forget [lighting](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/lighting-and-headlamps/c/1296?q=%3Asales-rank) (lanterns, headlamps and candles are a must) and extra [batteries](/en/products/gear/electronics/batteries-and-chargers/alkaline-batteries/c/1114?q=%3Asales-rank).

24. If you want to keep your backpack light, bring [water treatment](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/water-bottles-and-filters/water-treatment/water-treatments-and-tablets/c/1243) and melt snow instead of packing in water.

25. All electronic equipment loses power faster in the cold. Try portable power packs like the easily transportable [Goal Zero](/en/product/5043-188/Flip-10-Recharger). They work great!

26. Bring [camp chairs](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/camp-and-beach-furniture/chairs-and-chair-kits/c/1434), blankets or your closed-foam pad so that you don’t have to sit directly on the snow. It’s the best way to avoid freezing your buns.

For a full list of what to bring winter camping, see our [winter camping gear checklist](/en/explore/winter-camping-gear-checklist).

*Wherever you go, always leave a trip plan. If your destination takes you into the backcountry, make sure you have all the appropriate winter backcountry [safety essentials](/en/article/ski-touring-checklist) and avalanche training. And of course, remember to follow [Leave No Trace principles](http://www.leavenotrace.ca/principles) – they apply year-round.*



Want to camp year-round? Check out these helpful tips for camping in the snow, from how to stay warm at night to what kind of food and gear to pack.

Winter camping tips: 26 things beginners should know | MEC Blog

Winter camping tips: 26 things beginners should know

As more and more people take up running each year, running when it’s cold and snowy out is also gaining in popularity. One of the advantages of running in winter is that the snow creates an uneven running surface that gives your stabilizing muscles an extra workout, while also cushioning every step. The challenges? Cold temps and slippery surfaces that can increase your risk of falling.

Here’s a quick look at some gear to consider for winter running to help you stay safe and enjoy your run in the snow. When you do head out, make sure to [layer up](/en/explore/clothing-layers) properly, too.

### Wear grippy running shoes




When you’re running in winter, traction is key. Your best ally to keep you from falling is what’s on your feet. Look for trail running shoes with lugs on the soles for solid traction (the number and size of the lugs vary from one brand of shoe to the next). Also look for waterproof shoes (or at least water-resistant) made with GORE-TEX® or similar type membrane to help keep your feet comfortable. When the snow clears, you can use your trail running shoes to explore park paths, or maybe even one of the many trail running races across Canada.



If you already own running shoes but they have bad traction, pair them with some traction devices (sometimes called microspikes or by the brand name [Yaktrax](/en/brand/yaktrax/products/footwear/traction-devices/c/1204)). This is a great option if you like your running shoes and don’t want to buy a new, grippier pair. There are many different options for traction devices: some are very versatile and can be used on many types of terrain, from forest trails to icy city sidewalks. If you plan to run only on trails, look for very sharp, pointy traction spikes that will bite into the packed snow and frozen ground.



If you plan to run mostly in forests or on snow-covered trails, you can opt for running snowshoes. These are typically lighter and narrower than regular snowshoes. They’re also equipped with a pivot that lets your feet to move more freely for a comfortable stride. When you’re using these snowshoes, we recommend that you wear waterproof trail running shoes or running shoes. If you don’t have any waterproof shoes, look into some [GORE-TEX socks](/en/product/4000-338/Stretch-GORE-TEX-Oversocks) to wear over thin socks. That way, your feet will stay dry even if your shoes don’t.



If running is part of your daily or weekly routine all year-round, you may want to pick up a running backpack. It’s a smart way to carry some extra layers, water and some snacks (and is also a place to stash layers as you warm up). The most important thing when you choose a running backpack is to make sure that it bounces around as little as possible. Look for one that’s not too big (5L is a good place to start) and fits the shape of your back well. Try out several backpacks in store so you find the right one for you.



Running in the winter isn’t limited to the city. A huge variety of trails that work for summer running can also be awesome options for winter running. Want some tips on where to run? Visit a MEC store and get advice from our experts, or check out some [maps](/en/products/gear/books%2c-maps-and-dvds/maps/c/936?q=%3Asales-rank) and [guidebooks](/en/products/gear/books%2c-maps-and-dvds/guidebooks/c/932?q=%3Asales-rank) for inspiration.



