When caught in a blizzard, snow isn’t just an obstacle—it’s your lifeline. Crystal snow, the dry, fine powder common in extreme cold, is surprisingly ideal for shelter construction. Its cohesive nature allows you to pack it tightly. Start by digging into a deep drift or snowbank to create a snow cave, or pile loose snow into a mound over a frame (like branches or gear) to build a quinzhee. Compact the walls thoroughly—this traps insulating air pockets, creating a barrier against wind and cold. A well-built snow shelter can maintain an interior temperature near freezing, even when outside temps plummet far lower, buying you critical time until rescue.
