The majority of avalanches occur in the backcountry on slopes with an angle of 30 degrees or more, but they can happen on slopes with less of an angle. People cause most avalanches. When a heavy layer of snow sits on top of a weak layer of snow on a slope, an avalanche is possible because the weak layer underneath cannot support the heavy top layer. An avala… read more
Learning how to build a snow cave can be a lifesaver in more ways than one. First and foremost, snow is a powerful insulator against the cold and also against wind. Thus it can aid you in your outdoor survival, especially if you are caught off guard by inclement weather without adequate snow camping gear during a winter hike. Secondly, snow caves that are no… read more
Even with proper knowledge of the outdoors, spending a night in winter conditions without a tent is extremely dangerous. A sleeping bag and warm layers of clothing coupled with a snow cave can greatly increase your odds of survival, but they can't guarantee it. Severe hypothermia is the biggest threat, but frostbite, avalanches and even carbon monoxide poiso… read more
Winter camping often evokes images of snow caves and icy forests. That is sometimes, but not always, the case. Winter camping also embraces the frigid winters of the desert (cold, but mostly dry) and the grasslands (bitterly wind-swept). The main concern in all winter environments is being prepared for the cold. That is what separates a winter camping kit fr… read more
A sudden emergency on the hiking trail is frightening at any time of year, but in the cold and snow of winter, it can be particularly unsettling. Your own mobility is often restricted by deep snows or ice glazes, and the ability of would-be rescuers to reach you is often hampered by severe weather. Packing emergency equipment--and knowing how to employ it--i… read more
The dome-shaped igloo can serve as a warm winter shelter, if you happen to get caught out in an arctic climate with no other viable shelter. It takes a bit of work and technique, but once you get the hang of it, it should go smoothly.… read more
Essential mountaineering gear varies considerably---depending if you are thinking of simply hiking up a snowy mountain or intend to go backpacking and perhaps stay overnight during the summer months. But there are some basics that ever… read more
Exploring the wilderness can be a lot of fun, if you're prepared. Sometimes, though, things don't go to plan, and you find yourself in a survival situation. One of the imperatives for survival is shelter, and no matter where you are yo… read more
When it comes to backpacking and camping, the tent is the most recognizable form of shelter. It's been a camping solution for many years and many outdoor recreationalists may be unfamiliar with any other options. However, to truly save… read more
Winter weather is a formidable adversary. History is replete with armies that were unbeatable in battle that have been defeated and crippled by cold weather. Failure to properly combat the elements can result in death. read more
Alaska's wilderness is one of the most desolate and deadly regions in the world. Glaciers, mountains, wild animals and sub-Arctic winters pose a hazard to travelers, particularly individuals traveling alone. If you are lost or stuck an… read more
First-time visitors to Grand Teton National Park can never be fully ready for the sight of these majestic mountains with their glaciers, unspoiled lakes and diverse ecosystems. Whether you prefer staying in a developed campground or go… read more
Snow is an excellent insulator. That, combined with its sculptable properties, makes it the perfect source of emergency shelter. If you're in a cold, snow-covered environment and need to make a warm, reliable shelter, it pays to know a… read more
Being stranded in the winter is dangerous and a few survival skills have the potential to save your life. The Midwest endures cold winters with high levels of humidity and windy days. It will not take long for hypothermia, dehydration… read more
No single list of survival equipment will do for every situation. Different environments and situations will invariably require different sorts of equipment. The same survival kit that could keep you alive for weeks lost in the mountai… read more
The University of California's Museum of Paleontology defines the tundra as the coldest of all biomes marked by extremely low temperatures, little precipitation, short growing seasons and poor nutrients. As you would expect, those cond… read more
Even the most experienced of outdoor enthusiasts can get lost and find the need to survive in the wilderness. The most intelligent decision you can make if you are going into the wild for any reason at all is to carry with you an emerg… read more
Winter camping appeals to people who enjoy the pristine beauty of snow. Preparing adequately allows you to stay comfortable and ready in case of an emergency such as a snowstorm. Familiarizing yourself with outdoor survival skills and… read more
You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
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