Marty, you make me an envious man. Monster houses in the area where you live, huge yards, looks as if you've done well for yourself. And, you get to wander the Canadian Rockies and spend some quality time in nature in all seasons. Good for you, man. Thanks for taking us along.
falling in love with ur videos! was injured snowboarding in Banff L.L 2009 and haven't been able to do much physical activity sense. ur videos r making me miss the out doors a lot. when I wish I could be out doors camping and hiking I put a video of u on and Dream of one day hiking the trail in ur videos. thanks Marty.love ur Family videos seems like u have a dream life ♡♡♡
Great Video Marty! Just want to let you know I am putting the toque to good use now that upstate New York is finally seeing winter temperatures. Thanks again for the toque and the videos!
Thanks Marty I'm just starting to get into backpacking i been watching your videos they are very helpful for me keep up the good work I'll keep watching
I even feel cold watching this hike/camp Marty,-10 brrr.Good advice not to sweat if possible & heating up your feet by the fire before hitting the trail again.Smokies by the fire in the mountains=bliss.Thanks for taking us out with you buddy.
Awesome video, as usual. Oh and the best jerky on the planet, Longview Jerky Shop! I had them do up an entire deer I harvested this year in the original and spicy version. The spicy is seriously spicy, ouch!
Nice video. Winter camping is can be a lot of hard work but a good fire and a warm sleep system make it all worth it. Thanks for taking the time to share. Take care, Al
Hello Marty, greetings from Northern California. Thank you for sharing this fine video. I put your name in for 'outdoorsman of the decade'. I hope that you win. Always take care out there. 🤗
Take up snowmobiling... get to see the same terrain and a machine to haul your gear. I do it in Ontario... but it's not the same terrain as you have in Alberta. It's all about getting out there, camping and contemplating life. I enjoy your videos and am inspired by them. You're the man :)
Check out some of my sledding videos. I've been riding in the mountains for 20+ years. Like you said, it's all about getting out there. I do self-propelled sports like hiking and canoeing, but I also love motor sports. Thanks for the positive comments and for watching my videos. Cheers from Alberta.
Pretty cool man! I watch this dude called "Wintertrekker" and he pre cuts all of his wood at his sites days beforehand on a scout. Probably give you more day time. As a side note (not that I am much of a winter camper or anything) if you make your snow into compressed snow balls you can fit more in the pot, also it will melt faster because the trapped oxygen in the snow works as an insulator. Also you will scorch the bottom of your pot if you don't put a little water in first. If you care that is.. Lol! my pots are scorched to the max. Lol!
+Hangs with Raccoons Thanks. The advise on melting snow is really good. It somehow never even crossed my mind to put a little water in the bottom to start the process. I guess I was too concerned with trying to collect "clean" snow. Pre-cutting is also a good idea, but I almost never know in advance where I plan to go.
Rob _ Your welcome man! Martyupnorth I just learned that trick a while ago. I guess you should always have water in your pot if you don't want it to scorch the bottom. Little things.. Lol!
This is awesome Marty. These videos inspired me to get out this summer. Been getting into shape over the winter and I'm planing my first trip at the end of this month. Going to tour grand cache starting at sulphur gates.
Cool video, thanks +Martyupnorth My 2 cents, A bandanna can help filter the debris in the water. The snow shoe could replace that heavy shovel and save you a few pounds to carry :)
+World Traveler I think you're on to something with the bandana. I often have water that has debris or silt in it. I know a filter would work, but it's barely necessary in the Rockies, and weighs a few pounds that I don't need. I'll try packing a few square inches of cheese cloth in the future. Cheers.
Enjoyed watching your vid. I have never camped in deep winder, looks a little scary. Kudus to you, you really have your s--t together to do that. What would bother me most is the early darkness and not being able to enjoy the sights and sounds of the forest while in camp.
Last December, I was camped alone at a frozen lake. I saw a sasquatch footprint near the lake as I arrived. And a half hour after dark, a sasquatch strolled by my camp, just out of the light from the lantern; just checking me out. good times. My next two visits to the same area in January , I had more vocal contact; friendly. In march, I was on a day hike in the same area and I was out of the forest almost to the parking area and I heard a loud woof, from a big sasquatch saying goodbye to me. I turned around to wave and I saw nothing. I am sure they are paranormal.
Nice video, reminds me of my first few winter camping trips. once I got a hot tent it was much more fun. too much work for just one night though. The guys I usually go with - we all use long skinny toboggans because we carry lots of gear..
You've got huevos of cold steel, my friend! I did some snow camping when I was a Boy Scout in my teens but I'm not sure how I'd do now in my fifties. I still enjoy stomping around in the snow but I think my snow camping days are long over. I've no desire to do it. But then again, if the world was slammed with an instant Ice Age tomorrow, I suppose it wouldn't be too hard to jump that hurdle. A lot of it is about confidence, being smart, working within your limitations and knowing how to find enjoyment in what you're doing.
Enjoy your trip. Learning to get out in winter really extends the hiking season. I'd like to do more winter hiking, but I have sons who play hockey, and I'm a coach, so that means I'm very busy from November to April with lots of hockey related travel.