## Related articles
- [How to choose trail runners](/en/explore/choose-your-trail-runners)
- [What’s the best running watch for you?](/en/article/whats-the-best-running-watch-for-you)
- [How to start trail running: tips for road runners](/en/article/how-to-start-trail-running-tips-for-road-runners)



Find out what gear you need for winter running so you can get outside, along with tips on how to find places to run.

How to start winter running: tips and gear

I ride bikes, but until recently, they weren’t the mountain kind. Instead, they were the ones that require shaved legs, a superhero outfit, clip-in shoes and paved roads. But after some convincing from fellow MEC staffers to give this whole mountain biking thing a try, I found myself slowly pedalling an enormous bike up a climbing trail for the first time ever.

What did I learn on the trails? A lot. There were many things I was surprised to discover about mountain biking, and a few tips I wish someone had passed along before I dropped in for the first time. To help all the beginner mountain bikers out there, I asked MEC staffers and riders what they wish they’d known before day one of shredding.

So here it is: the first-timer’s guide to mountain biking (that I wish I had many months ago).

### 1. Don’t stress
Watch any mountain bike video, and you’ll assume it’s only for those with high-octane energy beverages in their blood. But that’s not true at all. Sure, the best riders are talented maniacs, but for the rest of us, mountain biking represents something really fun. I learned that with almost any trail network, there’s something for everyone. Yes, for the first while you’ll be cruising green and blue trails – but who cares? If you stick with it, you’ll look back fondly on the green and blue days of your mountain bike youth.

### 2. Trust the bike
You’ll be amazed at what a modern, [full-suspension mountain bike](/en/ideal-for/cycling+mountain-biking/products/gear/cycling-gear/bikes/mountain-bikes/c/1527?q=%3Asales-rank) can handle. When you come across obstacles and trail sections that make you pause, trust the bike. Chances are you’ll be blown away by how easily a mountain bike handles gnarly, rough looking terrain when you let it do the work for you (especially compared to your commuter bike that bumps through gravel and potholes). Note: this tip assumes you’re either renting, borrowing or have purchased a *competent* trail bike.

### 3. Don’t be bummed when a 10-year-old passes you
Trust me. It’s going to happen. You’ll be “flying” down a trail, feeling like a true hero, in-tune with your surroundings and the bike between your legs. All of a sudden, a very small child will squeak, “On your left!” and dart past you with feline-like precision and grace. This is normal. Do not be disheartened, and focus on where you’re at (this will keep you stoked and prevent you from bailing).

### 4. Bring a repair kit
Flat tires and mechanicals happen to everyone. Few things are more demoralizing than walking your bike with a flat tire or broken chain back to the parking lot, so kit up with the right [bike tools](/en/ideal-for/mountain-biking/products/gear/cycling-gear/bike-tools-and-maintenance/bike-tools/c/856?q=%3Asales-rank&text=) and a [pump](/en/products/gear/cycling-gear/bicycle-pumps/mini-bike-pumps/c/1387).

### 5. Rest. Rest you need.
You might be the 328th-most-fit person in your province, but you’re still bound to feel the burn. I thought I’d be fine as a seasoned roadie, yet I was absolutely shattered after 45 minutes. Expect your forearms to get exhausted from braking, and your legs to feel like ground meat after a 5-minute run. The solution? Take breaks. Riding with pumped-out arms isn’t just exhausting, it can be dangerous (grabbing a handful of brake lever with pooped arms can lead to aggressive over-braking). Stretch, sip some water, and give yourself a few before you tackle another stretch of singletrack.

### 6. Use the buddy system
A patient friend or guide can make a huge difference to keep your stoke-level high and prevent you from getting in over your head. Just be sure that they don’t mind easing up the pace, waiting for you, and showing you the ropes. Which brings up another good point…



### 7. Don’t fake it
Just because you’ve ridden on gravel roads or through the park doesn’t make you a mountain biker. If someone asks if you’ve ever been riding, don’t lie. For one, they’ll know within 30 seconds, but there’s also a chance you’ll get in over your head. “Fake it till you make it” is a great motto for certain things in life, but mountain biking isn’t one of them.

### 8. Appreciate the difficulty
If you’re cross-country riding, you may have to walk your bike up tricky, technical climbs. When riding more aggressive trails, you might be spooked by certain features or sections. Don’t worry! Mountain bike skills take time to develop. Ease into it, appreciate the challenge and trust that you’ll improve over time.

