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Build a Snow Cave
In the wintertime, Mother Nature can create an incredible building material for outdoor adventurers: SNOW! With a few hours of hard work and a little creativity, it's entirely possible to build a snow cave - a winter shelter that's perfect for camping, exploring and more.
Prepare the Snow
First, choose a large, flat area. If you have enough snow, the ideal location is at the bottom of a large snow drift. Using shovels or other tools, start scooping out chunks of snow and piling it up at the side of your site.
Shovel Out the Cave
Next, you'll need to dig out the actual cave. Make sure the area for the cave is wider on the outside than the inside - the cave should form an upside-down cone shape. Shovel out the center of the cave, creating an area with enough room for you and any other people who will be joining you.
Pack the Walls and Roof
Now it's time to give your cave some structural integrity. Take the snow that you shoveled out and start packing it into the walls and roof of the cave. Don't be afraid to really pack it in there; make sure the walls and roof are at least eight inches thick. Use the extra snow pieces to block any drafty areas.
Refine the Entrance
You're almost finished! All that's left is to refine the entrance to the cave. Make sure the entrance is large enough to get in, but small enough to block out cold air. Consider building an arch or knocking extra snow off the sides and top to create a tunnel-like entrance.
Ready to Go!
Your snow cave is now complete! Don't forget to leave a small air hole at the top of the cave to keep air circulating. And don't forget your shovel - it's always a good idea to bring it along just in case you need to dig your way out!