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How to build a classic snow shelter… the Quinzee.

A quinzhee or quinzee (pronounced /kwInzi/) is a shelter made by hollowing out a pile of settled snow. This is in contrast to an igloo, which is made from blocks of snow. The word is of Athabaskan origin.

Temperature inside a snow shelter can be 32 degrees or warmer even when the outside temperature is much lower. There are many types of snow shelters, but one that can be used in a variety of marginal snow cover is the "quinzee" also known as the snow hut.

Quinzees are suitable in most snow conditions; especially when a crust is not available for igloos, or when there is not enough deep packed snow for a snow cave. However, quinzees require a fair amount of work and are usually relatively small, sheltering only 2-3 sleepers.

If built properly a quinzee will be warmer to sleep in than a tent.

How to make a Quinzee

1. To build a quinzee shovel snow into a pile the shape and size of an igloo (don’t pack the snow) and then wait a few hours for the snow structure to settle.  The settling process is called “sintering.” This is a process where snow crystals adhere to one another and bond into a packed structure. Construction is an easier process if the builder buries a pile of pine bows or equipment like backpacks that can be dug out later reducing the amount of work that has to be done.
2. Once you have a large structure of snow piled and it has settled for a few hours, gather sticks approximately 12″ in length and push them all over into the quinzee structure. These will be the quinzee wall thickness guides.
3. Dig an entrance at ground level and slant upwards to create a raised sleeping platform allowing the cold air to flow down and out while sleeping.
4. As you dig and uncover the ends of the sticks, you will have a 12″ wall.  This step will take the most time as only one person can excavate the inside while others outside move the snow away from the entrance.  You may get snow-covered and/or wet when building the quinzee so make sure you have dry clothing immediately available.
5. Try to keep your structure rounded.  A flat roof will sag and eventually collapse
6. Pile up the excavated snow along the sides of your entrance to create a windbreak.
7. Smooth the ceiling as much as possible then light a candle or other heat source to glaze the interior surfaces.
8. Punch ventilation holes with a stick.  Check the ventilation holes frequently and keep them clear.
9. Make a door or alternatively use your backpack to partially block the entrance door from drafts.  Temperatures inside a snow shelter can be 32 degrees or warmer even when the outside temperature is much, much lower.

Stay warm and have fun.