Quick Answer
A quinzhee is a type of snow shelter that requires piling snow into a heap, allowing it to compact, and then hollowing it out for a warm, insulated space. This simple yet effective shelter is ideal for winter survival situations. The construction process typically involves piling and hollowing out the snow.
Gathering and Piling Snow
To build a quinzhee, start by finding a spot with deep, dry snow that can be easily piled. A good location is a spot with a slight incline to prevent water from accumulating. Begin by piling the snow into a heap, using a large, sturdy shovel or your hands. Aim for a pile that is 6-8 feet in diameter and 4-6 feet tall. The pile should be about 1/3 to 1/2 the height of the surrounding terrain.
Compacting the Snow
Allow the snow to compact for a few hours or overnight to create a solid base. This will make the hollowing process easier and safer. Avoid walking on the pile or disturbing it too much during this time to prevent it from collapsing.
Hollowing Out the Quinzhee
Use a shovel or your hands to carefully hollow out the quinzhee, starting from the top and working your way down. The walls should be about 1-2 feet thick, and the floor should be level and even. Remove any loose snow or debris, and use a piece of fabric, branches, or a tarp to cover the entrance and prevent cold air from entering.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.