Shelter
Dig a snow cave
A snow cave traps body heat and blocks wind, turning a deadly storm into a survivable night.
Ray Mears — Building a Snow Cave
Step-by-step
Find deep, stable snow on a lee slope or drift — not avalanche terrain.
Dig an entrance tunnel lower than the sleeping platform so cold air sinks away from you.
Hollow out a domed chamber large enough to lie in; keep the roof at least 1 foot thick.
Poke a vent hole through the roof with a stick to prevent CO₂ buildup.
Line the floor with pads, packs, or boughs and mark the entrance from outside with a ski or branch.
Warning: Never seal a snow cave airtight. Suffocation from exhaled CO₂ is a real risk without ventilation.
Related outdoor skills
Educational reference only. Wilderness conditions change fast — practice in low-stakes settings, take a certified wilderness first-aid course, and confirm regional regulations before you rely on any of these skills in the field.