For nearly 20 years, Robert Rankin has owned and cared for the Snowbird Mountain Lodge, a Robbinsville, North Carolina, inn that sits at close to 3,0000 feet. An avid outdoorsman, Robert Rankin enjoys sharing with guests the best places to hike on his Robbinsville, NC, property

1. SAFETY TIPS FOR WINTER HIKING
Robert Rankin, Robbinsville

2. INTRODUCTION
 For nearly 20 years, Robert Rankin has owned and cared for the
Snowbird Mountain Lodge, a Robbinsville, North Carolina, inn
that sits at close to 3,0000 feet. An avid outdoorsman, Robert
Rankin enjoys sharing with guests the best places to hike on his
Robbinsville, NC, property
Hiking is fun year-round, but snowy winter conditions can make
outdoor adventures dangerous. Small problems can quickly
become disastrous when the temperature gets too low. If you are
planning a trek into the snowy great outdoors, consider these
important winter-specific safety tips.
1. Research the area, and check on the weather. Even if you are
just going out for a brief nature walk, it is important to be aware of
potential hazards and know where the closest help can be found
in an emergency.

3. WINTER HIKING
 Pay extra attention to avalanche areas, and do not visit
particularly steep regions unless your group has formal
avalanche training.
2. Whether you go out alone or with friends, let
someone know where you are headed and how long you
expect to be there. It is also helpful to leave a thorough
description of your vehicles and your hiking party.
3. Prepare yourself for a night in the wilderness, even if
you only plan to hike during the day. If you find yourself
lost, injured, or simply making poor time, having extra
food, clothing, and emergency shelter, such as a
mountaineering tent, will help you get through the night.