How You Can Build a Smokin Hot Snow Castle

Making a snow castle is fun and inexpensive. However, it does require a lot of time, effort and careful planning. The more people you have to help you, the easier it will be. The following steps will help you to build your dream castle.

Snow 101

Temperature has a lot to do with what type of snow you are working with. Wet and heavy snow is excellent for packing and will stay in position much easier. This type of snow is the easiest to work with and is typically found on warmer days. Light and airy snow, has very little moisture and is nearly impossible to deal with. This type of snow is normally found on very cold days. Fresh fallen snow, however is the best snow to use for building a snow castle. It will instantly harden as you begin to build and is very adaptable.

Step 1 - Select a location

Start by picking a good location and planning ahead. Just like you would if you built a real house. You will need a spot that is at least 10' x 10' wide. Also, make sure your spot is located away from the road. Most importantly, build in a shaded area. The ideal location will be shaded and have some shelter from the wind.

Step 2 - Make a Construction Plan

Draw exactly how you want your castle to look. Include everything in your design, such as the entrance, windows, etc. In your construction plan you should outline the date the construction will begin and what you hope to accomplish. It is best to begin your construction on a day when the weather is slightly above zero. Below zero weather is best for the day after you build.

Step 4 - Putting your Plan into action

You will need several shovels and a group of people to make a 8 ft high by 6 ft wide pile of snow. In fact, you may want to use a wheel barrel to make the job easier. This will be an exhausting job, and it could take up to 4 or 5 hours. Once you are finished, take a break and let the snow sit overnight (at least 6 hrs). The hardest part is now finished.

The next morning you will want to gather some tools that you have laying around the house. Small gardening tools are perfect for sculpting your castle. Think of your snow pile as a gigantic piece of clay for you to design and sculpt anyway you like. You can make the outside walls look like brick or you can make it smooth and glassy. It is your very own castle and you can design it anyway you like! Just remember to make the entrance to your castle last, this will prevent the snow from crumbling and caving in!

When you are finished, grab a cup of hot chocolate, a few friends and chill in your new snow castle!