I would recommend to bring a bandana to filter out the stuff that falls from the trees. I do and it works pretty good. I did an overnight in the area of the Cataract Creek. It's very beautiful.
Thanks for sharing Marty! Another great video! What kind of sausage are your smokey's? I haven't seen them here in Missouri. You have peaked my sausage curiosity and now I want to try them.
Way to start the year off. Thanks for putting up with the cold for us hiking starved viewers. One question, I see a lot of winter videos where the hiker is pulling a sled with their equipment on. Have you ever considered doing that?
I have. I've been told that skis and a sled is the way to go, especially on relatively flat terrain. I just ordered a proper 4-season tent. With a sled you can carry a warm bag and a stove. No reason to limit hiking to summer.
I would rather camp in the winter, it may take a little more effort but I think its worth it. Just the fact you don't have to go as far as you would in the summer to have the place to your self.
My only experience with camping outdoors in the snow was when I was about 14 years old in Boy Scouts back in the day when we used old WWII Army surplus canvas tents filled with holes and heavy cloth sleeping bags. Froze our butts off, and woke up with our boots frozen solid. We set up camp in waste deep snow. The gear is so much better designed today. Our packs weighed about 80lbs and its a wonder we all did not die of hypothermia.
I'm starting to gather the equipment for my backpack hiking trips I'm going to start doing this year and I enjoy your page and most important I really liked the video where you prep all your meals. Even though I feel like I have a good idea what I'm doing, do you have any advice for me?
Nice trip +Martyupnorth ! You eat those smokies all the time! I gotta ask, do you ever get sick of them? Also, one thing I do in the cold times down here in Colorado is I will put some boiling water in my nalgene and put it in between my legs or at my feet when I go to bed. Really makes a difference!
+Aron Anderson Thanks Aron. I call anything I cook over the fire a smoky, but they're not always the same sausage. I usually bring sausages for the first day or two. Beyond that it's more traditional hiking food like pasta, freeze-dried entres and so on. You'll see that on my 9-day hike video I didn't have any fresh food because of weight concerns. That said, I never get tired of cooking smokies, hot dogs or any other sausage over a fire. The hot water bottle is good advice...just like grandma used to do on the farm. That or hot rocks in a special pan. Thanks for watching.
At the start of February we camped out on one of the frozen lakes. I just drape my lighter bag over my heavier bag, 20 and 0 degree bags. my feet were cold but warmer up soon.
Ah made me second guess hiking/camping in the snow. I'm from LA and never seen snow so I find it so beautiful but maybe not for overnight hiking. Thanks!
It's a NorthFace Lunar Light. It's been discontinued for a long time. It was replaced by the TadPole. There are lighter tents on the market. I still use this one, even though I have bought 2 newer tents after this one. It goes up quickly with just one person.
I didn't think one could have a fire in Banff. Or is it in the random portions in the north you can? I mostly go in the south part of Banff toward Asiniboine, the Bryant creek area.
+jdniedner I'm not in Banff. I'm in random camping area of southernn Kananaskis. You can have fires in some areas of Banff, as long as you have a permit, it's on a designated trail and it's in a fire box. Some trails that come to mind are Glacier Lake, Howse Pass, Molar Pass, Castleguard. Thanks for watching.
+Daniel Lessard Kananaskis Country has a few winter backcountry campsites. Maybe try Big Elbow. Call the trail office 403-678-3136. I think Glacier Lake in Banff should be accessible by snowshoe in winter. It's only 10 km in to the lake. I don't do a lot of overnight winter camping around Calgary for the reason you describe. There's just not a lot of places nearby. In this video I went to Cataract Creek, which allows random winter camping for free, but there's a lot of snowmobilers in the area.
+Joe Magaro Yes, it's a Gore-Tex shell made by Klim. They specialize in snowmobile gear, but I also use it for other outdoor pursuits. I like this one because it has a lot of vents that I can open up, especially under the arms. I get hot no matter what I do. I wear the shell with a fleece underneat, and a synthetic T-shirt under that.
Hi Marty. I have a question. I am hoping to do some short ultra light backpacking. I am also in Calgary. I am going to try and work up to 5K. I know, a short distance, but I have to start small. Do you have any suggestions on where to go? Thanks!
+Cheeky Saver Winter or summer? For summer a nice quick hike that's only 5 k is mosquito creek campground on the parkway about 23 km north of Lake Louise. Don't be scared by the name, the bugs aren't bad.
+Martyupnorth Definitely summer. I have bug spray. LOL Winter camping or hiking I consider a spectator sport. Thanks for the name. I will give it a try. I have done a lot of camping in the ghost area. That is not too far off.
Great video Marty! I was wondering what you brought for winter overnight trips. 89.9/L for fuel?! That is so cheap; it's 1.23/L here in Squamish, BC. Have you gone to that location in the summer months? It looks familiar. I had the same issue with waking up every couple hours because of tingly arms (I sleep on my side). I found that deflating my Thermarest a little helped out A LOT. Oh, do you have any issues with your camera lens foggy up over night?
