Digging a Snow Cave
A.
A snow cave can mean the
difference between life and death during a storm, but in fair
weather, it is a cheap form of entertainment for people that enjoy
being uncomfortable.Digging
one requires not just know-how but the right conditions: deep snow,
a steep slope, and snow of the right consistency for digging.
Tools required: Snow shovel
and snow saw (optional).
B.
Begin by digging an entrance large enough for a climber to crawl
through. It should be about three feet deep, and dug directly into
the slope. The entrance should also be lower than the main chamber
to prevent winds from blowing into the cave. Prepare to get
wet.
C.
Next, dig the main chamber in, upwards, and to the sides of the
portal. Do not dig down. The outer walls should be no less than one
foot thick. As the climber digs, he/she pushes the snow to the
doorway, where a partner helps shovel the snow outside the cave.
Continue to dig until there is enough room for the number of people
in the party to lie down, and to sit or stand comfortably. The main
chamber should be level and flat.
The walls and ceiling should form a smooth dome when complete to
prevent any drips during the night.
D.
After the main chamber has been dug, create a ventilation hole with
an ice axe. When all occupants are inside, blocks of snow can be
placed in the doorway to stop wind from blowing inside.
Bring on the schnapps.
(Illustrations source: www.pbs.org) |
