We brought you “10 Things to Do During an Alpena Winter“; now, we are bringing you the ultimate packing guide for a winter adventure here in the Sanctuary of the Great Lakes.

Basic clothing needs for any outdoor winter adventure: Layers! Layers! Layers!

  • First, you need your base layer. Anything for wicking, allowing for perspiration to evaporate. Wool and synthetic fabrics such as polyester work best. Try to stay away from cotton.
  • For your mid layer, an insulating jacket or vest works well. Use fabrics like wool, down, or fleece.
  • For the top layer, make sure it is waterproof; a lined soft shell works great!
  • If you are going to wear jeans, be sure to wear warm long underwear underneath your jeans. Lined winter snow pants are the best way to go.
  • Hats, face mask, waterproof gloves/mittens, smart wool socks, and boots!
  • For snowshoeing, skiing, and skating, bring your snowshoes, skis, and skates, of course! Or you can rent skates at Northern Lights Arena.

Ice skating at Northern Lights Arena

Survival essentials: To get through the day without any setbacks.

  • Water bottles. Bring an insulated thermos to keep water from freezing.
  • Snacks. It’s never fun getting hungry right in the middle of an epic adventure!
  • Map/compass. It’s also never fun getting lost.
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and chapstick. Even in winter, you can still get sunburn or windburn; keep your lips moisturized to prevent painful chapping.
  • A fully charged cell phone.

For the ice fisher: Basic ice fishing equipment.

  • Sled for pulling your gear
  • 5 gallon bucket, also doubles as a chair to sit on
  • Hand or gas auger
  • Spud
  • Jig pole/tip up
  • Knife
  • Bait/tackle
  • Ice shanty or shelter if it is really windy or extremely cold

Ice fishing on Grand Lake

For the wintertime photographer: Basics for the novice.

And don’t forget to bring these, no matter what winter adventure you choose:

  • Your appetite
  • An open mind

There you have it, Alpena’s Ultimate Packing Guide for a winter adventure. Share all your winter adventures with us by following us on Facebook and Instagram, and by sharing hashtags #sanctuaryofthegreatlakes and #alpena. We can’t wait to see your best shots!

Looking for a place to rest your head? Check out all of our lodging options here – Hotels/Motels/AirBnb

 

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