+Snow Peak That little town is Longview, Alberta, south-west of Calgary. It's an entry point into Kananaskis Country. Gas there is always $0.05/l more than Calgary. Our local price is now in the $0.80/l range. We're getting a carbon tax next year, so we'll start to see increases. My typical load for any trip is always the same basic stuff: Pack - ArcTeryx Bora 95 2-man tent - NorthFace Lunar Light (1-man tents are just too small) Therma rest - full length. Sometimes I bring a 3/4 length one Sleeping bag - Good to -7C Folding saw - Coghlan Sierra Stove - model & type varies depending on the season Stove service kit Some fire starter - Zip brand Cooking gear - A 1.5 liter MSR Alpine, one plastic mug, a pot gripper, scrub pad, lighter, 1 spoon Pocket knife First aid kit - bandages, blister pads, medicine, burn cream, hand warmers, spare lighter, small mirrorr.... Repair kit - some duct tape, plastic zip ties, safety pins, spare buckles, odds & ends. Water bottle Personal toiletry - toothbrush, paste, small soap, camp towel Stuff sacks Parachute Cord (Paracord) - 100' - hang food, clothes line, spare laces, repair pack, so many uses Boots Daytime hiking clothes - synthetic Camp/sleeping clothes - synthetic Jacket Socks - always synthetic Fleece gloves Toque Food - about 1.5 lbs/day Crocks for around camp Camera and lots of batteries for it. Spare memory card. Miniature camera tripod Spare lighters Optional stuff - depending on season, length of trip or expected geography Bug spray Small tarp Flashlight or head lamp Candle lantern Extra shirts & socks Extra foam mattress Extra sleeping bag liner Walking stick (you can almost always make one) Hatchet Snowshoes Water treatment tablets I have a separate video that shows what I pack: ua-cam.com/video/ANqGutsA5C4/v-deo.html I also have one that shows my food: ua-cam.com/video/7fnsuNkVvvs/v-deo.html I don't usually have problems with the camera lens. Thanks for watching.
Thanks for the great response Marty! Longest trip I've done is a 3night/4day solo trip and I've hit the limit with my 55L pack. I think I'm going to be getting a bigger pack for this year to do longer trips.
time some1 out there came up with a rucksack that had rails where you put your arms though just a thought,what do u think does it make sence would it work same with snowshoes
+Trent Williams Trent, I refer to almost any sausage as a "smokie". I just bring whatever happens to be on the shelf at home. They're all good. On this trip I brought Grimms' classic cheese smokies. Easy to find locally in Alberta and Saskatchewan. The beauty of sausage is they keep for a long time, even if its warm outside, and most can be consumed cold if necessary.
Hi Marty love your vids!!, can you give me some advice where in Alberta can i do snow camping next month (March), just my wife and i, I’ve been several times in Canada, but our first in Alberta! Thank you all the info you always give!!
Sorry Juan, sometimes I'm gone for a week and I miss a few comments. We've had a lot of snowfall this year. The snow will be deep everywhere in the mountains. Are you travelling on skis or on snowshoes?
Absolutely love the videos. Feels like I’m right there...less the -10 degree cold. Wondering what you recommend for a GPS? Been using AllTrails on iPhone, but thinking a stand-alone device might be better...?
I currently use a very simple Garmin eTrex 20.Easy to use, colour, lots of memory. It uses the same on-line software as my Garmin Forerunner jogging watch.
On a winter trip like that it weighs a good 35-40 lbs. My base weight in the summer is about 25 lbs, and then I add 1.5 to 2 lbs /day for food. The most I ever carry is about 55 lbs at the start of a long 9 day trip.
Bears are all hibernating in winter, so they're not a concern. I've done 3 day trips, but that's it. The days are so short, and the cold can be real miserable. The best way to move across long distances is with cross-country skis. Once I'm retired I might do more winter hiking. For now winter is the time I spend in hockey arenas with my sosn.
Martyupnorth ok I was just thinking about the possibility of a rogue bear that decides to come out of hibernation... So absolutely no need to make noise, carry bear spray, or any of the other precautions you would take in summer?
I suppose it's possible for a bear to wake up. Especially a young one who doesn't have experience digging a good den. I've heard of fluke periods of warm weather some years that leads to snow melt. A poorly chosen den site could flood, causing a bear to look for a new home. It's possible, but I wouldn't worry about it.
Only a few kilometres. It was just a quick trip to show people what's possible. I carried about 20 lbs. The pack is for longer trips so it looks big. I just put everything in without compressing. I've seen a few good videos where guys bring more gear, like wood stoves, by using a sled. Maybe I'll do a longer trip that way. Better to have a friend in winter since a lot more things can go wrong.
They're bigger than hot dogs, and usually flavored. They're just smoked sausage that I re-heat over the fire. My favorite are cheese-smokies. They have chucks of cheese mixed in with the ground pork. HAppy holidays to you as well
Hey Marty, interesting video. I was planning on going down to Cataract Creek as well for a cross-country skiing trip, and I have a few questions. From what direction did you approach (assuming you came from Calgary) to avoid all the road closures that happen during the winter? Also, do you remember specifically what trail you did in this video, and do you have any recommendations?
