Weekend Camping

This weekend I was fortunate to get a chance to do some backpacking and hiking. I love the fact that I live so close to some prime wilderness. Practically out my door are waterfalls, great trails, tons of wildlife, and endless peak views!!! Well this weekend the dogs (Radish and Sedona) and I busted out and ended up camping on a ridge in an aspen grove with outstanding views of Pikes Peak. While my plans were to enjoy the fresh air and get in some snowshoeing (we were expecting up to a foot!), in reality the snowfall was minor, only about 4 inches and the wind was so brutal after about 1 a.m. that most of the fresh powder was blown away. I did however get to practice building a primitive shelter. It was pretty sturdy and provided more than adequate shelter from the wind and snow, Radish actually took it over and kicked me out so I consider that to be proof that it was good enough. Perhaps I will get more chances to work on the technique and figure out exactly what would make the absolute best design for these winter conditions. After all practice is the only sure way to be prepared.