greg.potter
Adventurer
I have used the trench anchor method in soft material such as snow and sand using skis, paddles, ice axe, driftwood - pretty much what ever is at hand. Dig a trench in the sand / snow / whatever perpendicular to the direction of the pull. Tie a rope / cord around the anchor and place it in the trench. From the middle of the main anchor trench dig a perpendicular sloping trench toward the load for the rope / cord. This is a standard practice in mountaineering - also referred to as T slot anchor.
Another option for harder ground is to go to your local lumber yard and pick up some 12 - 16 inch nails. I prefer the ardox (spiral shank) versions. If you get them in galvanized they won't rust. Dirt cheap and stronger than any tent peg you will ever buy at an outdoor shop. Probably not the right option if you are backpacking though.
Another option for harder ground is to go to your local lumber yard and pick up some 12 - 16 inch nails. I prefer the ardox (spiral shank) versions. If you get them in galvanized they won't rust. Dirt cheap and stronger than any tent peg you will ever buy at an outdoor shop. Probably not the right option if you are backpacking though.