Snow, ice, and cold weather create special conditions for winter adventures like hiking and camping, but many people find these conditions intimidating. On Saturday, Jan. 20, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Damariscotta River Association (DRA) is hosting a Winter Camping workshop to build skills and confidence when it comes to being outside in the winter.

DRA Education Director Sarah Gladu is partnering with Seth Walton of Maine Sport Outfitters to offer a day of snow shelter building, gear demonstrations, snowshoeing, compass navigation, and winter cooking at a campfire.

“Knowing how to keep warm and comfortable is critical to having a great experience,” insists Gladu. “It is also a serious matter of safety.” By way of example, Gladu goes on to explain that in cold weather, the temperature of white gas, or liquid fuel, can dip below freezing but remain in liquid form. Simply touching an uninsulated fuel bottle with the bare skin of your hand in sub-zero temperatures can cause a cold injury. This can be prevented by wrapping the bottle with duct tape to insulate it.

After a session of snow shelter building, participants will head indoors to talk about pre-trip planning and what Gladu calls “The 10 Essentials,” or a short list of the most important items to bring on a winter trip.

Walton will demonstrate clothing choices and discuss different layering systems. He will also go over different kinds of boots and microspikes, as well as sleeping gear and pack options.

For lunch, participants will cook a light meal outdoors in a cooking area they build from snow. There will be an opportunity to try out a Jetboil cooking system as well.

During an afternoon snowshoe hike, the group will learn what to look for in campsite locations, discuss communication device options, and work on navigation with a compass.

Participants should bring a water bottle and be prepared to be outside most of the day, although there will be access to indoor facilities all day. With advance notice, snowshoes can be provided for those who don’t have their own. This workshop is recommended for anyone age 11 or older, though kids under 16 must be accompanied by a parent.

The fee for the workshop is $25, or $20 for DRA members. To help with planning, please register by Jan. 16 by calling DRA at 207-563-1393. Scholarships are available.

For more information call (207) 563-1393, email dra@damariscottariver.org, or visit online at www.damariscottariver.org.