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Author

Angela Crampton

Angela Crampton

Angela lives in the Pacific Northwest and has a hard time staying in one place. As a hiker, climber, skier, and mountaineer, Angela continues to add to her outdoor experiences. If she's not outside, you can find her knitting, sampling microbrews, and writing for https://angelatravels.com, her outdoor travel blog.

Hiker stands looking at the view of snowy mountains
Gaia GPSHow-To

The Art of Layering

by Angela Crampton October 26, 2022
written by Angela Crampton

When it comes to layering for cold-weather adventures, seemingly tiny decisions can make or break a trip.

Snowy landscapes on crisp mornings sound magical. But in cold weather, the stakes are higher. Wearing the wrong clothes can leave you either too cold or too damp from sweat—both of which can lead to exposure-related conditions like frostbite and hypothermia.

That’s where the art of layering comes in. Knowing how to dress for winter hiking is all about knowing how to keep your body on that Goldilocks-fine line between too hot and too cold. Read on to figure out how to dial in your own winter layering system and enjoy your next winter hike in comfort.

Wick Away Moisture with Baselayers

A man walks down a snowfield with crampons, a backpack, and many winter layers.

Let’s start with your first layer. Your baselayer lies against your skin. It both provides warmth and wicks moisture away from your body to keep you feeling dry. Synthetic and wool fabrics, especially lightweight Merino wool, offer the best wicking capabilities. Wool also has the added benefit of natural odor-fighting properties. Cotton, however, absorbs sweat and will leave you feeling clammy. Save it for summer.

Your baselayer should be fairly thin. It can be short-sleeved or long-sleeved depending on the weather and how much you heat up when you really get moving. If you start overheating the minute you hit an incline, a short-sleeved layer or a shirt with a zipper will help you dump heat fast and avoid building up sweat. If you expect blowing snow or windy weather, you’ll be happier with long sleeves or a short-sleeved shirt under a wind-blocking layer like a softshell jacket or lightweight wind shirt.

Baselayer bottoms are also a personal preference. Even a thin pair of athletic tights or long underwear under your pants can make a serious temperature difference. But if you’re prone to sweaty legs, your winter hiking pants might keep you warm enough by themselves.

Insulate with Midlayers

A hiker stands with their back to the camera, gazing down from the top of a mountain onto mountains, a lake, and plains covered in snow. They're wearing a headband, winter coat, and a backpack.

A midlayer traps body heat to keep you warm and to continually dry your baselayer. These come in various weights—everything from a thin Merino wool hoodie to an insulated vest to a lightweight down jacket can count as a midlayer.

Breathable fleece is a popular option. It’s fairly warm for its weight, and the breathability allows sweat to dry fast, though that also means it provides little defense against wind. The close-knit fabrics of insulated synthetic mid-layers add both stretchiness and improved wind-resistance.

Down sweaters (puffy, down-filled jackets) offer the most warmth per ounce and pack down smaller than other materials. However, they only work if they stay dry. Down provides warmth by trapping hot air in the thousands of tiny air pockets that form between feathers. Get it wet, and the limp feathers will provide far less warmth than a damp wool or synthetic layer.

As the temperature dips, you might use more than one middle layer. For example, on a 10°F day, you might wear a thin Merino wool baselayer and a synthetic-insulated vest followed by a down sweater. All that goes under your outerlayer, or shell.

Keep out the Weather with Shell layers

A person walks away from the camera up a snowfield. They are wearing crampons, holding ice axes, and have on a backpack and down coat.
Photo: Anurag Nallavelli

Also known as a shell jacket, your outer layer protects you from wind, rain, and snow.

Soft Shells

Soft-shell jackets are stretchy, breathable, and water-resistant. They’re great for repelling snow in dry climates and most have a water-resistant coating that can keep out light rain and wind.

Many winter hiking pants or alpine climbing pants are made of a soft-shell material. The stretchiness and breathability make them great for steep climbs in deep snow.

Hard Shells

Hard-shell jackets are essentially rain coats. They have a waterproof membrane (like Gore-Tex) in addition to a water-repellant coating, which leaves them fully waterproof. They also block wind and retain more warmth, but they offer less stretch and far less breathability.

Hard shells shield hikers in mixed weather conditions and keep other layers dry, but even the most well-advertised “waterproof breathable” fabrics trap water vapor from sweat. Some come equipped with zippered vents in the armpits or sides to help keep air circulating, but the general rule is that if you’re working hard in a waterproof jacket, you’re going to sweat.

For winter hiking, you should always carry a waterproof jacket, even if you don’t expect rain or snow. For a full guide to choosing the right rain jacket, we recommend Adventure Alan’s Rain Jacket 101.

Protect Your Extremities

It’s easy to forget the extras, but your fingers, toes, ears, and face are the most prone to frostbite in cold conditions.

Head

You can regulate your body temperature like a thermostat by either putting or taking off a hat. Bring a wool or fleece hat that covers your ears. A balaclava or neck warmer is also useful for protecting your face from wiping winter winds.