Sorry I didn't reply earlier. I came in from the Longview side. I wouldn't ski in the Cataract Creek area, too many snowmobiles. I hiked along a trail for a while and then made my own path. I haven't gone back in winter. It's a great summer area, but not so good in winter fro self-propelled sports. I've struggled to find a good skiing/snowshoe/overnight area close to Calgary.
I meant to update earlier. I took your advice and didn't go to Cataract Creek. I instead went to one of the trails near Bragg Creek. It was the Elbow Trail near Allen Bill Pond. I believe that the entire network of trails nearby is specifically meant for Nordic skiing in the winter. It ended up being a very adequate spot for skiing and it's in public land so fires are allowed there. It is also close to Calgary. Just thought you ought to know. Thanks.
Bears hibernate during the cold winter months. The only big predators still roaming the forest at this time of the year are wolves, coyotes, and cougars. They'll go after easy prey like deer in the deep snow before they come after me.
Sorry Marty but that does not look like fun at all I think day hikes snowshoeing or cross country skiing or even ice fishing would be more rewarding than sleeping in a tent in the middle of winter Dont get me wrong ya everyone should try it at least once But why not head home at dark lol Great video and you are one crazy guy lol enjoy brother and god bless
hey bro light a fire and use gas to make a brew...?. did it go dark before it boiled..contemplating life as you eat what was alive...is the only life you contemplate yours...?....too many nights in the cold bro ..sure its just your arms tingling..lol..i agree, no need to be out in that cold unless in an emergency... peace
I was living in Grande Prairie when I created the channel. It's common for people who work in the oil field to move around. I've lived in Grande Prairie, Edson, Fox Creek, Fort Saskatchewan. My wife is from Fahler. I've worked in Fort Mac, Manning, Rainbow Lake, Red Earth Creek. I think calling myself Martyupnorth is justified. What's with all the negativity on UA-cam these days??
I always love a new Martyupnorth video. I enjoy watching. You make it feel like we went along. Thanks for all the work.
Appreciate the video Marty. Every time now I get the bug to cold cold camping - I will just watch your video in a warm house with a hot cocktail.
Good ol Alberta! I am from Edmonton myself, I am enjoying your videos! A new fan.
Marty, you make me an envious man. Monster houses in the area where you live, huge yards, looks as if you've done well for yourself. And, you get to wander the Canadian Rockies and spend some quality time in nature in all seasons. Good for you, man. Thanks for taking us along.
falling in love with ur videos! was injured snowboarding in Banff L.L 2009 and haven't been able to do much physical activity sense. ur videos r making me miss the out doors a lot. when I wish I could be out doors camping and hiking I put a video of u on and Dream of one day hiking the trail in ur videos. thanks Marty.love ur Family videos seems like u have a dream life ♡♡♡
Great Video Marty! Just want to let you know I am putting the toque to good use now that upstate New York is finally seeing winter temperatures. Thanks again for the toque and the videos!
I like to see you're always prepared for the worst. Excellent video as always. Congrats on hitting 4.5k subs. All the best for the new year.
Thank you for your great video Marty. Love it. Wish you all the best.
Thanks Marty I'm just starting to get into backpacking i been watching your videos they are very helpful for me keep up the good work I'll keep watching
Man didn't that look like a fun adventure!! Love winter but like you said summer is where it's at! Another great video !
I even feel cold watching this hike/camp Marty,-10 brrr.Good advice not to sweat if possible & heating up your feet by the fire before hitting the trail again.Smokies by the fire in the mountains=bliss.Thanks for taking us out with you buddy.
It's weird but as much as I don't look forward to it, I so look forward to hiking. A little hardship goes a long way towards making me feel alive
Awesome video, as usual. Oh and the best jerky on the planet, Longview Jerky Shop! I had them do up an entire deer I harvested this year in the original and spicy version. The spicy is seriously spicy, ouch!
Nice video. Winter camping is can be a lot of hard work but a good fire and a warm sleep system make it all worth it.
Thanks for taking the time to share.
Take care, Al
Hello Marty, greetings from Northern California. Thank you for sharing this fine video. I put your name in for 'outdoorsman of the decade'. I hope that you win. Always take care out there. 🤗
Thanks. That's 1 vote so far...
Take up snowmobiling... get to see the same terrain and a machine to haul your gear. I do it in Ontario... but it's not the same terrain as you have in Alberta. It's all about getting out there, camping and contemplating life. I enjoy your videos and am inspired by them. You're the man :)
Check out some of my sledding videos. I've been riding in the mountains for 20+ years. Like you said, it's all about getting out there. I do self-propelled sports like hiking and canoeing, but I also love motor sports. Thanks for the positive comments and for watching my videos. Cheers from Alberta.
Tyboy4U this shit sucks
I’ll set the whole woods on fire before I freeze lol
Where’s the weed?
Beautiful country you get to hike in !! Nice videos !! It's definetly tougher to solo backpack in the winter. Thanks for sharing !!
