Mountains are no joke. In addition to falling off the side of one and dying a lousy death, there’s also the threat of avalanche, assorted large predators, and that pesky thin air. Getting lost in a mountain range is usually the result of separation from a hiking party, but whatever the cause, it’s important to know how to survive until rescue is possible. Check out a few tips to ensure you won’t die, no matter how many thousands of feet above sea level you are:
Fire
Freezing to death is certainly a concern when stranded in a mountain range, so it’s important to wear every piece of clothing you have with you if lost during chillier weather. Even if it’s summer, you need a source of warmth. Knowing how to make fire is one of the best survival skills you can have, as it allows you to stay warm, heat water and food, and keep bears and other large animals from approaching you. It’s doubtful you’ll encounter trouble finding dry spruce and pine branches to use as kindling, and if you have a lighter or matches on your person, fantastic. Otherwise, you’re pretty much stuck rubbing two sticks together.
Water
Mountain streams are usually a good water source, however if you can heat it or use purification tablets, you won’t run the risk of contracting a particularly unpleasant strain of bacteria. Keep in mind that bears also frequent mountain streams to enjoy assorted fish, so try not to stay too long when obtaining water. If in the Rocky Mountains…well, you’re in Grizzly country, so be aware!
Shelter
When constructing a lean-to on the side of a mountain, it’s essential it does not face the wind. It’s also important to spread dry leaves around inside your shelter to protect you from the cold ground. If lost in snowy weather and you know how to build a snow cave, ensure you poke a hole through it to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
Food
It’s possible to catch fish with your hands, but it takes a lot of patience and time, something you may not have if bears are around. To catch fish with your paws, sit around shallow water and press one down into the stream bed as soon as you see it. Use the dirt from said bed to help you grasp the fish. Cook all meat if possible, and catch edible insects, such as centipedes and ants. Remove the heads of centipedes before eating, as they bite. Worms are another food source, as are snakes. Again, if in Rocky Mountain territory, stay away from rattlers. However, if you do decide to consume a rattlesnake, cut off the venomous head and tail, peel off the skin, and remove the guts before chowing down.
These are just a few tips for surviving in the mountains! What are your best mountain survival tips? Share them in the comments section!