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The Wild Dirt believes in the idea of leaving the Earth better than how we found it. We do this by inspiring others to find their own path outside. We strive to make sustainable technical products for accessible adventure. Through the support of outdoor non-profits, we protect the wild places you love.

Navigate YOUR WILD

Outdoor tips to help find adventure wherever you are.

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Simplicity is essential for cooking when you're out in the winter wilderness.

Simple Backcountry Recipes for Winter Adventures

Alexander Kwapis

Simple Backcountry Recipes for Winter Adventures

Camping in winter introduces a new dimension to the rugged allure of the outdoors.

Camping in Winter: Tips for Cozy Nights under the Star

Alexander Kwapis

Camping in Winter: Tips for Cozy Nights under the Star

Embracing Chill. Trail running in cold weather brings a thrilling edge to outdoor fitness.

Trail Running Thrills: Embracing the Cold in Outdoor Fitness

Alexander Kwapis

Trail Running Thrills: Embracing the Cold in Outdoor Fitness

Plummeting temperatures demand careful preparation, especially in colder climates.

Winter Layering: A Guide to Staying Warm and Safe in Cold Weather Adventures

Alexander Kwapis

Winter Layering: A Guide to Staying Warm and Safe in Cold Weather Adventures

Founders Alex Kwapis & Dennis Fiore developing our Store's Twiight Collection

Find Adventure

Wherever You Are

Inspiring you to get outside while using responsibly made products that improve their adventures, while protecting the wild places they love.

Simplicity is essential for cooking when you're out in the winter wilderness. These easy-to-make recipes require minimal prep and can be cooked on a camp stove or over a campfire, making them perfect for outdoor winter escapades. Campfire Veggie Foil Packs Ingredients: Assorted veggies (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, zucchini, etc.), chopped Potatoes, thinly sliced Olive oil Seasonings of choice (garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper) Instructions: Lay out a large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Place the chopped veggies and sliced potatoes in the center of the foil. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with your preferred seasonings. Fold the foil to create a sealed packet. Cook over the campfire coals or on a grill for 15-20 minutes until veggies are tender. Trailside Oatmeal Ingredients: Instant oats Dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, etc.) Nuts (walnuts, almonds, etc.) Brown sugar or honey Water or milk (if available) Instructions: Combine instant oats, dried fruits, and nuts in a pot or mug. Add a sprinkle of brown sugar or a drizzle of honey for sweetness. If you can access hot water, pour it into the mixture and stir well. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the oats to absorb the liquid before enjoying your warm, hearty breakfast. Campfire Grilled Cheese Sandwich Ingredients: Bread slices Cheese slices (cheddar, Swiss, etc.) Butter or margarine Instructions: Heat a skillet or pan over a campfire or portable stove. Butter one side of each bread slice. Place a slice of bread, buttered side down, on the skillet. Add a cheese slice to the bread and cover it with another bread slice, buttered side up. Cook for a few minutes until the bottom portion is golden brown and the cheese starts melting. Carefully flip the sandwich and cook the other side until it's golden brown and the cheese is melted. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before enjoying warm, gooey grilled cheese. Trail Mix Energy Balls Ingredients: Rolled oats Nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter, etc.) Honey or maple syrup Dark chocolate chips Dried fruits (cranberries, apricots, etc.) Instructions: Combine rolled oats, nut butter, honey or maple syrup, chocolate chips, and dried fruits in a bowl. Mix everything until well combined and the mixture sticks together. Take small portions and roll them into bite-sized balls using your hands. Place the energy balls in a parchment-lined container or bag for storage. Please keep them in a cooler or shaded area to prevent melting. Enjoy these energy-boosting snacks on the go during your winter escapades. These quick and easy backcountry recipes are perfect for refueling during your winter adventures. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can whip up satisfying meals that keep you warm and energized while exploring the snowy landscapes.

