This immersive workshop focuses on essential survival skills for facing winter conditions in the wild. Participants will learn how to stay warm, dry, and safe when navigating cold-weather environments, with practical guidance on building emergency shelters, starting fires in wet conditions, sourcing clean water, and recognizing early signs of hypothermia. Designed for beginners and outdoor enthusiasts alike, this session offers hands-on experience with the tools and techniques needed to survive — and stay calm — in the event of a winter wilderness emergency.
Audience Target: Adults or Ages 10+ with a participating adult.
Format: Seminar & Hike. 2.5 hours, led by Daniel Rundell.
Learning Outcomes:
– Identify and select appropriate shelter sites. Participants will be able to evaluate terrain, wind direction, and available materials to choose safe and effective winter shelter locations.
– Construct a functional winter shelter using natural and provided materials. Participants will demonstrate the ability to build a shelter that offers insulation, wind protection, and weather resistance suitable for Fayetteville’s winter conditions.
– Demonstrate multiple fire-starting techniques in cold and damp environments. Participants will successfully use at least two different fire-starting methods (e.g., ferro rod, flint and steel, natural tinder) to create and sustain a fire in winter conditions.
– Apply safety and environmental stewardship practices during survival activities. Participants will explain and follow best practices for minimizing fire risk, conserving natural resources, and ensuring personal safety in a survival setting.
Fee: $40, $35 for members – (Includes materials, instruction and admission to the Garden)
Please Pre-Register Here: https://shop.capefearbg.org/SelectEvent.aspx?eventID=1000112 Onsite tickets may not be available.
About the Instructor
Daniel Rundell is a northwestern native with many years of outdoor survival and bushcraft experience. His passions include wild edible and medicinal plant knowledge, primitive shelter construction, and self-rescue techniques. Daniel, a former professor at FSU, enjoys spending his free time learning new techniques to use in the wild and is always looking for his next camping adventure.
