In recent years, local magician and engineer David Jans has taken snow fort building to the next level.
Over the course of two days, he and his family transformed a snow hill into a 23-foot-long, 15-foot-wide and 8-foot-tall snow cave, complete with load-bearing pillars, snow furniture, and enough space for 25 people. If this winter’s weather cooperates, the clan plans on building a two-storey fort. Here, he shares a few tips on building your own epic winter hut.
GATHER THE SNOW
The Jans family collected snow for three weeks before they began digging. “Our dad blew snow from all around the yard into one massive pile. After leaving it to sit and settle for a few days, my brother Kevin and I started to dig a tunnel from opposite ends,” reports David.
GET THE PROPER TOOLS
While papa Jans had access to some heavy-duty equipment, a regular snowblower and good ol’ shovels would do the trick to begin building your mountain.
PLAY SAFE
Always keep safety first when tackling a snow hill. “The number one rule is to dig with at least with one other person and to also let someone else know that you’ll be digging under snow.”
THINK BIG
The sky’s the limit! Get creative and make it a family affair. David says anyone can build a giant fort like theirs—all you really need is some determination, a snow pile, and some eager helpers.