Simple Backcountry Recipes for Winter Adventures

Illuminate Your Outdoor Actions

Camping in winter introduces a new dimension to the rugged allure of the outdoors. The experience shifts from balmy nights to a cozy embrace of nature's wintry splendor as the temperature drops. Here's your guide to creating snug evenings under the starry winter sky. Choosing the Right Gear The cornerstone of winter camping is quality gear. A four-season tent with a robust structure keeps the elements at bay. Pair it with a cold-rated sleeping bag, and consider adding a liner for extra warmth. Insulated sleeping pads provide a barrier against the cold ground. Layering is Key Dressing for winter camping requires strategic layering. Start with moisture-wicking base layers to keep sweat away from the skin. Add insulating layers for warmth, topped with a weather-resistant outer shell to shield against wind and snow. Remember warm socks, gloves, and a cozy hat. Setting Up Camp Location matters. Seek spots sheltered from harsh winds but with good ventilation. Ensure your tent is pitched correctly, with the rainfly secured. Packing a ground tarp provides an extra barrier against moisture. Keeping Warm Bring a reliable camping stove to prepare warm meals and beverages. Hot drinks warm you from within and provide a comforting respite from the cold. Hearty meals fuel your body and generate warmth. Safety First Winter camping requires mindfulness. Keep an eye on weather forecasts and be prepared to alter plans if conditions worsen. Always pack extra food, water, and emergency supplies. Familiarize yourself with hypothermia and frostbite symptoms. The Art of Campfires A crackling campfire serves as the heart of a winter campsite. Gather dry firewood and kindling beforehand. Use a fire starter for convenience, and remember to follow Leave No Trace principles when extinguishing it. Cherishing Quiet Solitude Winter camping often means quieter campgrounds. Embrace the tranquility; the absence of crowds offers a serene communion with nature. Engage in stargazing or revel in the peaceful ambiance. Sleeping Under the Stars Starry winter nights paint a mesmerizing canvas. Venture out of your tent for a glimpse of the celestial wonders above. Be prepared to witness constellations and, if lucky, catch a glimpse of the shimmering Northern Lights. Morning Rituals Mornings in the winter wilderness are serene. Awakened to sunrise's gentle glow and the snowy landscape's pristine beauty. Savor a warm breakfast and hot coffee before breaking camp. Parting Thoughts Camping in winter isn't just about enduring the cold; it's about embracing the charm of a season rarely explored. The peaceful tranquility, the beauty of snow-draped landscapes, and the cozy nights spent under a blanket of stars make it a uniquely captivating experience. Winter camping invites you to embrace nature's quieter side, offering a different perspective on the great outdoors. Armed with the right gear, knowledge, and a dash of adventurous spirit, camping in winter can be an enchanting endeavor that leaves you with unforgettable memories of cozy nights under the starry skies.

Camping in Winter: Tips for Cozy Nights under the Star

Giving you the tools to safely explore the outdoors.

Trail running in cold weather brings a thrilling edge to outdoor fitness, combining the invigorating rush of the crisp air with the breathtaking beauty of wintry landscapes. While hitting the trails in colder temperatures might seem daunting, it's an adventure that brings exhilarating rewards. Embracing the Chilly Trails Winter trail running isn't just a workout; it's an experience—a dance with nature in its serene, snow-covered cloak. The first step is to embrace the cold and relish the thrill of venturing into a world transformed by frost. Donning the right gear is critical, ensuring comfort and safety amidst the chill. Dressing for Success Layering is the name of the game. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer that keeps sweat away from the skin. Follow it up with insulating mid-layers to trap heat while allowing breathability. A weather-resistant shell protects against wind and precipitation, completing the ensemble. The Winter Wonderland Trails The trails themselves transform into an enchanting wonderland during winter. The once-familiar paths don a serene white coat, with snow-laden trees creating an ethereal ambiance. The soft crunch of snow beneath your shoes adds a symphony to your run. Safety and Preparation Winter trail running demands preparedness. Shorter daylight hours mean ensuring you have proper lighting—a headlamp or flashlight—to navigate darker stretches. Familiarize yourself with the trail beforehand and inform someone of your running plans. The Joy of Solitude One of the most captivating aspects of cold-weather trail running is the solitude. The trails, typically bustling during other seasons, often offer peaceful seclusion, allowing you to connect with nature on a deeper level. Tips for a Thrilling Run Hydration: Cold weather can trick you into believing you don't need as much water. Stay hydrated. Footwear: Invest in trail running shoes with aggressive treads for traction in snow or icy patches. Warm-Up: Before hitting the trail, engage in a dynamic introduction to prevent injuries. Reveling in Post-Run Rewards After a chilly yet invigorating run, indulge in the post-run rewards. A steaming cup of cocoa or a hot shower soothes the chill while basking in the afterglow of a successful run heightens the sense of accomplishment. The Beauty of Winter Trail Running Winter trail running offers a symphony of sensations—the rush of cold air against your skin, the crunch of snow underfoot, and the sight of a frosty wonderland stretching before you. Embracing the cold while staying safe and adequately geared transforms the winter landscape into a playground for invigorating outdoor fitness. The lure of trail running amidst the chilly beauty of winter is not just a workout but a transformative experience that leaves an indelible mark on both body and soul. So lace up those shoes, bundle up, and embark on a thrilling trail running adventure that embraces the cold and celebrates the season's splendor.

