Bump on this thread, due to all the deaths showing up relating to tree wells.
I say that, because tree wells are one of the "special tricks" in snow survival.
In about 10 minutes, you can build a quick snow shelter in a tree well, conditions permitting. So if a storm is about to slam you, this is an option that is far better than other snow shelters, which take a lot of time. (assuming trees are handy.)
http://www.survivalcommonsense.com/2010/01/26/quick-snow-shelters/http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/outdoors/2003570749_nwwsnowsafety152.htmlhttp://books.google.com/books?id=SKt_u35...p;q&f=false