Hands

Invest in a good pair of insulated, waterproof gloves or mittens. In general, mittens are much warmer, but gloves provide better dexterity.

For really cold weather, pack a thin pair of liner gloves, as well. They act like a base layer and wick sweat away from your hands, and they’re useful to have if you want thin coverage while working hard or while performing high-dexterity tasks like adjusting ski or snowshoe bindings.

Feet

Wear wool or synthetic socks to keep your feet warm even when sweat builds up. If you’re prone to blisters, also consider a thin liner sock to reduce friction. Make sure your socks are thick enough to provide adequate warmth, but not so thick that they’ll impair circulation by taking up too much space in your boot.

Consider packing extra socks. Feet can sweat even in very cold temperatures, and you may want to switch out socks halfway through a hike if your feet aren’t drying or warming up.

In deep snow, wear gaiters to keep snow out of your boots. Waterproof and durable, gaiters attach to your boot laces and typically extend to just below the knee.

Listen to Your Body

A hiker turns their face against the wind. They're carrying poles, wearing crampons, and have a backpack, hood, sunglasses, and winter coat. They're standing on a snowfield with mountains in the background.

Everyone handles extreme temperatures and responds to high cardiovascular output differently. A layering system that works flawlessly for one person might fall completely short for another. When you’re starting out winter hiking, pack more clothes than you think you need, and pay attention to cues from your body to determine when you need to add or subtract layers.

The only exception: When you stop hiking, layer up before you get cold. It’s easier to stay warm than to get warm.

October 26, 2022
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AndroidApp UpdatesCompany NewsFeaturedGaia GPSiOSNew Features

Introducing Hike Search: Easily Discover and Save Hikes Anywhere in the World

by Angela Crampton December 20, 2018
written by Angela Crampton

We’re thrilled to announce the release of a new, searchable, worldwide database of hiking routes across the Gaia GPS apps and website. The feature, called Hike Search, allows you to search through a continuously growing list of parks, forests, and trails to find the detailed information and maps of the best routes near you.

https://blog.gaiagps.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/TEmplate_2.mp4

 

You may have already seen Hike Search in action if you’ve visited gaiagps.com recently, but now you can use it on the go by updating to the latest version of the Gaia GPS app.

Gaia GPS has always been a comprehensive tool for helping users find their way in the backcountry. With the release of Hike search, it’s now a tool for hike discovery, as well.

Download a Trail and Maps with One Tap

Tap the new Discover tab at the bottom of your screen to get started.

In the search bar, start typing the name of a place you want to explore. That can be a trail, national or state park, or nearby city. Filter your search by a hike’s ranking, time commitment, stars, difficulty, and length.

A Living, Breathing Catalog of Trails

The most exciting thing about Hike Search is that it’s a constantly evolving, living, breathing thing. All the hikes populating the database are sourced from Gaia GPS community data, and the more hikes Gaia GPS users record, the more known routes Hike Search will generate.

Gaia GPS Hike Search aggregates public tracks and information from the community and analyzes redundancies to determine which sections of trail are known to the outdoor community as hikes. As more people publish tracks and photos, Hike Search generates more known hikes, improving its own data and internal rankings for everything on the map.

Get Involved, Give Back to the Hiking Community

Anyone can edit pages for Parks, Cities, or Hikes—this means that crucial information is sourced directly from locals, or people who’ve experienced a hike or area firsthand. As more people add their edits and trips reports, we figure Hike Search will become the most accurate and up-to-date trail database in the world—a Wikipedia for hikes.

Read here for more information on how you can get involved.

You can also contribute to the project by marking your tracks to public to see your adventures influence the course of this new resource, or leave a Trip Report for hikes you’ve done.

We welcome your feedback. Send a note to support@gaiagps.com with any questions, or just to let us know what you think.

December 20, 2018
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Now Import FIT Files on gaiagps.com - picture of man trail running towards a mountain landscape
Gaia GPSNew Features

Now Import FIT Files on gaiagps.com

by Angela Crampton October 29, 2018
written by Angela Crampton

If you use a device like Garmin’s Fenix and Forerunner watches that export FIT files, you can now upload your activities directly to gaiagps.com, and use your data within Gaia GPS.

What is FIT?

FIT stands for Flexible and Interoperable Data Transfer. FIT interchanges GPX data used by newer Garmin devices, including all Garmin watches. See all the devices that export FIT files here.

Add, View, and Manage FIT Activities Manually

Keep all your adventures in one place and add external activities from various sources to your account. By aggregating all of your activities in one place, you can compare and contrast the stats, and organize your data into folders.

Screenshot of Gaia GPS Upload a Track page

Upload the file by navigating to https://www.gaiagps.com/upload/. Enter a name, and select the file to upload from your computer. If the file is large, you’ll receive an email reminder once it has uploaded to your account.

View the upload under your “My Folders” page where you can edit the name or file it into your folders.

