Winter Gear Guide

Getting out in the winter can be intimidating, with cold temps, snow and the occasional rainstorm rolling through Vermont. But with the proper gear, getting out during the winter can be a great experience despite challenging conditions. Vermont truly turns into a winter wonderland, and is ready for you to explore!
 

Downhill Skiing

Vermont has some of the highest snowfall totals in the northeast, with Jay Peak averaging 359’’ per season, courtesy of the famous “Jay Cloud”. There are resorts all over the state, with terrain for families and beginners, or skiers and riders looking for extreme terrain! To score the best deals on gear, check out your local ski swap in the fall before the season starts. Vermont skiing can be a wild ride - you’ll get plenty of beautiful soft turns throughout the season, but the icy, windy, harshly cold day is inevitable. For skiers looking for that one-ski-quiver, a 85-95mm underfoot frontside-oriented ski will be great for groomers, and the occasional powder day! If you can splurge, having two pairs of skis really opens up the capabilities of your setup. Having a dedicated frontside ski for groomers and bumps, and a wider softer ski for tight trees and pow days makes for a great time in all conditions. To ensure a great day on the slopes, check the weather and always bring extra layers! Hand and toe warmers can help fend off frigid temps, and heat molded boots will keep you comfy all day. 

Backcountry Skiing 

Tired of long lift lines and crowded parking lots? Vermont has some exceptional backcountry skiing all over the state for you to explore. While ski resorts take careful care of their terrain, backcountry conditions can vary greatly based on weather and location. Check the snow forecast to see what’s coming to your favorite spot! Locals tune into the Single Chair Weather blog, Mount Mansfield Snow Stake, and Open Snow for the most up-to-date info. Looking to link up with the local community and learn about new ski zones? Organizations like the Catamount Trail Association have been expanding access for all levels of experience. For even more areas to check out, David Goodman’s Best Backcountry Skiing in the Northeast is regarded as “The Bible of Eastern backcountry skiing.” To get the most out of your ski day, a lighter pair of skis, touring bindings, alpine touring boots with a ski/walk mode, and climbing skins will make for efficient travel in the mountains. 

Cross Country Skiing 

Cross Country Skiing is beloved by Vermonters, and for good reason! No lines, sliding through pristine forests, and getting a great workout are just a few reasons XC skiing is enjoyed by many. To get started, you’ll need skis, boots, and poles. The type of skiing you plan on doing will dictate which type of skis you get. Skate skis are used for “skating” on the snow using a side-to-side motion, similar to ice skating. Classic skis are used when the skier moves the skis in a parallel motion, similar to running. Even though it’s cold out, make sure to bring water! A water bottle belt is a great way to carry some snacks, a spare set of gloves, and your hydration. To get the most out of your time on the trails, be sure to bring layers! You will heat up surprisingly quickly (even in subfreezing temps) out on the trail and staying dry is the key to warmth. Start with wicking base layers, hats, gloves, and socks. Then cover up with a windproof shell, buff or neck gaiter and sunglasses to keep the wind and snow out of your eyes. 

Fat Biking 

Many cyclists hang their wheels up in the winter, but Vermonters love to keep the season rolling through the winter on fat bikes. These bikes have tires 3.7-5’’ in width, making them ideal for gripping on snowy and icy surfaces. The best fat bike trails are groomed, and there are networks throughout Vermont that keep trails pristine all winter. Similar to XC Skiing, layers are the key to success while fat biking. But controlling a bike with big winter mittens or gloves can be difficult - instead, using Bar Mitts allows riders to use thin (or even no gloves) to control their bike. Riding in truly frigid temps? Throw a few hand warmers in the bar mitts and your fingers will thank you.  

Ice Fishing

Ice fishing is a great way for anglers to access new areas otherwise too shallow or weedy for boats during the summer months. Lake Champlain offers the best ice fishing in the state, with a variety of species such as landlocked salmon, pike, perch, walleye, and trout. If the Lake isn’t frozen over yet, there are plenty of smaller ponds and lakes with great fishing! Ice fishing can be as simple as sitting over a hole in the cold, or kicking back in your heated ice shanty with burgers on the mini grill. To get started, a trip to the hardware store will help you score a few essentials aside from your rod and reel. A 5 gallon bucket for fish, plastic sled to haul your essentials, an ice auger to get through the ice, and spikes for your boots will ensure you have a great day! 

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