The Linkup December, 6

A primer for winter camping, some tips for winter running,  and a teaser video for the season opener at Bridger.  Here's this weeks Linkup.

Winter camping tips from Outdoor Research

Our friends at Outdoor Research have published a list of 10 essential winter camping tips, compiled by OR athlete Lilla Molnar.  An IFMGA certified mountain guide, Molnar knows a few things about toughing it out in less than stellar conditions.  And she's Canadian, so she knows cold.  If you haven't tried it, there's nothing quite like a winter night out under the stars.  Even the most crowded summer locales are a snow covered fortress of solitude when the mercury drops.  Gear up and pack a flask.  Find the list here.

Winter Running - You'll freeze your lungs!!

Or maybe not, according to research performed by Runner's World editor Amby Burfoot.  Just about any runner who's ventured out in temperatures below freezing has probably heard this one.  (It's the winter version of "you'll ruin your knees").   Turns out running in winter isn't any more dangerous than running in summer, if you make a few seasonal adjustments. Here's some tips for extending your training through the frigid months.

• Motivate:  Think it's tough to stick to a running plan?  It's even harder when it's dark at 4:30 and -20.  This is the biggest obstacle to overcome in winter running.  Running with a partner helps, as does joining a local running club.  Big Sky Wind Drinkers put on weekly runs and races throughout the winter.
• Clothing:  Layer up and be prepared to strip off layers as you warm up.  If temps dip below zero, make sure no skin is exposed, and wear a scarf or balaclava to cover your mouth and nose.  While your lungs won't freeze, cold, dry air can trigger exercise induced asthma.  
• Visibility:  If you're going to run on streets or bike paths, make sure you're visible by using lights and reflective clothing.  Not only is it darker this time of year, drivers will not be expecting a runner on the side of the road.  
• Traction:  There are many ways to improve traction for winter running shoes.  Commercial products such as Yaktrax and Microspikes work well under most conditions, though longevity can be an issue if your route occasionally crosses pavement.  All weather running shoes such as the La Sportiva Crossover GTX provide good protection and traction for moderate conditions.  For ice and packed snow, simple screws can provided a cheap and effective DIY solution. Here's how it's done.

Bridger Bowl Opening Day!

In honor of opening day up at Bridger today, here's a highlight reel to get you stoked for another great season of Cold Smoke.  Bundle up, it's going to be a cold one.