Screenshot of Gaia GPS My Folders page

Open your folder to view statistics, write a description, and upload photos. Combine multiple files into one folder to get aggregate stats and maps.

Gaia GPS Folder preview on mobile

Check out the most up-to-date information on importing files to Gaia GPS with the following Help Desk article: Upload GPX and KML Files.

Please note that while GPX/KML can be uploaded via the app or website, FIT can only be uploaded via gaiagps.com/upload.

October 29, 2018
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Gaia GPS 48 Hour Precip overlay
App UpdatesGaia GPSiOSNew Maps

Get 48-Hour Precipitation Forecasts on Any Map in Gaia GPS

by Angela Crampton September 25, 2018
written by Angela Crampton

Prepare for the unexpected with the new 48-hour weather forecast overlay.

Combine this new map overlay with your favorite base map to see rainfall predictions for your next weekend adventure.

Gaia GPS NOAA 48 hour precip forecast overlay

Built on Official NOAA Data

The 48-hour precip overlay taps directly into the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasting data. The NOAA Weather Prediction Center (WPC) researches and releases short-term forecasts twice daily, based on predictive models and satellite imagery. Their reports can forecast heavy rain, snow, and flash flooding up to seven days in advance.

We’ve limited the forecasting for this map to 48 hours in order to give you the most accurate prediction for weekend trips. The overlay refreshes with new information every 12 hours and currently includes the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

How To Read the Forecast

Known as a Quantitative Precipitation Forecast, the weather overlay shades areas of the map to help you visualize the amount of rainfall during a specified amount of time (48 hours, in this case).

The chart below shows the different shades available depending on the forecast, ranging from 0 to 20 inches of rainfall. Green and blue shades represent light showers, while darker areas of red or purple indicate larger accumulations.

Quantitative Precipitation Forecast

Using the 48 Hour Precip Forecast Overlay

Available for iOS users with a Premium Membership, the 48-hour Precip Forecast map can be viewed while connected to the internet.

Gaia GPS 48 hour precip map overlay

From the Map Sources menu, navigate to the Feature/Weather Overlays category.

Add the 48-hour Precip Forecast overlay atop any of your favorite base maps and set the transparency from 25 to 30 percent for the best visibility. Learn how to add map sources for iOS below:

A Note on Safety

You can use the weather overlay as a planning tool to help you pack, plan your route, and be prepared for the weather ahead. Know the terrain and alternate routes ahead of time, and plan for inclement weather, even if none appears in the forecast. Gaia GPS provides map layers to help plan and prepare but the ‘go’ or ‘no-go’ decision remains with you.

September 25, 2018
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Gaia GPSNew Maps

NatGeo Colorado Trail Maps Now Available in Gaia GPS

by Angela Crampton August 2, 2018
written by Angela Crampton

The new NatGeo Colorado Trail map adds to Gaia GPS long distance topographic map collection.

NatGeo Colorado Trail Maps Now Available in Gaia GPS

What is The Colorado Trail?

The Colorado Trail traverses 486 miles through six national forests, six wilderness areas, and eight mountain ranges from Denver to Durango. The trail dips as low as 5,500 feet outside of Denver until reaching its highest elevation of 13,271 feet in the San Juan Mountains. A hiker traveling the entire length of the trail will gain (and lose) roughly 89,000 vertical feet.

NatGeo Colorado Trail map in Gaia GPS

Hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders can all enjoy access to the trail – though some areas are off-limits to bikes and stock animals. The breathtaking mountain views throughout the trail are endless since hikers stay above the tree line. The trail passes through historic mining towns and sections of ancient Indian trails. Resupply stops include decent sized grocery stores and resupply areas along the way.

The Colorado Trail was completed in 1987 by the stewardship work of the Colorado Trail Foundation and the U.S. National Forest Service. Both organizations continue to maintain the trail today.

National Geographic Colorado Trail map details

The map provides details about water sources, campsites, trailheads, and where mountain bikes are permitted on the trail. The map annotations will make the time on the trail more enjoyable.

The Colorado Trail coverage includes: National Geographic Map 1201 :: Colorado Trail South, Durango to Monarch and Map 1202 :: Colorado Trail North, Monarch to Denver. Both maps copyrighted in 2017.

NatGeo Colorado Trail map details

How to add the Colorado Trail map

Add the Colorado Trail maps in Gaia GPS to use them on your smartphone anywhere you go. Supplement the map with your own tracks and waypoints to create a truly customized and detailed view.

To get started:

Step 1: Open the Layers menu (iOS/Android/GaiaGPS.com) and navigate to the “Premium Base Maps” section. Turn on the “NatGeo Colorado Trail” map.

Step 2: From the Map Sources menu, select the “NatGeo Colorado Trail” map source.

If you use an Android device, click here to watch an Android specific tutorial.

National Geographic long distance trail maps

Last year, we introduced National Geographic Trails Illustrated maps as a separate map in Gaia GPS.

