We recently spent some time winter camping in Colorado. We enjoy walking in the snow, along with other wintery, snowy activities.
I’d never heard about tree wells, but every RVer who loves winter camping should know about them. This is information that could save your life!
What is it?
A tree well is a pocket of loose snow that forms around the base of conifer or evergreen trees with low branches. The branches block falling snow from settling close to the trunk. This forms a vertical void or very loose snow immediately around the tree while the surrounding snowpack is denser. That void or gap can be shallow or may extend many feet deep.
The danger
Tree wells form most often in dense evergreens. Fresh powder piles up on top of the branches while the space beneath the boughs stays sheltered and fluffy. The result is a hidden trap. Fresh snow can bridge the opening, so the surface looks solid. However, it won’t support weight.
The situation usually plays out like this: People tend to topple feet- or head-first and become inverted. The loose snow collapses and packs in around the chest and head. Breathing becomes impossible in minutes. This pattern—often called snow immersion suffocation, or SIS—is the primary cause of fatalities related to tree wells.
Rescue is extremely time-sensitive because struggling only compacts the snow tighter. This makes self-extraction often impossible.
Prevention is best
If you’re an RVer who skis, snowshoes, snowmobiles, or hikes in winter, prevention is the most reliable strategy. Stay on groomed trails or runs when possible. Avoid going close to evergreen tree trunks and low branches. Keep clear visual contact with at least one partner whenever you go into snow-covered tree glades.
If visibility or light is poor, consider postponing your hike or other snow activity. These conditions easily hide tree wells and also hide other hazards.
Remember this!
Gear and habits that improve survival odds include the following:
- Go with at least one buddy and keep them in sight.
- Carry a whistle and a simple probe (a collapsible pole works) so a partner can locate you quickly.
- Wear a brightly colored helmet or jacket to stay visible against trees and snow.
- Avalanche airbags do not prevent SIS from tree wells, so don’t treat them as a substitute for good habits in the trees.
If it happens
If a partner falls into a tree well, the immediate response matters. Do not pull upward from above the trunk. That often pushes snow into the victim’s airway.
Instead, locate the head and work from the side. Dig a horizontal tunnel toward the head and clear the airspace around the face first. Keep voice or whistle contact and create an air pocket if possible while more digging is done.
Once a breathing airway is established, continue enlarging the tunnel and free the person carefully to avoid further injury. Rapid, controlled side-tunneling is the standard taught by deep-snow rescue trainers.
Precautions
For RVers parking near trailheads or walking in snow near your campsite, apply these practical rules:
- Scout slopes and tree lines from a distance before walking under branches.
- Avoid walking alone in deep, tree-covered snow.
- Set a clear turnaround or regroup point with your partner so you don’t drift out of sight.
- If you keep a compact first aid and rescue kit in the rig for winter outings, include a probe, small shovel, whistle, and an extra warm layer of clothing.
Video
Watch the video above, but also check out this video that demonstrates how skiing near coniferous trees can be dangerous and how to perform a rescue.
NOTE: The following is of an actual rescue, two years ago at Mt. Baker, Washington, when a backcountry skier accidentally noticed something in the snow as he was going by. (Contains strong language. But listen to their [eventual] conversation. Unbelievable! And the snowboarder was unbelievably lucky!)
Final word
Tree wells aren’t as headline-grabbing as avalanches. However, they’re a stealthy, deadly risk, especially for anyone who gets careless near trees after big snowfalls.
For RVers who love winter landscapes and want to stay safe, the takeaway is straightforward: respect the trees, travel with at least one other person, keep each other in sight, carry simple rescue tools, and practice what to do if someone gets in trouble. Those low-effort precautions are the best way to keep a snow day from turning into a tragedy.
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RVT1250
On the other hand, in certain circumstances, a tree well could be used for survival much like an igloo.
News to me. Especially the side digging rescue approach – good to know. Tnx!
When skiing at Keystone (Colorado) back in the 70’s, I fell into a tree well (didn’t know the term until today) and was hanging upside down still connected to my skis. Amazingly, there was another skier sitting in there with his back to the tree. We just looked at each other and started laughing. Took awhile to get undone from my skis and then for us to dig and climb our way out. Always remember it as a funny episode, but obviously tree wells are dangerous in many situations.