Securing Guide Lines in Snow: The Blizzard Stake Method

Updated at: 25/03/2025

Winter adventures in snowy landscapes offer unparalleled beauty and exhilaration, but navigating challenging terrain requires careful planning and safety precautions. One of the most significant risks is losing your way in whiteout conditions or during sudden blizzards, where even the most experienced mountaineers can become disoriented. This is especially crucial for backcountry skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing enthusiasts venturing far from established trails. Improper navigation in such environments can quickly lead to dangerous situations, underscoring the need for reliable route-marking techniques.

This article introduces a proven method for establishing secure guide lines in snowy conditions: the Blizzard Stake method. This technique, utilizing readily available materials and simple steps, allows you to create a reliable and visible trail, even in the harshest weather. For a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to implement the Blizzard Stake method effectively and safely, read on.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
Safety Guidelines
  • Always prioritize your safety. Do not attempt this if blizzard conditions are severe or visibility is extremely limited. Turn back if conditions worsen.
  • Use multiple stakes per guideline for redundancy. A single stake can be easily dislodged by wind or shifting snow.
  • Ensure stakes are deeply embedded and stable. Loose stakes offer no real protection and can be hazardous.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Anchor

    • Ensure adequate space for tensioning devices.
    • Center the tensioners above and below the stake.
    Center the tensioners above and below the stake.Center the tensioners above and below the stake.
    Prepare the Anchor

  2. Attach Guideline to Stake

    • Feed the guideline through the center hole of the snow tent stake.
    • Loop the guideline over each end of the stake, creating an anchoring device.
    Loop the guideline over each end of the stake, creating an anchoring device.Loop the guideline over each end of the stake, creating an anchoring device.
    Attach Guideline to Stake

  3. Secure the Stake

    • Dig a small anchoring point in the snow.
    • Place the stake into the anchoring point, using the weight of the snow to secure it.
    • Add more snow on top for extra stability.
    Add more snow on top for extra stability.Add more snow on top for extra stability.Add more snow on top for extra stability.
    Secure the Stake

  4. Adjust Tension

    • Adjust tension on the guideline.
    Adjust tension on the guideline.
    Adjust Tension

Read more: Waterproof Your Tent Like a Pro: A Step-by-Step Guide with Kiwi Camp Dry

Tips

  • If snow tent stakes aren't available, use a 10-12 inch branch, wrapping the guideline around it and twisting for security.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Insufficient Stake Length or Improper Placement

Reason: Using stakes that are too short or placing them too shallowly in the snow can lead to the stakes being pulled out by wind or shifting snow, rendering the guideline ineffective.
Solution: Use longer stakes and bury them deep enough to ensure stability, considering the snow conditions.

2. Ignoring Terrain Variations

Reason: Placing guide lines on uneven terrain without accounting for dips, slopes, or obstacles can result in slack lines or lines that are pulled taught unevenly, making them inaccurate or dangerous.
Solution: Adjust stake placement and line tension to compensate for uneven terrain, ensuring a consistently taut and accurate guideline.

FAQs

What materials do I need for the Blizzard Stake method?
You'll primarily need sturdy stakes (wooden or metal, at least 18 inches long), bright-colored flagging tape or ribbon, and possibly a snow shovel to clear a small area for stake placement. Consider using reflective tape for better visibility at night.
How far apart should I place the stakes?
The spacing depends on visibility and terrain complexity. In flat, open areas, 10-15 feet may suffice. In heavily wooded areas or areas with poor visibility, reduce the spacing to 5-10 feet. Always ensure you can easily see the next stake from your current position.
What if I lose my trail markers? What should I do?
Always carry a map, compass, and GPS device, even when using trail markers. If you lose your markers, retrace your steps carefully, following your tracks in the snow, and rely on your navigation tools to find your way back. If you’re unsure of your location, stay put and signal for help.