We continue to add more NatGeo map coverage, including separate long distance trails like the Colorado Trail, John Muir Trail, and Appalachian Trail.

A Premium Membership with Gaia GPS includes the option to layer map sources and access to all of the premium map sources.

Featured photo by Josh Kuper.

August 2, 2018
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The 9 Most Popular Hiking Maps in Gaia GPS
Gaia GPS

The 9 Most Popular Hiking Maps in Gaia GPS

by Angela Crampton June 22, 2018
written by Angela Crampton

Start navigating trails near you this summer with the 9 most popular hiking maps in Gaia GPS.

Every map contains unique characteristics that offer different tools for navigation. Some show distance grids or points of interest, while others heavily focus on features like land shading, topographic information, and elevation. The maps you choose can play different roles in hike planning and preparation.

For a refresher course on reading a map, check out How to Read a Topo Map.

Add and View New Map Sources

First, watch below for a quick review on how to find and add more map sources in Gaia GPS for iOS. If you use an Android device, click here to watch an Android specific tutorial.

The Most Popular Hiking Maps

Gaia GPS offers over 250 maps in total. The below hiking-specific maps get added more often than any other hiking sources.

Gaia Topo

Available for free to all users, Gaia Topo provides a worldwide topographic map based on OpenStreetMap, styled like USGS topographic maps. Gaia Topo offers a functional and beautiful worldwide map with extraordinary detail at all scales and comes optimized for display on mobile devices.

Available in both feet and meters, the map also prominently depicts peak elevations, points of interest, parks, campgrounds and more.

Gaia Topo hiking map

USGS Topo

USGS Topo illustrate classic topographic maps for the U.S., from the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The USGS prints wider index contour lines for easy visibility, and typically measures maps in feet. Contour intervals vary by map, depending on the area’s relief.

Often referred to as quadrangle maps, the most used USGS topographic maps have a scale of 1:24,000 and cover 7.5 minutes of longitude by 7.5 minutes of latitude. The quads get scanned into digital files and seamed together into one continuous quilt, making them potentially less crisp and clear than modern topographic maps based on OpenStreetMap (OSM).

Learn how to read a USGS Topo map.

Gaia GPS USGS Topo hiking map

NatGeo Trails Illustrated

One of the most trusted and popular recreation maps available for the United State’s favorite outdoor destinations. The National Geographic Trail Illustrated maps include detailed topographic information, clearly marked trails, recreational points of interest, and navigational aids.

The Gaia GPS team has worked hard at adding more National Geographic maps to the catalog since the first release. New long-distance trail maps like the Appalachian Trail and John Muir Trail gives thru-hikers access to maps on their smartphone. Available with Premium Membership.

Gaia GPS National Geographic Trails Illustrated hiking map

World Imagery

Created by ESRI, the World Imagery base map provides satellite and aerial views of the world. Most people who use maps to navigate understand the importance of using satellite imagery to get an understanding of what the terrain looks like. Satellite maps make exploring a little simpler than using a contour map alone. Make sure to research when the satellite images were last updated. Available with Premium Membership.

Gaia GPS World Imagery hiking map

US Shaded Relief

The World Shaded Relief overlay from ESRI provides worldwide coverage and when combined with Gaia GPS base maps, produces a topographical map with 3-dimensional (3D) styling. Pair US Shaded Relief overlay to your favorite topographic map and adjust the transparency for map details. Available with Premium Membership.

Gaia GPS US Shaded Relief hiking maps Gaia GPS US Shaded Relief hiking maps

NeoTreks Land Use

The layer shows high-detail ownership boundaries for federal, state, local, and municipal lands, as well as private inholdings. NeoTreks Land Use display topographic maps for the U.S. with land cover detail and hillshading. The map marks more than 250,000 trails. Available with Premium Membership.

Gaia GPS NeoTreks Land Use hiking maps

Canada’s Backroad Mapbooks

Backroad Mapbooks’ award-winning map source provides a dynamic scale topographic base map for all areas of Canada. The map includes road networks for all major highways and freeways, arterial, collector and residential roads. It also includes industry and resource backroads and winter access.

In addition to roads, the maps include elevation contours with hillshading, land and water features, and other land uses such as parks, conservation and wilderness areas, recreation areas, Crown Land and Public Land Use Zones, First Nations Reserves, Department of National Defense Lands and more. Available with Premium Membership.

Gaia GPS Backroads Mapbooks hiking maps

SwissTopo

SwissTopo details beautiful handmade cartography. SwissTopo features elevation shading and contour lines, and emphasizes peak and range names. These maps of Switzerland are perfect for hiking, skiing, and planning trips in the Alps. Available with Premium Membership.

Gaia GPS SwissTopo hiking maps

France IGN Topo

Similar to USGS topos, France IGN Topo maps provide beautiful, accurate, hand-drawn maps. Maps include points of interest, landmarks, contours, roads, and huts (or rifugio). The contour details allow outdoor enthusiasts to explore the various mountain ranges within France, along with navigating city sights and roads. Available with Premium Membership.