### 9. Don’t film yourself (yet)
When you’re cruising flowy singletrack, you may feel like you’re travelling at warp speed – effortlessly darting through berms and across gnarly sections of root and rock. And when you hit that jump? You were *flying*! Truth is, it might have looked a little like the “sweet jumps” scene from *Napoleon Dynamite*. And that’s okay. Do yourself a favour, and save the video footage for when you’re just a little further down the line. (When you are ready to cut some sick edits, we’ve got [video stuff](/en/ideal-for/mountain-biking/products/gear/snowsports-gear/pov-helmet-cameras/c/1150?q=%3Asales-rank&text=) to make it happen.)

### 10. Wear the right gear
That old helmet you’ve been using for commuting and weekend riding since 2005? It’s no good, especially not for trail riding. Make sure you wear a solid [helmet](/en/ideal-for/mountain-biking/products/gear/cycling-gear/bike-helmets/c/1509?q=%3Asales-rank&text=) designed for mountain biking. On top of that, [armour](/en/products/gear/cycling-gear/body-armour/c/797) is a good idea. If you do happen to go over the bars or slide out in a berm, you’ll be thankful for the extra protection.

### 11. Wear good shoes
Something with grippy tread is best, like trail runners or trainers (you don’t need to invest in [mountain bike shoes](/en/ideal-for/cycling+mountain-biking/products/footwear/c/1184?q=%3Asales-rank) for your first rides). They’ll give you a touch more grip on the pedals – most pedals feature aggressive pins to help keep your feet in place – and you’ll appreciate the traction when you hike the bike up or down hairy sections. Also expect your shoes to get very, very dirty. Best not to wear your most stylish kicks.

### 12. Realize the power of demo rides
Trying to decide which new bike is the right one for you? It’s a great idea to take a bike you’ve got your eye on for a test ride to get a solid feel for how it rides. Some bike events and trail areas host demo days, which gives you the chance to try different bikes to help you narrow down your decision on what bike to get.

### 13. Keep your bike dialled
Mountain biking puts a bike through its paces. As a result, bolts can gradually loosen, linkage systems can get sloppy, and wheels can go out of true. Stay on top of your bike maintenance before you head out. Rule of thumb: before each ride, make sure your headset bolts are snug, your quick releases/thru-axles are tight, and that your handlebar isn’t flopping around. [MEC bike shops](/en/explore/bike-service) offer everything from quick safety checks to complete overhauls.

### 14. Age doesn’t matter
Countless publications, websites and Youtube montages may suggest that it’s a young person’s sport. But in reality, there’s something out there for everyone regardless of age, skill level or perceived bravery. It’s never too late, so kit up, hop in the saddle and get at ’er!



Nervous about trying mountain biking for the first time? Don’t stress. Follow these mountain bike tips for new riders.

A first-timer’s guide to mountain biking | MEC Blog

A first-timer’s guide to mountain biking

Whether you’re about to go ski touring around snowy peaks in the BC backcountry, travel through lush rainforests in Southeast Asia, or board a plane for a trip on the other side of the country, knowing how to pack efficiently is undoubtedly one of the most useful skills to have.

As senior equipment designers at MEC, James Brittain and Mark Knight are packing experts. They devote one-third of their time to travelling – across Canada and around the world – to visit factories that make our gear, meet with materials suppliers, and scope out new places to explore outside. They’re also the people behind the designs of MEC backpacks (along with tents, sleeping bags and more), and offer up these practical packing tips:

### 


Roll or fold: Packing Tips from MEC Designers

Both James and Mark are advocates for rolling their clothes rather than folding them.

The beauty of this technique is that you can easily stuff these “burrito-shaped packs” – as James calls them – inside items with empty space, like your shoes. Plus it means you can unroll your clothes without them ending up all creased. Mark points out that another advantage of rolling your clothes is that you don’t have to rummage through stacks of folded items to find a specific shirt.

### Store smaller items inside bigger items
Besides your clothes, you can get creative with how you store other items in the empty spaces of your belongings. For instance, on hiking trips, Mark recommends that you stuff your [sleeping pad](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/sleeping-bags%2c-sleeping-pads%2c-quilts-and-pillows/sleeping-pads/c/1416) or a [storage bag](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/packs%2c-child-carriers-and-stuff-sacs/stuff-sacks/c/1348) inside your [outdoor cookware](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/camp-kitchen/cookware-and-utensils/outdoor-cookware/c/1274). He explains that, “not only does this help eliminate the unused space, it also serves as protection for your pot so it won’t get crushed.”

