Quick emergency shelter

[spartacus53]

Emergency shelters. You never know if you may need this, but every good camper should always have a sharp axe available.

The best source for making a short term shelter is the pine tree. If the tree has low branches remove them before proceding and set them to the side. Simply start your cut about 4-5 feet off the ground and only cut one side until the tree begins to topple. This will ensure that the trunk remains intact making a lean-to type shelter. Now just go under the tree and cut out a "V" and remove the branches so you can add them to the top for extra protection.

In the winter if there is snow, you find the same type tree, but instead of cutting it down, you get to the base and start tamping down the snow. Continue to use your feet to tamp out a small igloo. For extra insulation after building the igloo, just light up a branch and partly melt the ceiling of the inside of the shelter. It will quickly refreeze and give a little added stability and insulation.

 

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[mamabear]

for comfort, use the pine needles for a mattress. not only does it cushion you, but it keeps most bugs away too. it's a shame cedar needles are so poky. that would be the best deterant. I camped for months on end when I was younger. there are a lot of creature comforts available in the wild when you have no other choice. necessity is the mother of all invention, etc etc

 

[RGINN]

Before doing any of that up here, look up and consider if you are in an avalanche path. Some times of the year are more dangerous than others.

 

[mamabear]

Before doing any of that up here, look up and consider if you are in an avalanche path. Some times of the year are more dangerous than others.

good point nothin like an avalanche to spoil a good sleep! I've seen several (from a distance) in the Flat Tops, amazing sight & sound!