If you find yourself stranded in the woods, you will need to find shelter from the elements, as well as any animals or dangerous creatures that my be out there prowling in the night. To learn more about how to find shelter in the woods, check out the tips and information provided on this page.
If you find yourself stranded in the woods, you will need to find shelter from the elements, as well as any animals or dangerous creatures that my be out there prowling in the night. To learn more about how to find shelter in the woods, check out the tips and information provided on this page.
Introduction
- Whether you're a stranded traveler or a hiker who needs to find shelter at the last minute, the tips provided on this page will provide you with outdoor shelter in a pinch.
Step 1: Felled Trees
- Depending on the size of the tree, a felled tree can provide shelter if you find yourself outrunning inclement weather. You can often settle underneath the tree, between the tree and the earth, and sometimes in the crevice created by the root system. You may be able to dig out the crevice more deeply and shelter down inside it, using the tree roots as a backdrop against he wind. Another option is to build a lean-to shelter by propping up sticks along the fallen tree and crouching behind them.
Step 2: Small Caves
- In some instances, you may be able to shelter inside a small, abandoned cave. It is imperative that you make certain the cave is abandoned before you take up residence in it, otherwise you might be caught off guard by the residents when they wake up, or return from wherever they have been. Check around the cave for signs of fresh tracks and scat to determine how long the animals have been gone. Even more important, make sure the cave is sturdy and that it isn't going to fall in around you.
Step 3: Building Shelter
- Building your own shelter is probably your best bet. The materials are available to you, lying all over the forest floor.
- Find an outlook against a tree or a rock face that you can build your shelter around to keep out the wind.
- Try to find a place in the shade, so you are not baking in the sun.
- Use felled branches and rocks to create shelter around you.
- Fill in spaces with leaves, mud or if it is winter, use snow, as this will insulate your shelter.
Conclusion
There are a number of options when it comes to finding shelter in the woods. Felled trees are a great place to start. You may also want to consider squatting in a small, unoccupied cave. You can build your own shelter using forest materials as well.
