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For a hike-loving couple, there’s nothing more romantic than alpenglow-drenched mountain views, lakeside campsites, and nights spent together under the stars. So this Valentine’s Day, skip the dinner reservations and treat your love to a lavish backcountry picnic for two. To pull it off during one of the coldest months of the year, you’ll need to do more than pick a trail and buy your beloved’s favorite snacks. Packing the right gear will help you and your favorite hiking partner pull off a holiday to remember. Here are our picks for the ultimate Valentine’s backcountry picnic.
A Portable Raclette Set
My partner and I have celebrated the last five V-days with a backcountry ski feast. Last year, we leveled up when we brought this mini grill set, which melts cheese into ooey gooey perfection and takes up no more space in your pack than a Nalgene. It runs off of tea candles for use anywhere. Pack some pre-boiled mini potatoes in a tupperware, and you’re in for a gourmet treat.
A Restaurant-Worthy Entree
You can’t go wrong with charcuterie and chocolates, but nothing satisfies like a warm meal during a cold hike. Stowaway Gourmet’s Pasta La Nostra won top marks from our culinary school-educated gear editor, and would befit a romantic dinner at your love’s favorite Italian bistro.
A Camp Stove-Compatible Fondue Pot
This is how my partner won me over on our first Valentine’s Day. This fist-size cast iron fits on a canister stove, and is perfect for melting chocolate and more. Bring along some fruit, cookies, or marshmallows for a truly memorable hike.
A Tarp to Get Cozy Under
I’ve had multiple alpine romantic picnics cut short by frigid winds or heavy snowfall. Pack some protection from the elements, and you can stay warm and comfy while watching the flurries dance outside. The Mountainsmith Mountain Shade is a versatile option that you can pitch between trekking poles or trees, with plenty of ventilation for cooking.
An Insulated Mug and a Hot Drink
You’ll win brownie points when you pour your date a steaming mug of hot chocolate miles from the trailhead. We like the Stackable Cup from Yeti, which is durable and keeps contents toasty for hours.
A Butt-Warming Sit Pad
Nothing cuts a romantic picnic short faster than a cold tushy. An insulated seat is crucial for an enjoyable picnic, especially when there’s snow on the ground. Two small sit pads will work fine, but a full-size foam sleeping pad allows for plenty of room to sit side-by-side and lay out your picnic spread. My Z Lite SOL is a standard in my kit for a reason: It’s lasted for years, and stashes easily in my kit.
A Blanket to Snuggle Under
Winter weather is a good excuse to cuddle your Valentine. Enjoy your picnic under a blanket, and you’ll stay warm enough to enjoy the view—and the company—for hours. Our pick is made for outdoor excursions, featuring weather-resistent DWR coating and great packability.