Pretty cool man! I watch this dude called "Wintertrekker" and he pre cuts all of his wood at his sites days beforehand on a scout. Probably give you more day time. As a side note (not that I am much of a winter camper or anything) if you make your snow into compressed snow balls you can fit more in the pot, also it will melt faster because the trapped oxygen in the snow works as an insulator. Also you will scorch the bottom of your pot if you don't put a little water in first. If you care that is.. Lol! my pots are scorched to the max. Lol!
+Hangs with Raccoons thanks for the ideas
+Hangs with Raccoons Thanks. The advise on melting snow is really good. It somehow never even crossed my mind to put a little water in the bottom to start the process. I guess I was too concerned with trying to collect "clean" snow. Pre-cutting is also a good idea, but I almost never know in advance where I plan to go.
Rob _ Your welcome man! Martyupnorth I just learned that trick a while ago. I guess you should always have water in your pot if you don't want it to scorch the bottom. Little things.. Lol!
Makes me want to get out there and do it! Thank you so much!! :)
This is awesome Marty. These videos inspired me to get out this summer. Been getting into shape over the winter and I'm planing my first trip at the end of this month. Going to tour grand cache starting at sulphur gates.
Cool video, thanks +Martyupnorth
My 2 cents,
A bandanna can help filter the debris in the water.
The snow shoe could replace that heavy shovel and save you a few pounds to carry
:)
+World Traveler I think you're on to something with the bandana. I often have water that has debris or silt in it. I know a filter would work, but it's barely necessary in the Rockies, and weighs a few pounds that I don't need. I'll try packing a few square inches of cheese cloth in the future. Cheers.
+Martyupnorth a Sawyer purifier weights a few ounces. you need to come into the 21st century, lol.
Nice area. I love it out there
Enjoyed watching your vid. I have never camped in deep winder, looks a little scary. Kudus to you, you really have your s--t together to do that. What would bother me most is the early darkness and not being able to enjoy the sights and sounds of the forest while in camp.
Thanks for taking one for the team. Brrrrrr!!!! ;)
I have 2 weeks off over the holidays. Time for another winter hike.
Last December, I was camped alone at a frozen lake. I saw a sasquatch footprint near the lake as I arrived. And a half hour after dark, a sasquatch strolled by my camp, just out of the light from the lantern; just checking me out. good times. My next two visits to the same area in January , I had more vocal contact; friendly. In march, I was on a day hike in the same area and I was out of the forest almost to the parking area and I heard a loud woof, from a big sasquatch saying goodbye to me. I turned around to wave and I saw nothing. I am sure they are paranormal.
Excellent video, very informative
Nice video, reminds me of my first few winter camping trips. once I got a hot tent it was much more fun. too much work for just one night though. The guys I usually go with - we all use long skinny toboggans because we carry lots of gear..
You've got huevos of cold steel, my friend! I did some snow camping when I was a Boy Scout in my teens but I'm not sure how I'd do now in my fifties. I still enjoy stomping around in the snow but I think my snow camping days are long over. I've no desire to do it. But then again, if the world was slammed with an instant Ice Age tomorrow, I suppose it wouldn't be too hard to jump that hurdle. A lot of it is about confidence, being smart, working within your limitations and knowing how to find enjoyment in what you're doing.
Cool Thanks for my winter camping fix
Enjoyed the vid. It's interesting. Some like winter better because there are no bugs. LOL
Great video ! I'm going to do my first winter hike alone this winter, it helps to see what gear you brought to make my own pack :D
Enjoy your trip. Learning to get out in winter really extends the hiking season. I'd like to do more winter hiking, but I have sons who play hockey, and I'm a coach, so that means I'm very busy from November to April with lots of hockey related travel.
Nice video, enjoyed your overnight adventure
Very Good Video!
Man you live in amazing place.
I would recommend to bring a bandana to filter out the stuff that falls from the trees. I do and it works pretty good. I did an overnight in the area of the Cataract Creek. It's very beautiful.
Haha I live in this part of the world,respectfully, you sir are insane
Hahahaha I would hang out with you ...
Thanks for sharing Marty! Another great video! What kind of sausage are your smokey's? I haven't seen them here in Missouri. You have peaked my sausage curiosity and now I want to try them.
They're called "Grimm's Fine Foods". Canadian brand. All their products are good. They have a web site.
Way to start the year off. Thanks for putting up with the cold for us hiking starved viewers. One question, I see a lot of winter videos where the hiker is pulling a sled with their equipment on. Have you ever considered doing that?
I have. I've been told that skis and a sled is the way to go, especially on relatively flat terrain. I just ordered a proper 4-season tent. With a sled you can carry a warm bag and a stove. No reason to limit hiking to summer.
Martyupnorth curious what kind of tent did you order? Can we expect some more winter hiking vids?
I would rather camp in the winter, it may take a little more effort but I think its worth it. Just the fact you don't have to go as far as you would in the summer to have the place to your self.