Gaia GPS France IGN Topo hiking maps

Check out a complete list of Gaia GPS maps and overlays here.

Before You Go Hiking

After testing all the maps, don’t forget to create a route to follow, download the map offline, or print a paper copy before you start your hike.

June 22, 2018
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Gaia GPSNew Maps

NatGeo Appalachian Trail (AT) Maps Now Available in Gaia GPS

by Angela Crampton May 4, 2018
written by Angela Crampton
Get National Geographic Maps on your phone with a Premium subscription.

Whether you’re a thru-hiker or day hiker, use the National Geographic Appalachian Trail (AT) map to help plan your AT adventure with Gaia GPS. This premium base map includes detailed topographic information, clearly marked trails, recreational points of interest, and navigational aids.

Gaia GPS NatGeo Appalachian Trail map preview

What is the Appalachian Trail?

The Appalachian Trail spans the eastern United States’ Appalachian mountain range from Georgia’s Springer Mountain to Maine’s Mount Katahdin. The trail system navigates an estimated 2,200 miles through 14 states and is managed by the National Park Service, United States Forest Service, and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, along with local trail clubs and partnerships.

NatGeo Appalachian Trail map now available on Gaia GPS

Hikers do not need permits for the entire length of the Appalachian Trail (AT), although, it passes through several national and state parks, including Smoky Mountains National Park, Baxter State Park, and White Mountain National Forest—so some entrance fees, permits, or reservations may be required.

NatGeo Appalachian Trail map Gaia GPS layer of Mount Katahdin

The Appalachian Trail map by National Geographic provides helpful nuggets of information on camping and campfire restrictions, shelter locations, trail tips and conditions, and highway intersections.

How to add the Appalachian Trail map

If you use an Android device, click here to watch an Android specific tutorial.

Step 1: To check out the new map, open the Layers menu (iOS/Android/gaiagps.com) and navigate to the “Premium Base Maps” section and turn on the “NatGeo Appalachian Trail” map.

iPhone NatGeo Appalachian Trail base map on Gaia GPS

Step 2: From the map layers menu, set the “NatGeo Appalachian Trail” map source to visible.

Step 3: Search “Appalachian Trail” or drag the map to view areas along the trail

iPad NatGeo Appalachia Trail map sources on Gaia GPS

National Geographic long distance trail maps

Last year, we added National Geographic Trails Illustrated maps as a separate map in Gaia GPS.

Beginning with the addition of the John Muir Trail and Appalachian Trail maps, we plan to continue updating and adding National Geographic maps.

A Premium Membership with Gaia GPS includes the option to layer map sources and access to all of the premium maps.


Featured image by Ashli Baldwin.

May 4, 2018
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camp set up on the JMT photo by Miguel Vieira
Gaia GPSNew Maps

NatGeo John Muir Trail (JMT) Maps Now Available in Gaia GPS

by Angela Crampton April 20, 2018
written by Angela Crampton

Whether you’re a thru-hiker or section hiker, use the National Geographic John Muir Trail map to help plan your JMT adventure with Gaia GPS. The Premium base map includes detailed topographic information, clearly marked trails, recreational points of interest, and navigational aids.

Gaia GPS NatGeo John Muir Trail map preview GIF

What is the John Muir Trail?

Have you wanted to thru-hike but haven’t had months to hit the trail? The John Muir Trail (JMT) provides an alternative that averages 15 days to hike a total of 210.4 miles.

Located in California and named after outdoor explorer and wilderness advocate, John Muir, the JMT passes through the Sierra Nevada mountains and various wilderness areas, like Ansel Adams Wilderness.

gaia gps john muir trail map preview on ipad

Wilderness permits are required for the trail through the national park service. If you aren’t able to obtain a permit, consider section hiking portions of the trail instead.

The John Muir Trail map by National Geographic provides helpful nuggets of information on where to camp, water resources, and campfire restrictions.

gaia gps natgeo john muir trial map

How to add the John Muir Trail map

If you use an Android device, click here to watch an Android specific tutorial.

Step 1: To check out the new map, open the Layers menu (iOS/Android/GaiaGPS.com) and navigate to the “Premium Base Maps” section and turn on the “NatGeo John Muir Trail” map.

gaia gps natgeo john muir trail base map

Step 2: Search “John Muir Trail,” go directly John Muir Trail page, or drag map onto screen to view the yellow highlighted trail.

Step 3: From the Map Sources menu, select the “NatGeo John Muir Trail” map source.

Step 4: Download the map for offline use.

gaia gps natgeo john muir trail base map

National Geographic long distance trail maps

Last year, we added National Geographic Trails Illustrated maps as a separate map in Gaia GPS.

Beginning with the addition of the John Muir Trail map, we plan to continue introducing more National Geographic long distance trail maps over the course of this year.

