Building a dugout on the Hungry Wolf Trail

Building a dugout on the Hungry Wolf Trail

In this video, I take you deep into the wilderness along the rugged and mysterious Hungry Wolf Trail, where I build a small wooden cabin from scratch. This is a step-by-step guide to creating a reliable, natural shelter—perfect for survival situations or simply escaping into nature.

Introduction

Welcome to the wild. In this episode, I’m heading out to Hungry Wolf Trail, a remote and challenging forest path known for its dense trees, rocky terrain, and unpredictable weather. My mission: build a sturdy, small wooden cabin using only natural materials and basic hand tools. No electricity, no modern conveniences—just raw survival skills and nature.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Location

The first and most important step is selecting a good spot to build. I look for high ground, away from flood zones and close to a water source. I also check for natural wind barriers like large boulders or thick trees. After some scouting, I find a slightly elevated clearing with enough sunlight and nearby resources—perfect for my shelter.

Step 2: Gathering Materials

Using a simple axe and saw, I begin collecting fallen logs and cutting down small, straight trees. I focus on using dry, rot-free wood for the cabin frame and fresh green branches for insulation. I also collect bark, moss, and stones for other parts of the build.

• Logs for the structure

• Branches for roof support

• Moss and bark for insulation

• Stones for the fireplace and foundation

Step 3: Building the Foundation

I clear the ground and lay a solid stone base to keep the cabin off the damp soil. This helps prevent rot and keeps the interior dry. I then lay thick logs in a square shape to form the cabin's foundation, locking them together with notches for extra strength.

Step 4: Constructing the Cabin Frame

Next, I stack logs for the walls, carefully notching and securing each one. It’s hard work, but slowly the cabin begins to take shape. I leave space for a small door and one window to let in natural light.

Step 5: Roofing the Shelter

The roof is built from long poles laid diagonally, covered with layers of bark, branches, and moss. This creates a waterproof layer that keeps the interior dry even during heavy rain. I add extra weight with stones to secure it in strong wind.

Step 6: Interior and Fireplace

Inside, I smooth out the floor and line it with pine needles for insulation. I build a small stone fireplace at one end for warmth and cooking. Ventilation is key, so I create a small chimney using flat stones stacked vertically.

Final Touches

Once everything is in place, I reinforce weak spots, patch holes with moss, and test the structure by spending a night inside. The result is a warm, safe, and weather-resistant cabin, built entirely by hand, using only what nature provides.

Conclusion

This cabin on Hungry Wolf Trail is more than just a shelter—it’s a symbol of what we can achieve with patience, knowledge, and a deep respect for nature. Whether you're preparing for survival, looking for an off-grid retreat, or simply curious about bushcraft, I hope this video inspires you to explore and build in harmony with the wild.