My only experience with camping outdoors in the snow was when I was about 14 years old in Boy Scouts back in the day when we used old WWII Army surplus canvas tents filled with holes and heavy cloth sleeping bags. Froze our butts off, and woke up with our boots frozen solid. We set up camp in waste deep snow. The gear is so much better designed today. Our packs weighed about 80lbs and its a wonder we all did not die of hypothermia.
Army training. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger.
So true
I'm starting to gather the equipment for my backpack hiking trips I'm going to start doing this year and I enjoy your page and most important I really liked the video where you prep all your meals. Even though I feel like I have a good idea what I'm doing, do you have any advice for me?
Nice trip +Martyupnorth ! You eat those smokies all the time! I gotta ask, do you ever get sick of them?
Also, one thing I do in the cold times down here in Colorado is I will put some boiling water in my nalgene and put it in between my legs or at my feet when I go to bed. Really makes a difference!
+Aron Anderson Thanks Aron. I call anything I cook over the fire a smoky, but they're not always the same sausage. I usually bring sausages for the first day or two. Beyond that it's more traditional hiking food like pasta, freeze-dried entres and so on. You'll see that on my 9-day hike video I didn't have any fresh food because of weight concerns. That said, I never get tired of cooking smokies, hot dogs or any other sausage over a fire. The hot water bottle is good advice...just like grandma used to do on the farm. That or hot rocks in a special pan. Thanks for watching.
Nice video 🤘
At the start of February we camped out on one of the frozen lakes. I just drape my lighter bag over my heavier bag, 20 and 0 degree bags. my feet were cold but warmer up soon.
Ah made me second guess hiking/camping in the snow. I'm from LA and never seen snow so I find it so beautiful but maybe not for overnight hiking. Thanks!
+Mango Time I'm used to the cold and the snow, and I still don't like camping in the winter.
Enjoy the video..... Thank you!
Marty, Are you sure you are not in Siberia??? Brrrrrr. Just found this older video, and you are truly an excellent outdoorsman.
Yes I am! I did a 4 day trip in December with nightly temperatures of -30C. That was cold.
Always enjoy your video's Marty, thanks for sharing with us, just wondering what tent you use?
It's a NorthFace Lunar Light. It's been discontinued for a long time. It was replaced by the TadPole. There are lighter tents on the market. I still use this one, even though I have bought 2 newer tents after this one. It goes up quickly with just one person.
Thanks Marty, looking forward to watching some new and very informative videos.
I love the spot on Glacier Lake in banff, the video that you did two years ago with one of your sons (Patrick).
Mutlu yıllar Marty.
+Kadir Yıldıran Size ve sevdiklerinize iyi dileklerimle. (Best wishes to you and your loved ones)
I didn't think one could have a fire in Banff. Or is it in the random portions in the north you can? I mostly go in the south part of Banff toward Asiniboine, the Bryant creek area.
+jdniedner I'm not in Banff. I'm in random camping area of southernn Kananaskis. You can have fires in some areas of Banff, as long as you have a permit, it's on a designated trail and it's in a fire box. Some trails that come to mind are Glacier Lake, Howse Pass, Molar Pass, Castleguard. Thanks for watching.
nice video bro
we are planing on going out next weekend for a 2 to 3 days but finding hard finding a place to camp if you have any ideas would love it
+Daniel Lessard Kananaskis Country has a few winter backcountry campsites. Maybe try Big Elbow. Call the trail office 403-678-3136. I think Glacier Lake in Banff should be accessible by snowshoe in winter. It's only 10 km in to the lake. I don't do a lot of overnight winter camping around Calgary for the reason you describe. There's just not a lot of places nearby. In this video I went to Cataract Creek, which allows random winter camping for free, but there's a lot of snowmobilers in the area.
No spicy ichiban ramen soup this hike? I think that would be a good choice to warm you up 👌
Nice Video,Marty. Is that a gore-tex shell? How do you find the shell for winter hiking?
+Joe Magaro Yes, it's a Gore-Tex shell made by Klim. They specialize in snowmobile gear, but I also use it for other outdoor pursuits. I like this one because it has a lot of vents that I can open up, especially under the arms. I get hot no matter what I do. I wear the shell with a fleece underneat, and a synthetic T-shirt under that.
What kind of pack is that? It looks awesome.
It's an awesome Arc Teryx Bora 95. Unfortunately it's discontinued model.
Hi Marty. I have a question. I am hoping to do some short ultra light backpacking. I am also in Calgary. I am going to try and work up to 5K. I know, a short distance, but I have to start small. Do you have any suggestions on where to go? Thanks!
+Cheeky Saver Winter or summer? For summer a nice quick hike that's only 5 k is mosquito creek campground on the parkway about 23 km north of Lake Louise. Don't be scared by the name, the bugs aren't bad.
+Martyupnorth Definitely summer. I have bug spray. LOL Winter camping or hiking I consider a spectator sport. Thanks for the name. I will give it a try. I have done a lot of camping in the ghost area. That is not too far off.
Great video Marty! I was wondering what you brought for winter overnight trips. 89.9/L for fuel?! That is so cheap; it's 1.23/L here in Squamish, BC. Have you gone to that location in the summer months? It looks familiar.
