Hey all,

Im new to winter camping so hoping for some guidance on safe routes. Id like to try EP 19 (Stuart River) since I did it this summer and am familiar with it. I am worried about walking on a river system though. Is this something I should avoid?

Honestly if its a dumb idea then say its a dumb idea. I just get bored in the Winter...

Dhfish

I ski rivers a good deal. Usually its fairly apparent where the weak ice is. I've done the Stuart a number of times without trouble.

Firstly, welcome to the world of winter camping! Secondly, no, it is not a dumb idea. Traveling on frozen rivers is a pretty common means of winter travel, though it certainly has more risks than a frozen lake and requires more good judgement and preparation in case of breakthrough. The more the water is moving underneath, the more the ice will vary from day to day and place to place. Wearing skis or snowshoes will help distribute the weight better. Avoid beaver dams, narrows and other places where the current may be faster, and learn to read the snow.

I’ve snow shoed and skied the Stuart River. Most seasons the River is safe. That said, the last two seasons have been iffy. There needs to be a long stretch of cold weather to freeze the river. I’d plan traveling some time in January to be sure. But I’d check with an outfitter to be safe.

Thats a good idea. I will be doing that! Planning to head up Jan 19th so it should be cold.

Jaywalker: "Firstly, welcome to the world of winter camping! "

Thank you! And thank you for the good advice.

Thought it would be worth asking if you're doing this solo? If it's your first time traveling on a frozen river might be worth bringing someone else along just in case. Bring polar picks (or something similar) and a rope. Also something for starting a fire FAST. If a stretch looks iffy keep some distance between you so if one of you goes in you don't both go in. In general it's nice to have someone else to share in the adventure too. :)

You'll probably be just fine on your own too. I just always like to plan for the worst and hope for the best...

Ice is usually best on inside of corners.

Thats good to know.