Snow Pit

by Joe MacDonald

Now that winter is upon us, with a deep layer of snow, it's a waste of energy trying to get to the debris underneath to build a leaf hut. Therefore, let's discuss a snow shelter.

The safest kind is a snow pit because there is more than just a layer of snow overhead that could possibly collapse. Start by digging a pit in whatever shape best suits your needs. I think a rectangular one is easiest to cover later. During the construction, it's important to stay as dry as possible. Try kicking out the snow rather than carrying armloads of it and wetting your upper body.

If it's feasible, dig all the way to the ground. Leave at least enough room to prop up on one elbow while including space for the bedding. Ideally, height ought to be around four feet, a little deeper if you intend to have a small fire.

Place a minimum layer of six inches of vegetation on the bottom (excluding the fire area, which is built on the snow or the ground). Choose a location near your materials. Pine and fir boughs are most abundant at this time, but be on the lookout for grasses and barks, among other things. This layer will keep you above the snow and the build-up of water.

Roof in the entire trench with a thick layer of branches and overlay this with snow. Remember to plan for an adequate air vent through the brush and snow. Tunnel in on the east side of the shelter, and through this opening stuff in as much insulating material as you can gather. This provides that ever-so-important dead air space. You can plug the door with a block of snow and bed down for the night out of the wind and cold.

From The Tracker magazine, Winter 1983, published by the Tracker School.
For more articles from The Tracker magazine, visit the Tracker Trail website.