I had the same issue with waking up every couple hours because of tingly arms (I sleep on my side). I found that deflating my Thermarest a little helped out A LOT. Oh, do you have any issues with your camera lens foggy up over night?
+Snow Peak That little town is Longview, Alberta, south-west of Calgary. It's an entry point into Kananaskis Country. Gas there is always $0.05/l more than Calgary. Our local price is now in the $0.80/l range. We're getting a carbon tax next year, so we'll start to see increases.
My typical load for any trip is always the same basic stuff:
Pack - ArcTeryx Bora 95
2-man tent - NorthFace Lunar Light (1-man tents are just too small)
Therma rest - full length. Sometimes I bring a 3/4 length one
Sleeping bag - Good to -7C
Folding saw - Coghlan Sierra
Stove - model & type varies depending on the season
Stove service kit
Some fire starter - Zip brand
Cooking gear - A 1.5 liter MSR Alpine, one plastic mug, a pot gripper, scrub pad, lighter, 1 spoon
Pocket knife
First aid kit - bandages, blister pads, medicine, burn cream, hand warmers, spare lighter, small mirrorr....
Repair kit - some duct tape, plastic zip ties, safety pins, spare buckles, odds & ends.
Water bottle
Personal toiletry - toothbrush, paste, small soap, camp towel
Stuff sacks
Parachute Cord (Paracord) - 100' - hang food, clothes line, spare laces, repair pack, so many uses
Boots
Daytime hiking clothes - synthetic
Camp/sleeping clothes - synthetic
Jacket
Socks - always synthetic
Fleece gloves
Toque
Food - about 1.5 lbs/day
Crocks for around camp
Camera and lots of batteries for it. Spare memory card.
Miniature camera tripod
Spare lighters
Optional stuff - depending on season, length of trip or expected geography
Bug spray
Small tarp
Flashlight or head lamp
Candle lantern
Extra shirts & socks
Extra foam mattress
Extra sleeping bag liner
Walking stick (you can almost always make one)
Hatchet
Snowshoes
Water treatment tablets
I have a separate video that shows what I pack: ua-cam.com/video/ANqGutsA5C4/v-deo.html
I also have one that shows my food: ua-cam.com/video/7fnsuNkVvvs/v-deo.html
I don't usually have problems with the camera lens.
Thanks for watching.
Thanks for the great response Marty! Longest trip I've done is a 3night/4day solo trip and I've hit the limit with my 55L pack. I think I'm going to be getting a bigger pack for this year to do longer trips.
time some1 out there came up with a rucksack that had rails where you put your arms though just a thought,what do u think does it make sence would it work same with snowshoes
What are the smokies you're eating? I'm constantly trying to find new food ideas
+Trent Williams Trent, I refer to almost any sausage as a "smokie". I just bring whatever happens to be on the shelf at home. They're all good. On this trip I brought Grimms' classic cheese smokies. Easy to find locally in Alberta and Saskatchewan. The beauty of sausage is they keep for a long time, even if its warm outside, and most can be consumed cold if necessary.
If it got too cold you would have stayed up all night to keep the fire going? Sounds brutal!
+JG .JG It's not that bad. Many have endured worse conditions. Thanks for watching.
Hi Marty love your vids!!, can you give me some advice where in Alberta can i do snow camping next month (March), just my wife and i, I’ve been several times in Canada, but our first in Alberta! Thank you all the info you always give!!
Sorry Juan, sometimes I'm gone for a week and I miss a few comments. We've had a lot of snowfall this year. The snow will be deep everywhere in the mountains. Are you travelling on skis or on snowshoes?
Absolutely love the videos. Feels like I’m right there...less the -10 degree cold. Wondering what you recommend for a GPS? Been using AllTrails on iPhone, but thinking a stand-alone device might be better...?
I currently use a very simple Garmin eTrex 20.Easy to use, colour, lots of memory. It uses the same on-line software as my Garmin Forerunner jogging watch.
Longview. Home of Ian Tyson. Long hill into town with a cop at the bottom.
Hey Marty whats the pack weighing at?
On a winter trip like that it weighs a good 35-40 lbs. My base weight in the summer is about 25 lbs, and then I add 1.5 to 2 lbs /day for food. The most I ever carry is about 55 lbs at the start of a long 9 day trip.
Are bears much less of a concern in the winter? Also, have you done or would you do a long hike in the winter, say 4-5 days or more?
Bears are all hibernating in winter, so they're not a concern. I've done 3 day trips, but that's it. The days are so short, and the cold can be real miserable. The best way to move across long distances is with cross-country skis. Once I'm retired I might do more winter hiking. For now winter is the time I spend in hockey arenas with my sosn.
Martyupnorth ok I was just thinking about the possibility of a rogue bear that decides to come out of hibernation... So absolutely no need to make noise, carry bear spray, or any of the other precautions you would take in summer?
I suppose it's possible for a bear to wake up. Especially a young one who doesn't have experience digging a good den. I've heard of fluke periods of warm weather some years that leads to snow melt. A poorly chosen den site could flood, causing a bear to look for a new home. It's possible, but I wouldn't worry about it.
