Ice Excavation Race

Ice excavation race. Freeze treasure in ice overnight, then race to dig it out.

The night before, freeze small toys, plastic dinosaurs, or coins in yogurt tubs, muffin tins, or a big bowl, adding water in layers so the treasure sits at different depths. Next day, set up outside on grass or a patio with trays, spoons, squeeze bottles of warm water, salt, and toy hammers. Race to free your treasure first, or work as a team on one giant block. Sprinkle food coloring on the salt for colorful cracks. Get a photo of the first treasure held up dripping.

• Adventure
• 1-3 hours
• Easy
• Under $20
• Outdoors
• Spring and summer
• Daytime

Photo prompts along the way

1. The frozen blocks
2. The dig tools
3. The first crack
4. The treasure held up
5. The melted mess

Kids' version

Dig the treasure out of the ice!

1. Your ice block
2. Pour the warm water
3. Something you can see inside
4. Your treasure!
5. A selfie with your grown-up!

Checked November 2026

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