A Premium membership with Gaia GPS includes the option to layer map sources and access to all of the premium maps. 


Featured image by Miguel Vieira.

April 20, 2018
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Gaia GPS

How to Find the Best Hikes for Viewing the Northern Lights

by Angela Crampton March 22, 2018
written by Angela Crampton

You’ve seen the photos of green lights dancing around the night sky and want to view the northern lights yourself. The forecast predicts clear skies and high visibility. You need to get out of the city’s light pollution but need to plan where to go.

How to Find the Best Hikes for Viewing the Northern Lights

Photo by Matt Lamers

What causes auroras?

Space.com explains the science behind the auroras natural wonder. Storms on the sun propel solar charged particles to the solar system. When the particle stream crosses Earth, Earth’s magnetic field and atmosphere react. The particles join with atoms and molecules causing the atoms to light up.

Learn more about the science behind auroras here.

1. When and where to go

How to Find the Best Hikes for Viewing the Northern Lights

Photo by Jonatan Pie

Whether you plan a northern lights trip or chase the local forecast near you, you’ll need dark skies–the closer to the winter solstice the better.

High latitudes, like Alaska, Norway, Iceland and Canada have the greatest chances since they are close to the Arctic circle. The lesser viewed aurora australis, or southern lights, appear in remote parts of Antarctica but can sometimes be seen from New Zealand and southern parts of South America.

Tip: Focus on the destination first and northern lights second. Don’t plan an entire trip around seeing the northern lights. Weather is unpredictable and you may be disappointed.

2. Use aurora and weather forecasts

How to Find the Best Hikes for Viewing the Northern Lights

Photo by Nelly Volkovich

Similar to weather forecasts, apps (like My Aurora Forecast and Flowx Smart Weather) and websites (like NOAA.gov and Geophysical Institute) now provide forecasts on the aurora visibility and where the northern lights may appear. Combine the northern light forecasts with cloud coverage predictions to ensure the skies are visible during the light show.

Check the moon cycle. Planning a trip during a full moon isn’t optimal. Snow is reflective and the moon will brighten up the surroundings, which makes it good for night landscape photography to expose the foreground but bad for sky photography. Don’t only look at the moon cycle but the rise and set times to know how to avoid the moon’s light pollution.

3. Read a map to find the best viewing potential

How to Find the Best Hikes for Viewing the Northern Lights

Photo by Uroš Jovičić

Time to read a map and figure out the logistics after finding a weather window.

Line of sight to northern horizon

Search the map for features where you’ll have a clear view of the northern horizon and are away from light pollution. Learn how to read a topo map to gain a better understanding of terrain.

Make sure you understand the map features indicating ridgelines and valleys. Navigate out of valleys and find ridgelines or peaks for vantage points.

Preview the surroundings: Satellite overlay

Scan maps and overlays, including satellite views, to ensure trees and mountains won’t block the horizon. Seek alpine landscapes above the treeline to maximize line-of-sight. Try and find the date the satellite map was created to help understand how relevant the data.

Tree coverage: USFS Timber Harvest overlay

GAIA GPS USFS Timber Harvest overlay

Use USFS Timber Harvest premium overlay to find forest lands harvested any time since the mid 1800s. Play with the overlay to find areas that may not have as much tree coverage to ensure you have clear views.

4. Get Outside

The aurora forecast app notified you about a chance for the northern lights to be present near you. All your planning shows clear skies and new moon giving you a window to get outside.

Take a hike

Not all hiking trails are equally the same. Some trails meander through forests without wide sweeping views or stay in valleys. Try finding a familiar trail that has clear views, it also helps with navigation since you’ll be hiking in the dark.

Use Gaia GPS to search for public hikes near the area you want to go. Don’t follow the routes blind. Dig into the terrain more with the map layers mentioned above and below to ensure it is the right trail for the adventure.

Forest roads: USFS Motor Vehicle Use Maps overlay

Being close to your car near a remote trailhead keeps you more flexible than hiking. Park for a view where the lights should appear and stay inside away from the brisk wind until a glimpse of activity on the horizon.

GAIA GPS USFS MVUM (motor vehicle use maps) overlay

The USFS MVUM premium overlay on Gaia GPS provides a starting point for finding the road less traveled.

Consider turning off the dome lights and headlights to avoid damaging night vision. You’ll also make friends if you aren’t alone.

5. How to see the northern lights

How to Find the Best Hikes for Viewing the Northern Lights

Photo by Vincent Guth

You did your research and found the perfect location to sit back and enjoy the aurora lights. Unlike the long-exposure photos you see across the internet (and in this blog post), the lights may be hard to find if you don’t know what you’re looking for. At first you think your eyes are deceiving you until you realize that small glimmer of light on the horizon may actually be the northern lights.

Still not sure? If you have a camera with long exposure and tripod, set it up to see if lights appear in the frame (it doesn’t have to be in focus to check).

Sit back and enjoy the show.