### Categorize your stuff with packing cubes


To make it easier to find things jumbled in your backpack, use [packing cubes](/en/products/gear/travel-gear/travel-pouches-and-packing-organizers/c/1354). James likes to separate his belongings into different categories for each packing cube: one for electronics, another for first-aid items, a third for cooking utensils and so on. Each packing cube is colour-coded and labelled for clear identification.

Not only does this help you stay organized, it’s also handy in emergency situations when other people might have to sift through your bags to find something fast. Let’s say you get injured in the backcountry, and you’re unable to open your bag and grab a first aid kit. With a properly labelled packing cube, your travel buddy can find the first aid kit with ease.

Mark uses packing cubes with two compartments to separate his clean clothes from his dirty laundry. This is a great way to help keep your fresh t-shirts away from your well-worn socks, and when you get home, you can empty the “dirty” compartment straight into the washing machine.



### Keep everything dry
Travelling to a rainy destination? Mark has these three simple tips to keep your belongings dry:

1. Put a [rain cover](/en/products/gear/packs-and-bags/rain-covers-and-pack-liners/c/1344) over your backpack. Besides keeping your backpack free of moisture, a rain cover will also help protect your bag from tree branches on the hiking trail.

1. Store vulnerable items in a [waterproof stuff sack](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/packs%2c-child-carriers-and-stuff-sacs/stuff-sacks/c/1348) and then put the sack in your backpack. This will keep your items dry, even when you need to put your bag down on wet, marshy ground.

1. As you’re packing up from a camping trip, put the wet portion of your tent in the outer compartment of your backpack so that it’s exposed to fresh air and can dry more quickly.

Consider these packing tips when prepping for your next trip. You never know how much you’ll want to bring back home, so get creative with how you squeeze in that extra souvenir t-shirt or two.

*Looking for more travel tips? Check out [16 rad travel hacks from adventurous Canadians](/en/article/16-rad-travel-hacks-from-adventurous-canadians).*

*Photo credits: Redshinestudio / Shutterstock.com*



Roll or fold? How do you pack up a wet tent? Use these creative packing tips from MEC experts to make travelling easier.

Roll or fold? Packing tips from the pros | MEC Blog

Roll or fold? Packing tips from the pros

As the days get shorter and the nights get longer, you may start to feel like you’re stuck in the city – but you don’t have to let the winter blues drag you down. During the cold, wet, snowy months, you can stay active by taking advantage of what your city has to offer. Here are some activities you can incorporate into your daily routine to help you get moving even when there’s frost on the ground.

### Winter cycling


Many riders put their bikes away at the first sign of winter, but you can still hit the road when it’s chilly outside. You don’t necessarily need a fat bike to enjoy winter cycling, but you also may not want your main bike to risk some wear and tear (road salt, grime and ice can be tough on your ride). If that’s the case, go for an old mountain bike instead – check the [MEC Gear Swap](/en/explore/gearswap) for second-hand options – and remember to wipe down your bike and keep it clean after rides. Leave the tire pressure low to maintain traction, and if you live in a city that’s prone to icy conditions like Toronto, you can invest in [studded tires](/en/product/5041-890/Marathon-Winter-HS-396-26%22-Wire-Tire) to give you even more grip on your route.

Whether you live on the east coast or the west coast, you’ll need to dress in layers. Start with a warm base layer and add more depending on the temperature to ensure you stay comfortable and your muscles stay loose. Just make sure that you don’t feel too warm before you start riding, or you’ll end up overheated.

For more info on how to prep your bike (and yourself), for cold months, check out our [tips for winter biking](/en/explore/get-ready-for-winter-riding).

### Winter running
Just because the temperature has dropped doesn’t mean you have to stick to a treadmill. A brisk run on snow or pavement is a great way to get fresh air (be careful with icy conditions, though). As with cycling, you’ll need to dress in layers. Since the sun sets so early in winter, invest in some reflective clothing – there are even some that have stealth reflection built in, like the [MEC Tempo Reflect](/en/product/5043-573/Tempo-Reflect-Jacket) or [Fury](/en/product/5043-575/Fury-Reflect-Jacket) jackets – and a [headlamp](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/lighting-and-headlamps/headlamps/c/1306) to stay visible.