How far did you hike and how much did your pack weigh?
Only a few kilometres. It was just a quick trip to show people what's possible. I carried about 20 lbs. The pack is for longer trips so it looks big. I just put everything in without compressing. I've seen a few good videos where guys bring more gear, like wood stoves, by using a sled. Maybe I'll do a longer trip that way. Better to have a friend in winter since a lot more things can go wrong.
Great video man ! I always see you roasting “smokies” are they basically hot dogs ? Just curious. Thanks for sharing ! Enjoy the holidays! Peace
They're bigger than hot dogs, and usually flavored. They're just smoked sausage that I re-heat over the fire. My favorite are cheese-smokies. They have chucks of cheese mixed in with the ground pork. HAppy holidays to you as well
how about bringing a pair of hoodie and jammys that you could put in the stove and heat over the fire before you get into your sleeping bag?
best camp hack ever
Hey Marty, interesting video. I was planning on going down to Cataract Creek as well for a cross-country skiing trip, and I have a few questions. From what direction did you approach (assuming you came from Calgary) to avoid all the road closures that happen during the winter? Also, do you remember specifically what trail you did in this video, and do you have any recommendations?
Sorry I didn't reply earlier. I came in from the Longview side. I wouldn't ski in the Cataract Creek area, too many snowmobiles. I hiked along a trail for a while and then made my own path. I haven't gone back in winter. It's a great summer area, but not so good in winter fro self-propelled sports. I've struggled to find a good skiing/snowshoe/overnight area close to Calgary.
I meant to update earlier. I took your advice and didn't go to Cataract Creek. I instead went to one of the trails near Bragg Creek. It was the Elbow Trail near Allen Bill Pond. I believe that the entire network of trails nearby is specifically meant for Nordic skiing in the winter. It ended up being a very adequate spot for skiing and it's in public land so fires are allowed there. It is also close to Calgary. Just thought you ought to know. Thanks.
Thank you for an interesting video. Keep going)) It was January 1 and today Jan 1 - how it's possible? ))))))
This video is 2 years old.
it was some kind of joke :)
Hi I just found your great video! Did you hike in from the campground side or did you cross the Highwood and hike upstream?
I parked at Cataract Creek campground and just hiked in by following the creek. I didn't go very far. I just wanted to do a short winter video.
Take ski's, they are far superior
Snow shoes will drain your energy
no need to hang a food bag this time of year?
Correct. Bears are sound asleep. So are most rodents. The big thing to fear in this part of the world in winter is cougars.
No bear bag?
Bears hibernate during the cold winter months. The only big predators still roaming the forest at this time of the year are wolves, coyotes, and cougars. They'll go after easy prey like deer in the deep snow before they come after me.
Wasn't thinking about hibernation, happy trekking. Not many bears to deal with in Ohio :-)
Just Bearcats....
I don’t know Marty. I think you’d be easier prey than deer. Unless wolves like fast food. The only thing is you’re individually wrapped in plastic.
The long dark..
11.35 Chai Tea? lol
ha ha. That's it. The cold was affecting my brain. Cheers
Martyupnorth i was wondering about that too... I thought maybe you picked up a very special tea on your last trip to Bangkok 😜
Sorry Marty but that does not look like fun at all I think day hikes snowshoeing or cross country skiing or even ice fishing would be more rewarding than sleeping in a tent in the middle of winter
Dont get me wrong ya everyone should try it at least once
But why not head home at dark lol
Great video and you are one crazy guy lol enjoy brother and god bless
Hey Marty! Do you smoke bud?
Interesting question. I smoke the occasional cigar. Or are you referring to smoking fish & game? Why do you ask??
hey bro light a fire and use gas to make a brew...?. did it go dark before it boiled..contemplating life as you eat what was alive...is the only life you contemplate yours...?....too many nights in the cold bro ..sure its just your arms tingling..lol..i agree, no need to be out in that cold unless in an emergency... peace
oo
Calgary is not northern alberta!! Rainbow Lake is northern alberta
I was living in Grande Prairie when I created the channel. It's common for people who work in the oil field to move around. I've lived in Grande Prairie, Edson, Fox Creek, Fort Saskatchewan. My wife is from Fahler. I've worked in Fort Mac, Manning, Rainbow Lake, Red Earth Creek. I think calling myself Martyupnorth is justified. What's with all the negativity on UA-cam these days??
oh,, sorry....fair enough then. But again, clarify when making the video so you gain creditability!!
Nonna Yourbsns u should watch marty's videos and .... ull figure it out. marty hes "the real deal"for hiking videos all around the Ab.
Nonna.....In future, just say you're sorry, and avoid going back on the offensive. You'll gain credibility that way. And look less like an ass.
Hey Marty i've done Seismic in all does shit holes! Fahler the fog town was the coolist! -50! fuck was it cold.
should't inflation your thermarest with your mouth.
Put condensation in..
Agree. It's an old Therma Rest that barely self inflates any more. Time for a new one.
All I need is fire and a big bag of weed 😑
That"s now legal in Canada.
That does not look like fun to me.
It's not everyone's cup-of-tea.
nice video bro