6. Stay warm

The sun set and the air is frigid. Unless you plan on doing a cardio workout and being continually on the move, you need to make sure to stay warm while in position to see the show.

Bring big puffy jackets and long underwear. Ok, it may be a little extreme but staying warm will help you focus on the views and less about the atmosphere. Here are some tips on how to layer for winter hiking. Don’t forget that jumping jacks or cardio every so many minutes will keep the blood pumping and your body warm.

While taking photos of the northern lights or staying still, consider bringing a form of insulation (cardboard or a sit pad) to either sit or stand on. Keep your feet warm with wool socks and insulated or waterproof boots.

Mittens decrease dexterity but allow you to ball-up your fingers. Consider wearing liner gloves under an overmit. When you need to use your fingers, take off the overmits.

7. Planning your trip

How to Find the Best Hikes for Viewing the Northern Lights

Photo by Bjørn Are Andreassen

Flights during off-season or winter months can be less expensive than visiting the destination in the summer. Same goes for hotels and rental cars. Set up alerts from your home airport to various northern light destinations and monitor flight deals to keep the costs down. Some airlines have provided package deals to include flights, hotel, and tours.

Depending on your travel style, consider booking northern light specific tours in the evening. Tours allow you to optimize where you go and takes away from additional planning on where to go. Plus, you don’t have to worry about driving in winter conditions (icy or snowy roads). If you plan on booking a tour, consider finding accomodation close to the pick up location. Bonus if your tour picks you up at your hotel.

Unlike vacations, a northern lights trip may not leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Don’t expect to get much sleep as you plan your evening events.

Final thoughts

If you’re located in the northern hemisphere, consider downloading a forecast app that will notify you when the aurora will be seen near you. Pair a forecast app with Gaia GPS to find the best place to view the lights. Oh, and don’t forget to download the maps offline before you go.

March 22, 2018
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7 Ways to Use Your Smartphone to Plan the Ultimate Backcountry Ski Trip
AdventuresFeaturedGaia GPS

7 Ways to Use Your Smartphone to Plan the Ultimate Backcountry Ski Trip

by Angela Crampton February 7, 2018
written by Angela Crampton

Smartphones may be the best piece of outdoor gear you can take with you into the backcountry. In this article, learn how to use mobile apps both online and off to plan an unforgettable backcountry ski trip this winter.

Start the planning process by determining the best location to backcountry ski based on weather, avalanche forecasts, and navigation.

In the wild, use your smartphone to track your route, take field notes, and capture photos of your adventure.

1. Weather and avalanche forecasts

7 Ways to Use Your Smartphone to Plan the Ultimate Backcountry Ski Trip

Photo by Nicolas Cool

Winter backcountry travel requires extra research than other seasons. Why? Because snow and avalanche danger add unstable risk. Temperatures and precipitation forecasts start the planning process but more conditions come into play.

Be informed on the weather

7 Ways to Use Your Smartphone to Plan the Ultimate Backcountry Ski Trip

Source: weather.gov

Track weather daily since the snowpack will depend on snow, wind, rain, and snow levels (or freezing levels). Temperatures hovering around freezing level can warm the snow throughout the day but freeze the layer at night causing icy ski conditions until the snow softens up again or new snow falls. Learn more about snow versus freezing levels.

Wind gusts can remove light snow off the windward side and deposit the snow to the leeward side of the mountain. Windward aspects of the mountain may show scoured snow and form a cornice at steep ridgelines. Strong winds in the winter can also make it downright unpleasant for the skier.

Most skiers don’t want to see rain in the forecast. Similar to temperatures hovering around freezing, the rain melts the top layer of the snow and creates a hard rain crust not optimal to ski. Monitor the snow levels in order to know what elevation will have snow to ski.

Avalanche conditions

7 Ways to Use Your Smartphone to Plan the Ultimate Backcountry Ski Trip

Source: nwac.us

Different regions have avalanche field reporters assessing the snowpack. Use local avalanche forecasts to help decide whether you earn your turns or go to a resort.

Avalanche forecasts provide ratings such as low, moderate, considerable, high, and extreme and evaluate below treeline, near treeline, above treeline. In addition to the ratings, forecasts indicate predictions on what slopes may slide and what type of avalanche you may see (i.e. wind slabs and storm slabs).

Take an AIARE (American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education) class to learn about snow stability and how to read forecasts.

Note: Smartphones can interfere with avalanche transceivers, or beacons, and should be kept far from each other when in avalanche terrain.

2. Navigation

Navigation starts when you step out your front door. Drive to the trailhead or starting point of your trip using road maps. Minutes before you leave, check local webcams on highways or ski resorts for current conditions and gain a sense if the weather forecasts are accurate.

Plan your route

7 Ways to Use Your Smartphone to Plan the Ultimate Backcountry Ski Trip

After reviewing the weather and avalanche forecasts, use Gaia GPS map layers to find the right route. Summer trails may be hard to find under the snow but can be used as a starting point when planning your route.