You’ll also want waterproof [running shoes](/en/ideal-for/running/products/footwear/shoes/c/1195?q=%3Asales-rank) that are sturdy enough to handle slippery terrain. For added traction, you can even attach something like [Yaktrax](/en/product/5031-877/Running-Ice-Traction-Device) or other [running spikes](/en/ideal-for/running/products/footwear/traction-devices/c/1204).

Need an extra source of motivation to keep you running through the winter season? Sign up for the [MEC Race Series](/en/explore/race-series) and set up your calendar with goals all year long.

### Geocaching
If you’re looking for a group activity, or something fun to do on the weekend, give geocaching a try. You’ll put your detective skills to the test by looking for special containers with treasures (known as “geocaches”) hidden at different locations marked by GPS coordinates. You can visit [geocaching.com](https://www.geocaching.com/seek/nearest.aspx) to start your search – all you’ll need is a [GPS device](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/navigation/handheld-gps/c/1249), some warm clothing and a buddy to tag along.

### Indoor climbing or bouldering


The weather might force your fitness routine indoors, but that doesn’t mean it can’t stay interesting. Bouldering is a great activity – it’s a type of indoor rock climbing, but without ropes or harnesses. You’ll build your strength, endurance and problem-solving skills, as each wall offers routes that are like a puzzle for you to solve. Find the solution, and work on stretching and strengthening as you try to make it to the top.

New to rock climbing? Start off with an intro course at a climbing gym, which will help you familiarize yourself with the skills needed to safely belay your partner. You can even rent climbing shoes and a harness until you decide whether you want to keep at it all winter long. If you’re looking for more helpful tips, check out [15 things I wish I knew before I started climbing](/en/article/15-things-i-wish-i-knew-before-i-started-climbing).

### Circus school… or 103 other fun things
If you still feel limited by your typical winter options, why not tackle an exciting new challenge – like classes at a circus school! Develop your flexibility and muscle strength, as you learn how to tumble and perform on the trapeze. There are circus schools all over Canada, including the [Vancouver Circus School](http://vancouvercircusschool.ca/), the [Toronto Circus School](http://torontocircus.com/) and the [Le CirQus](http://www.lecirqus.com/home/) in Montreal. Classes are offered for all ages and levels, so no experience is required. All you need to bring is a comfortable outfit and an open mind. All that balancing and flexibility practice will likely come in handy for your summer activities, too.

Want more winter ideas? Check out [103 ways to make this your best winter ever](/en/article/103-ways-to-make-this-your-best-winter-ever) for tons more inspiration. Just because the bears are hibernating doesn’t mean you have to do the same, so get outside and enjoy the beauty of a snow-covered city.

*Photo credits: Maridav / Shutterstock.com,*[*Tejvan Pettinger*](https://www.flickr.com/photos/tejvan/5252507836/in/photolist-919tzW-8YcTdF-8YcTux-8YcTDk-8YfVaS-zQmR8-93bdML-919vDY-7E4Mf7-czT9Ad-DVWaKw-7zpJop-q96WGK-D7SLi2-D7SLgZ-6w7Std-q8ZKuC-qqxr5M-bCgtzD-qogo2Y-qLSCDS-7qtGkN-7qpKeH-q8YRkW-qqnuMT-DxhWu8-7qpLtg-qqxrLB-CCah9e-q96VxR-CTWgRi-7CQzYu-jmLoSC-7CQAYb-7CQB2d-jmJ6f5-7CQAvu-infWpf-7CQA6Q-jmLoYQ-7G5VBu-jmG2St-jmHz1X-qqnuPM-7CLMqV-5JzFE1-7CLLWX-7CLJp2-7CLMLV-DCTkmM)*, Poprotskiy Alexey / Shutterstock.com*



Keep moving (and stay warm) in the city, even when there’s frost on the ground. Try these winter fitness ideas that range from fresh air options to trapeze.

5 ways to stay active in the city during winter | MEC Blog

5 ways to stay active in the city during winter

Every so often, you wind up outside on one of those perfect nights – when the moon is shining bright and the stars are out, lighting up the sky in a way you don’t see from the city. Imagine if you could point out directions to your friends using only the stars as your guide. Turns out it’s not as challenging as it might sound. All you need to do is familiarize yourself with a few constellations, and you can impress your pals with a navigation trick that few people know.

