How to Make a Quick Igloo

Building an igloo can be an entertaining challenge, whether you are attempting the task in the mountains on a ski trip or just in the backyard for an overnight feat of bravery. An igloo's construction requires minimal tools, but plenty of hard-packed snow. This activity is ideal for the young and young-at-heart alike, and is sure to impress your children and their friends --- as well as turn heads of all ages around your neighborhood.

Things You'll Need

  • Sticks
  • Snow saw
  • Snow spade
  • Candle
  • Matches
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find an area in which the snow is thick but also hard packed. You may have to dig under the soft surface snow to check how hard packed the snow is.

    • 2

      Mark a circle of the desired size by placing sticks vertically in the snow.

    • 3

      Cut blocks of snow as large as you want, and roughly a foot square, with the snow saw. The snow should be naturally packed tightly enough that the blocks are sturdy.

    • 4

      Place your largest snow blocks adjacent to each other around the perimeter of the area you have marked with sticks. Ensure they are placed slanting inward. This will be the bottom level of your igloo. Leave a spot for an entrance.

    • 5

      Set a second level of snow blocks on top of the bottom level of blocks. The second level's blocks should be slightly smaller than those on the bottom, and placed so that they angle in toward the center of the igloo.

    • 6

      Remove excess snow from the inside of the igloo, now that the foundation is secure.

    • 7

      Place a third level of blocks onto the growing wall. Again, these blocks should be slightly smaller than the blocks below and continue to angle toward the center of the igloo.

    • 8

      Continue adding levels of snow blocks until the igloo is roughly sealed. Add the top blocks from the inside of the igloo.

    • 9

      Patch up any holes with loose snow or hard snow specifically cut to fit the holes. Pack it tightly to ensure no wind will blow through the igloo.

    • 10

      Smooth the inside of the igloo by running your hands over its surface. Push the excess snow to the igloo's entrance and remove it.

    • 11

      Light a candle on the floor in the center of the igloo. Its heat will slowly help bond the walls together.

    • 12

      Dig the floor down as low as possible to make the inside of the igloo taller.