With its pristine snowscapes and serene silence, winter offers a unique canvas for adventure. However, embracing the cold outdoors requires courage, the right skills, and knowledge. This is where Martin Pine, affectionately known as Pine Martyn, steps in, transforming the daunting into the doable, and the chilly into the cozy.
Featured on the Super Good Camping podcast for his profound expertise in Crownland backcountry camping, Martin is not your average outdoor enthusiast. His passion for exploring the untouched terrains of government-owned lands, where adventurers can camp for up to 21 days at a stretch, is matched only by his commitment to preserving these natural treasures. Through his YouTube channel, he shares this passion, guiding others on how to responsibly enjoy the freedom that Crownlands offer.
But Pine’s repertoire extends far beyond mere camping. He is a maestro of winter outdoor skills, offering courses that delve into the practical aspects of surviving and thriving in the cold. From tarpology to the art of igloo building, Pine equips his students with the knowledge to embrace winter activities.
The Igloo: A Snow Shelter Like No Other
One of Martin’s most fascinating teachings revolves around constructing snow shelters, particularly igloos. While many are familiar with the Quinzee, a shelter made by hollowing out a pile of settled snow, Pine champions the igloo for cold camping scenarios. His reasoning is compelling: igloos boast superior structural integrity, warmth, and durability.
Building an igloo, however, is no simple task. It requires understanding the importance of the catenary arch shape – a concept that ensures stability and efficient use of snow. Martin advocates for the modern Icebox Igloo Tool, a device that aids in creating uniform blocks, streamlining the construction process. This tool, as Pine enthusiastically explains, not only makes building an igloo accessible but also enjoyable.
Teaching the Next Generation
What truly sets Pine apart is his dedication to education. He finds profound fulfillment in passing on his knowledge, especially to children. By teaching them the intricacies of igloo construction and its engineering principles, Pine is nurturing a love for outdoor activities and an appreciation for the natural world.
His approach goes beyond mere survival skills; it’s about fostering a connection with nature, understanding its nuances, and respecting its boundaries. Through his courses and online content, Pine Martyn is not just teaching people how to build snow shelters; he’s inspiring a new generation of outdoor enthusiasts to explore responsibly and sustainably.
Join the Adventure
For those intrigued by the prospect of winter camping or looking to deepen their outdoor skills, Martin Pine’s insights offer a gateway into a world where the cold is not a barrier but a playground. Whether through his appearances on podcasts like Super Good Camping or his engaging YouTube channel, Martin offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.
So, as the snow begins to fall, consider the possibilities that winter camping holds. With Martin’s guidance, the frozen landscape transforms from a challenge to conquer into a wonderland to explore. Embrace the cold, master the art of igloo building, and discover the joys of winter camping under the tutelage of Martin Pine, a true sage of the great outdoors.