Of course, there’s no substitute for learning to navigate using a [GPS](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/navigation/handheld-gps/c/1249) or [map](/en/products/gear/books%2c-maps-and-dvds/maps/c/936?q=%3Asales-rank) and [compass](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/navigation/compasses/c/1247?q=%3Asales-rank) – but if you want to add more skills to your navigation toolkit, here are some ways to start:

#### 1. Look for Polaris, the North Star, to find north


Polaris, also known as the North Star, is the brightest star at the tip of the Little Dipper’s “handle.” It’s the only star that appears to remain static in the night sky, thanks to its position right above true north – the direction of the North Pole.

If you’re having a hard time finding the North Star, you can use other constellations, like the Big Dipper, to help locate it. Find the Big Dipper’s “ladle” and imagine that soup is pouring out from it. The flow from this hypothetical space soup will lead right to the North Star. If you see a constellation that resembles a “w,” that means you’ve found Cassiopeia and have gone too far. Backtrack a bit and you’ll spot Polaris, nestled cozily between the Big Dipper and Cassiopeia.

#### 2. Use Polaris to find your latitude in the Northern Hemisphere
If you’re north of the equator, you can use Polaris to determine your latitude. Normally, a sextant or a quadrant is used to measure the angle between Polaris’ position and the northern horizon, but that’s not an object that we tend to keep handy on a camping trip. If you happen to be outside without a sextant, you can use your fists to measure the angle.

Stretch your right or left arm out in front of you, with your hand closed in a fist, towards the horizon. Place your other fist above and continue stacking one over the other until one of your fists meets Polaris. Each fist approximates 10 degrees, so you can use them to help count how many degrees separate the North Star from the horizon to find your latitude.

#### 3. Seek help from Orion to find south


To find south, you’ll need to locate the constellation Orion, which looks a bit like a bent hourglass. In the Northern Hemisphere, Orion is visible primarily during winter. Eight major stars make up Orion’s body: one star – Meissa – represents the head; two stars – Betelgeuse and Bellatrix – represent the shoulders; another two – Saiph and Rigel – serve as the feet; and three – Alnitak, Alnilam and Mintaka in the middle – make up Orion’s belt.

You’ll want to look for Orion’s sword, which is made up of three stars that hang off of the belt. Follow its point and it will show you south when Orion is oriented close to vertical (like the image above).

Not sure if it’s Orion you see in the sky? You can use a [star dial](/en/product/4008-584/Night-Sky-Star-Dial) or a stargazing app to help you identify different constellations.

#### 5. Follow the stars for direction
Just like the sun, stars travel across the sky from east to west. Keep track of which direction they seem to be moving to determine which way you’re facing. If you want something more precise, look for Mintaka, the star located on the right side of Orion’s belt – it rises close to true east and sets close to true west.

A compass or GPS device is essential for serious navigation, but it can be refreshing to take a tech-free approach by looking to the stars above for guidance. Whether you’re out exploring the wilderness late at night or you’re just looking to show off a cool party trick at your campsite, consider the sky your celestial road map.

#### Want to improve your navigation skills?
Browse some [books](/en/ideal-for/camping-and-hiking/products/gear/books%2c-maps-and-dvds/training-guides/c/941?q=%3Asales-rank&text=); they cover everything from map reading to digital navigation. If you’re looking for more on natural navigation, check out *[The Natural Navigator](/en/product/5029-326/The-Natural-Navigator)*.

*Photo credits:*[*Ryan Hutton*](https://unsplash.com/photos/Jztmx9yqjBw)*, Vector FX / Shutterstock.com, Yuriy Kulik / Shutterstock.com*



All you need to do is familiarize yourself with a few constellations, and you can impress your pals with a navigation trick that few people know.

How to do anything: navigate using the stars | MEC Blog

How to do anything: navigate using the stars

The best presents are often things that can’t be wrapped or put in a box. Yet amid the frenetic rush of holiday gift giving, last-minute birthday hunting, and the countless other celebrations that now demand some flashy token of our love (Halloween, Easter, etc.) it’s easy to forget that the greatest gifts we ever give our children are the ones that come for free: love, time and attention.

