Quote:
Originally Posted by Sarski
Quick question(s) about the snow cave, as I have heard digging into the snow for shelter is a great survival skill in extreme weather.
Can you please elaborate on the cave itself? Does it need to be a certain depth below the snow? One opening or two? Does one cover the main opening with snow or brush just enough so airflow is not hampered? How big should the cave be, or how far should one tunnel into the snow away from the main opening?
Also does it matter if you sleep with your head towards or away from the main opening? Thanks in advance.
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The snow cave can be built on flat ground.
Two men can build a snow cave in under 3 hours without too much effort. While snow is piled high, 4-5ft., another walks on the pile compressing it tight with snow shoes or skis. I prefer the shovel to the endless stompting, so take turns, both tasks are tough.
The inside dimensions should accomodate the width of two persons with enough roon in between for cooking (18"), equipment, etc., the length to accomodate sleeping bags, rucksacks. Leave skiis and snow shoe outside.
One person should do the digging, the other to watch for thinnning walls. Make a air vent with a ski pole from the inside. The digging person will wear jacket, pants, plan on getting wet. Use pots, pans, small shovel to shape the inside cave.
I've made many snow caves, most are good for 2 nights, 3 if your lucky, snow does melt with bodies inside, temps will rise quickly above 32degrees, higher still if you burn alot of fuel, melting ice, cooking, etc. I've awakened many mornings with the cave settling more then a foot from original ceiling heigth.
A snow drift will last longer, but really tough to dig and you never know the ground level, depth, size, etc. I had success along tree lines, fences and the old barn. Practice making caves long before you ever think you might need to ever make one. Caves can be built in the city park, golf cources, they are fun to do, kids like them and you can always go home for popcorn, movies and hot chocolate.
Good luck.