46
MLCM
WINTER/SPRING2017
This recent cold snap and windstorm have
instilledmy confidence in the design of the
teepee. I feel like I can comfortably leave my
temporary backcountry lodge unattended in the
harsh weather conditions and I can return in the
next storm knowing I will have a dry place to
stay. As long as the wind isn’t howling from the
northeast, I think I have my smoke flap angles
pretty dialled. But probably not.
Part of a teepee’s charm is its temporal
existence, much like the snowwe ride. The
teepee won’t stay in this spot much longer,
as the days get longer we will move it deeper
into the mountains, into higher terrain, and
eventually return it toAlaska in the spring. Our
time in the backcountry is also often limited,
and accessing these remote places takes a lot
of time and energy. So when the conditions
are firing, what better plan than to strategically
post up and ride it out?
As intended, this lodge is facilitating a
closer relationship to the land, and a deeper
connection with the places we consider sacred.
It makes me inherently happy.
{Thank you, Squamish Nation, for having us on
your traditional territory.}
I come fromCreeheritageon
my father’sside, so culturally
andpractically, the teepeewas
anobviousdirectionwhen
looking for aportable lodge.
But rather than following
buffalo to feedmy family, I’m
chasingperfect pow.
–MasonMashon
LEFT
Slopeside accommodations.Diane Lepage gets out of bed
and into somewaist deep.
ABOVE
Adog's life. Bushy andDex navigate the deep anddry.