Trail Running Thrills: Embracing the Cold in Outdoor Fitness

Inspiring You To Explore Your Wild

Winter brings charm for outdoor enthusiasts, but the plummeting temperatures demand careful preparation, especially in colder climates. Whether skiing down slopes, trekking through snowy trails, or camping in the wilderness, understanding the art of layering is critical to staying warm, dry, and comfortable. The Three-Layer System: Base Layer (Wicking Layer): This layer sits closest to your skin. Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics like merino wool or synthetic materials that pull sweat away from your body to keep you dry. This layer regulates body temperature and prevents moisture buildup. Insulating Layer (Warmth Layer): The middle layer retains body heat. Fleece, down, or synthetic jackets are excellent insulators. They trap heat close to your body without adding bulk, ensuring warmth even in freezing temperatures. Outer Layer (Weather Protection): The shell layer shields you from wind, rain, and snow. A waterproof and breathable jacket and pants are essential. Look for materials like Gore-Tex or eVent that repel moisture while allowing sweat to escape. Additional Tips for Effective Layering: Avoid Cotton: Cotton absorbs moisture and takes a long time to dry, making you cold. Opt for quick-drying, moisture-wicking fabrics instead. Adjust as Needed: Start with more layers than you need, then adjust according to your activity level and the weather conditions. Remove or add layers to regulate body temperature. Protect Extremities: Remember gloves, a warm hat or beanie, and thick socks. Your body loses heat through extremities, so keeping them covered is crucial. Ventilation: When overheating or sweating, open your jacket or remove a layer to prevent moisture buildup. Test Your Gear: Before embarking on your adventure, test your layering system in varying conditions to ensure it works effectively. Stay Dry: If you get wet, change into dry clothes immediately to prevent hypothermia. Applying Layering in Real Scenarios: Skiing: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating mid-layer like fleece or a down jacket, and top it off with a waterproof ski jacket and pants. Winter Hiking: Choose a merino wool base layer, a warm fleece or synthetic mid-layer, and a windproof and waterproof outer shell. Winter Camping: Layering during winter camping requires versatility. Begin with a thermal base layer, layer up with an insulating mid-layer such as a down or synthetic-filled jacket, and top it off with a weather-resistant outer layer to shield against snow or rain. Ensure your layers offer flexibility for varying activity levels and overnight temperatures. Remember, mastering winter layering takes practice and adaptation to different environments. Prioritize staying warm and dry to ensure a safe and enjoyable winter adventure. This article provides comprehensive guidance on layering techniques for various cold-weather outdoor activities, drawing on my experience as a Boy Scout, the training I received in Okpik cold-weather expertise, and my personal experience in winter activities.

Winter Layering: A Guide to Staying Warm and Safe in Cold Weather Adventures

Giving you the tools to safely explore the outdoors.

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