How to Build an Adirondack Lean-To

An Adirondack lean-to is one step above sleeping without shelter. Rustic, easy to build and adequate protection in snow and rain, lean-tos have been used in the mountains by hunters and hikers for centuries. They were popular before tents became common camping gear. The structures typically lean against a support and are open on one side. More permanent lean-to style buildings have shingled roofs, solid walls and a wooden floor. These steps are for a basic Adirondack lean-to.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Trees
• Logs
• Branches
• Lashing

1. Find two sturdy trees that are about seven feet apart. Clear brush and rock out of the area between the two trees to a distance of about six feet on one side of the trees. This will be the floor of the lean-to.

2. Cut a sturdy, straight log the length of the distance between the two trees plus about six inches on each end. Strip off the branches and save them. Lash the log between the two trees about five feet up from the ground.

3. 

   Lay logs of equal length about six inches apart with one end against the pole and the other on the ground. The longer the branches, the larger the shelter will be. Strip off the branches.

4. Tie a row of branches with needles or leaves at the top of the lean-to. Continue laying branches downward until you reach the ground. The branches should stay in place, but if they don't, tie some of them down. Make this roof as thick as you'd like.

5. Secure branches to the sides of the lean-to by hanging them from the roof line and tying them in place. This step is optional.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose a spot with brush on both sides to provide shelter for the lean-to. Build the lean-to so that the open side is away from wind and rain.

• Don't build a fire inside the lean-to. The wood may catch on fire and the interior will fill with smoke.

References

• Basic Outdoor Shelters
• Professionally Built Lean-Tos
• Winter Camping Tips

Resources

• Adirondack Life