Just because the temperatures drop doesn’t mean the fun has to stop! Chris Douglas shares his ultimate winter adventure guide.
Chris Douglas of Carolina All Out has years of experience exploring the outdoors in every season, he has mastered the art of enjoying winter adventures. Check out his favorite things to do and his top tips for staying warm, comfortable, and prepared so you can make the most of the colder months. There’s no reason to hibernate—bundle up and embrace the beauty of the great outdoors all year long!
In my travels as an outdoor videographer, I spent a lot of time in Northern climates. The cold weather in the upper Midwest, Canada, and Alaska can be long and brutal. I found that people who live in these climates are active through these cold months—snowmobiling, hunting, trapping, ice fishing, gathering at bowling alleys, hockey games, and pubs, just to name a few! Coming back to my beloved North Carolina home, I was always glad to be back to my more “normal” temperatures, but I did learn a few things from my Northern friends and have enjoyed some amazing days outdoors in the dead of winter.
CLOTHING IS KEY
To stay outside all day in cold weather takes the right clothing. Layering up can give you the most versatility based on the activity that you’re partaking in.
Base-Layers:
A breathable, moisture-wicking base layer of wool, silk, or synthetic materials is the start to comfort in cold weather. I’ve been using the High ‘N Dry B1 base layer top and bottoms, which are a polyester and spandex blend that has worked well for me over the past five years.
Mid-Layers:
A warm and non-binding mid-layer will pay off on those long days outside. When the cold wind is blowing at the back of your neck, a hoodie can be one of the best things to have in your arsenal. You’ll immediately notice that the warmth from your body can transfer up to your head and warm you. If you get a little too warm from exertion, just take it back down. For bottoms, I wear the High N Dry Wader Pants, but sweatpants or even a comfortable pair of non-binding jeans or wool pants will keep you comfortable.
Outer-Layers:
A heavy parka and bib overalls help to double up over your core, but even a pair of coveralls can be just what’s needed to stay warm on the coldest of days. I find that the parka/bibs combo can offer a little more movement and are less binding, but either will work and allow you to easily shed this layer as it warms up or when you come inside.
DON’T FORGET YOUR DIGITS AND NOGGIN
Nothing can ruin a day in the field more than frozen, wet hands. Don’t skimp on good gloves. I keep two pairs in my jacket on most days—one heavy pair for long sits or rides, and a lighter, more dexterous pair when tasks require finer use of my hands. If you head outside without anything on your head when it’s icy cold, you’ll find your time in the outdoors will be cut short. As mentioned earlier, a hoodie can help to save the day, but having a good-quality balaclava and/or toboggan and neck gaiter is the secret to staying outside longer.
Don’t skimp on good gloves.
ACTIVITIES
Fishing:
North Carolina just doesn’t get cold enough to freeze our waterways thick enough to support a person, much less a vehicle like you see in the north, but the fish do readily bite in the winter, and you’ll find great joy on the water if prepared. Fish are usually deeper in these conditions, so fish accordingly. Crappie and speckled trout usually come to mind for cold-weather fishing, but recently we did a February catfishing trip on the Cape Fear River, and it was an amazing time as we caught some really big blues and flatheads. Watch the adventure here.
There's nothing like a quiet evening of fishing to clear your head after the holidays.
Places to Go:
- Outer Banks
- Jordan Lake Dam
- Cape Fear River
Hunting:
Waterfowl and small game hunting are typically what’s in season during the coldest months. Hunkering down in a blind as a flock of gadwalls or mallards fly into range, quietly walking through the woods looking into the trees to catch an unsuspecting squirrel, or following behind a pack of beagles to bring a cottontail rabbit around to the gun can be an immensely enjoyable time in the winter woods.
Places to Go:
- Pisgah National Forest
- Sandhills Game Lands
ATVs:
Trail riding on ATVs can be enjoyed all season long, but getting bundled up and out on the trail in the winter with friends can be a blast. Increasing your caloric intake during the ride with snacks never hurts, and a campfire at the end of the day to celebrate the ride makes it all worthwhile!
Places to Go:
- Busco Beach
- Uwharrie National Forest
Horseback Riding:
I’m not a horse guy, but I have many friends that are, and they love to ride in the winter. I have spent a few cold days in the Rockies on a horse, and I admit the crisp, clean air of the winter lets you see for miles. The beautiful sunrises, sunsets, and landscapes encapsulated in snow or hoar frost are something to behold and few will witness. It’s like having the world to yourselves for the day!
Take in the natural beauty on horseback
Places to Go:
- Blue Ridge Mountains
- Outer Banks
Camping:
When my son was in Scouts, one of the favorite events of the year was “Camp Deep-Freeze.” The boys always had a blast keeping the campfires stoked, eating s’mores, and drinking hot cocoa! Couple winter camping with an ATV or horseback ride, and it can make for a memorable adventure. Hanging out by the campfire with a hot cup of coffee or other libation, sharing a big pot of chili or stew, and then turning in for the night in a toasty -40-below sleeping bag can be some of the best sleep you’ve ever had!
Warm up around the campfire
Places to Go:
- Jordan Lake
- Nantahala National Forest
There’s no need to dread the winter months! With a little preparation and creativity, you can enjoy a fun day in the field and make great memories. And when you finally make it inside to reward yourself with a warm, comfy couch, grilled cheese sandwich, and a hot bowl of soup, you’ll feel complete, having the satisfaction that you got out there and experienced life to the fullest!
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