How to build a shelter if trapped in wilderness

How to build a shelter if trapped in wilderness

by Sam
(Canada)

Spruce

You can usually find a good lean-to site at the base of a tall spruce with large overhanging boughs. The ground near the base of the spruce is often spongy, drier in rain or freer of snow in the winter.

Place spruce boughs over the poles in an emergency, otherwise use plastic or tarps. There should be one step from bed to fire. There should be two trees to hold up the ridgepole which is tied onto the two trees. The ridgepole holds up branches that make a wall. The ridgepole should be shoulder high off the ground.

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How to build a shelter if trapped in wilderness

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Nov 28, 2008
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Best lean-to design yet!
by: Will

I've seen quite a few lean-to designs, but the all lacked something: heat efficiency. They all just left gaps and open spaces, both bad ideas for shelters. This one utilizes the tree, however, to insulate you, and seems like it would work better.

Jun 28, 2008
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waterproof
by: Anonymous

When making a lean-to or any other shelter that uses green tree branches to waterproof it. Start from the bottom of the frame of the shelter and move up so the water will drain off of the roof instead of leaking in.

Feb 23, 2008
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Spruces
by: James

Always use what the nature can offer to build your shelter. Spruces are the best trees for shelter.

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How to build a shelter if trapped in wilderness

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How to build a shelter if trapped in wilderness