Winter in the northern bush is a magical time, when all the bugs and people have settled down for the season. For peoples of the north, winter was the traveling season. When frozen and covered with snow, the waterways and low-lying areas made ideal routes for travel. Burdens were easily transported by toboggan or sled, and the whole of the frozen north suddenly became within walking distance.

Our techniques and philosophy for the winter trail come from those who routinely spent entire winters in the bush. They understood winter's wisdom, and lived with a grace and economy unheard of in modern winter camping. We have learned from their methods, and see it as a sign of intelligence and sophistication to be warm and comfortable while living and traveling in weather that is frequently below zero degrees(F).

We stay in canvas and Egyptian cotton tents, as well as in shetlers we construct. Our tents are outfitted with titanium wood stoves, which are light and easily transportable. Our handmade toboggans are made of both traditional wood and modern plastic. Such traditional gear allows us to be mobile, self-sufficient, and comfortable while in the bush.

Our days start with the woodstove being stoked, and the resulting warmth coaxing people out of their sleeping bags. Coffee and breakfast is soon on the stove, and after a nourishing meal we pack up camp or explore the surrounding territory. Lunch is an easily prepared meal that often takes place away from camp, complete with kettles of tea and coffee. At supper we have freshly baked bread and often finish with a bucket of snow cream. After darkness falls, the tents are illuminated with candles. The light is reflected by the white cotton of the tent, creating a cheerful atmosphere. The winter night sky has treasures to show us. When the constellation Orion is visible, 9 of the 21 first-magnitude stars are visible, creating a breathtaking feast for the eyes. Settling in amongst the tranquility of the winter forest, we sink into sleep one by one, until the tent is quiet and only the whispers of the forest can be heard.

It is common for people to be surprised at how comfortable winter can be with the proper knowledge and gear. Many are the nights I have drifted off to sleep after seeing the northern lights dance across the sky, listening to the song of coyotes in the distance, and warmed by the heat of the woodstove.

For more of what life on the winter trail is like, read Dan Fisher's Winter Trip Journal from 2001.

[ back to top ]

	Jack Mountain Bushcraft School • Masardis, Maine • USA Contact • Site Map
	Copyright © Jack Mountain Bushcraft, LLC - All rights reserved.