7 Ways to Use Your Smartphone to Plan the Ultimate Backcountry Ski Trip

Avalanches occur most commonly at 30 to 45-degrees. Use Gaia GPS Slope shading overlay to help determine the best slopes to stay safe on the mountain. If the conditions aren’t favorable, it is crucial to select safer terrain. Reference the satellite map layer to see if the terrain is passable‒look at tree coverage and areas for obvious cliffs to avoid.

Go to gaiagps.com to sign up for a free account and start planning your next route today at gaiagps.com/map.

View your route and maps offline

7 Ways to Use Your Smartphone to Plan the Ultimate Backcountry Ski Trip

You planned a route and want to use it to navigate offline to save battery. Select the download offline map function and set a box around the terrain you wish to explore. Consider saving areas that look promising for back-up plans.

Learn more on how to download maps for offline use here.

3. Tracking your route

7 Ways to Use Your Smartphone to Plan the Ultimate Backcountry Ski Trip

Tracking with a GPS is valuable especially as a beginner. If you plotted a route on the map, you can check your phone at junctions or every 30 minutes to stay on course.

Monitor your pace, distance, and elevation to maximize the short winter daylight hours. Calculate your average moving speed for the elevation to mile ratio and plan how long your outings will take.

In addition to tracking, add waypoints to the trip. Waypoints add points of interest or landmarks during the outing: where you parked the car, where you dug a snowpit, or where you transitioned from touring to ski mode.

4. Field notes

Avalanche classes teach backcountry skiers to write down the predicted conditions while trip planning, along with taking notes in the field, especially when plans change. Instead of carrying a little blue field book, consider entering notes into the smartphone in your pack.

Plan your trip

You have researched various areas to ski over the weekend, so writing notes come in handy for remembering the exact forecasts and details when offline. Start the note with the date and the location you plan on skiing. Next, record the avalanche forecast and weather conditions, along with any snowpack concerns. It can be as simple as taking a screenshot image on your phone to reference. Add the travel plans for the day with alternative routes and look up the emergency response phone numbers for the area.

In the field

7 Ways to Use Your Smartphone to Plan the Ultimate Backcountry Ski Trip

Make note of any deviations from the original plan. Observe the sky (clouds and precipitation), temperature, wind, and snow. How do the conditions differ from the forecasts? If you plan on returning to an area, consider taking a photo of slopes to ski or write down the area’s terrain (trees, bowls, ridgelines, etc.).
Debrief the day

Traveling solo or as a group, reflect on the conditions of the day and make any notes on what you learnt or observed. The notes can come in handy for future planning or sharing your trip reports, or beta, with friends.

5. Photography

Everyone can be a photographer: just add a smartphone. Not to mention ski poles make a good selfie stick with the right attachments. Below are a few tips to keep in mind when photographing your adventure.

Landscapes

7 Ways to Use Your Smartphone to Plan the Ultimate Backcountry Ski Trip

The reason why you go out in nature is the sweeping beauty and remote possibilities. Shooting pictures of landscapes doesn’t take much effort but avoid placing the focus of the image dead center. Use the rule-of-thirds and place the object off-center.

Tap the screen where you want the lens to focus on and allow it to adjust for the exposure or lighting of the photo. If the photo looks dark, consider focusing on a dark area to brighten the image. Most smartphones automatically adjust the photo while processing with a HDR (high-dynamic-range) setting.

Action shots

7 Ways to Use Your Smartphone to Plan the Ultimate Backcountry Ski Trip

Smartphone cameras have many settings, including burst modes to capture action shots. It takes time to perfect action shots for skiing but burst mode allows you to take many photos and choose the best one later

Position yourself downhill from your friend, or subject, and ask him or her to ski close to you at a fast pace. Choosing the slope with no tracks makes it more appealing and shows the remoteness of the excursion.

Focus on the skier to get the right exposure and let the phone burst to capture the sequence. Don’t forget that practice makes perfect. It takes time to know how close the skier should be and the best angles. Once you figure out the distance, throw a snowball where you want to skier to turn and communicate your vision.

6. Music

Nature can be hauntingly silent where your thoughts can interrupt focus. Music can drown out the silence or keep you motivated to keep a steady pace.

Enjoy the outdoors how you want but please consider others when outside or keep the music to yourself with earbuds. Download music offline to listen in the car, at camp, or a backcountry hut.

7. Emergency contact

Almost everyone carries a smartphone these days and has a hard time leaving it at home. Being connected allows skiers to share their plans with friends. Tell a friend your plans: start time, end time, and where you’re going. Check in with said friend after your day ends.

Cell service networks reach more remote areas than they have in the past. Send your planning notes to a friend that is a reliable source.

Final thoughts

Your smartphone can be the ultimate backcountry tool – but remember to plan smart. Preserve phone battery life by keeping it in a warm jacket pocket and always bring back up maps and other essential equipment.

Most importantly, always travel with companions, practice safe skiing techniques, and have fun!

February 7, 2018
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