Let’s face it… Many of us think that Minnesota winters are a drag. It’s cold, snowy, and you better make sure you’ve got a jump-starter in your car, or you’ll be calling for an expensive rescue. After the first snowfall, the complaints start blowing up on social media. What ever happened to that exhilaration you felt after looking out the window to a fresh blanket of snow? I’m ready for a serious attitude adjustment about Minnesota winters, and L.L.Bean at Mall of America is helping me do just that.
Not only does L.L.Bean feature high quality outdoor gear and apparel, but they also offer on and off-site classes through L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools. I found a “Camping in the Cold” class at the Mall of America store and I decided to give it a try. It was a free, hour-long seminar, so what did I have to lose?
My instructor, Naz, is an expert at camping from her time spent in Colorado as a Wilderness First Responder with the National Park Service. I knew I was in good hands. She talked of the beauty and peacefulness of camping in the wintertime. There’s no need to worry about bugs or crowds, and the experience can be surprisingly comfortable with a little preparation.
She took me all around the store and showed me all kinds of essential things I would need to bring with me on this winter adventure. From sleeping pads, tents, fire-starters, and layers and layers of clothing, the store had it all. I also got some extremely helpful tips that you wouldn’t normally think of when planning a winter camping trip. All in all, I felt more than prepared to try out this excursion.
The classes don’t end here! L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools also offers outdoor-skill clinics, guest presentations, and guided outings in the local area. Book an adventure today!