Snow Camping!

Last weekend, our troop went on a backpacking trip to Mount Rainier, where we spent one night in the snow. We snowshoed about a quarter mile from the road to Paradise campsite. If we didn't have snowshoes, our feet would sink into the snow and do what is called post-holing.

After setting up our tents, four scouts located two separate hillside spots and began to dig a snow cave. Digging a snow cave lasts the whole day, but keeps you occupied enough to not get bored. A snow cave must be dug deep, so the roof can have enough structural integrity not to collapse.

After digging the caves, the four scouts were allowed to sleep in their snow caves overnight. Contrary to what most people think, snow caves can be very warm and quiet if the inhabitance prepare properly; this is because snow is a very good insulator and blocks sound. Believe it or not, the four scouts in the snow caves were warmer than the ones in tents.

Unfortunately, when we woke up it was snowing pretty heavily, getting lots of campers wet and cold. Thankfully everyone went home happy and fulfilled at our amazing adventure!