So this year, as you struggle to choose meaningful presents from amid reams of plastic and junk – something that will bring a smile to their face, something that aligns with your values, something that builds family bonds instead adding to a landfill heap – consider doing something revolutionary, and in lieu of more *stuff* (or at least, alongside stuff) give a piece of *yourself* too, in the form of a simple IOU note.



Maybe you promise to teach your child a new skill, like how to light a fire in the rain or how to paddle a J-stroke. Perhaps you set a shared goal of biking a century ride together or learning to roll a kayak. Or plan a special weekend away where they navigate, with your help, to a distant camp. Such uninterrupted time, spent together outdoors, is invaluable for kindling curiosity, building confidence, teaching independence and perseverance, and imbuing respect for nature and an instinct for adventure.

What follows are a few simple suggestions to get your own ideas flowing. Think of these as small acts of defiance. Or perhaps, the greatest gifts of all.



### IOU a phone-free day
Our omnipresent phones may be the greatest attention-stealing devices ever invented. So why not provide your child with the antidote: a hand-written coupon, cashable at any time, requiring you to leave your mobile device behind for one entire day.

Could you do it? Sounds scary, that’s for sure. What’s really scary is that going without a phone, for just a day, can seem so daunting. Of course you can do it! No one is so important that they can’t unplug for a day. So give your precious kids 24-hours of straight up, unadulterated, undistracted you. They will love it.

### IOU a night under the stars
Camping doesn’t have to be an ordeal. No need to pack the car and head for the hills, your little one will be just as thrilled to sleep out in the backyard. Perhaps aim for August, at the height of the prolific Perseid meteor shower (it runs annually from July 17 to August 24). Or instead, maybe a new moon, when the stars are their brightest and constellations easier to identify. Maybe make it your co-mission to see the northern lights together (keep an eye on online aurora trackers and set out when conditions look promising). Whether you spot the elusive aurora borealis or not, your child will enjoy free reign to unzip the tent door at any hour of the night to peek.



### IOU tickets (to something, anything)
The [Best of Banff Mountain Film Festival](http://www.banffcentre.ca/world-tour-locations) is a great way to kindle a child’s interest in wild places and adventurous activities. Or perhaps you’ll choose tickets to the local theatre, live music or a public speaker. The important thing is that you’ve got something marked in the calendar, together.

### IOU five bike rides
Maybe you teach them to ride. Maybe you set a goal of riding 50km together by the end of the summer, and train towards it.

### IOU every run on the hill
Why not a pledge (or challenge) each other to ski every run at your local hill together, marking them off, one by one, on a trail map taped to a wall at home? It doesn’t matter how long it takes.



### IOU how to light a fire (or another skill)
Promise to teach them a fundamental skill: how to light a fire, how to paddle the stern seat of a canoe, how to safely use a knife or axe or how to read a map and navigate in the wild. Such skills build confidence and last a lifetime.

### IOU shared lessons
If you aren’t confident teaching a new skill, why not enroll in lessons and learn together? Learn to surf. Join a climbing gym. Take a photography course. Climb a mountain.

Of course the possibilities are endless. Promise to read a book under a tree. Or have a picnic beside the ocean. Go beachcombing. Or bungee jumping. Plan an overnight canoe trip. Or a month in the high Arctic. It doesn’t matter, as long as it’s time spent together.

If you want to impact your child’s life for the better, whenever possible, choose memories, not stuff.



Wondering what to get your kiddo for the holidays, birthday or more? Think outside the packaging with these gift ideas for kids that aren't things.

IOU: 7 priceless gifts for kids | MEC Blog

IOU: 7 priceless gifts for kids

It’s the time of year when our excitement for snow on the ski hill is picking up momentum (kind of like a giant snowball). Naturally, that means a lot of skiers – newbies and powderhounds – are thinking about gear.

If you’re just learning to ski or want to upgrade your gear, it can be daunting to sort through the various models to find which skis suit your style. Exhibit A:



MEC Ski selection



Enter: the MEC ski quiz. You’re only a few questions away from finding the right pair or skis to carve, rip and shred your local hill.

[*Take the ski quiz to find your perfect skis*](/en/products/gear/snowsports-gear/ski-gear/skis/downhill-and-backcountry-skis/c/1403)



Here’s how to find your perfect skis, whether you’re a powderhound, a newbie, or need something to cut the chatter through the chunder monkeys.

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