Bayfield Ice Caves

 

Bayfield, Wisconsin is home to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Under the right conditions, the beautiful mainland sandstone sea caves are turned into stunning ice caves in the winter by the wave action of Lake Superior.

The mainland ice caves are accessible from Myers Beach, 18 miles west of Bayfield on Hwy 13. There is a parking lot and stairs to reach the beach. A per person fee is collected when the ice caves are open, and you may need to park a distance away from Myers Beach on busy weekends. During especially cold winters, roundtrip bus service may be offered for visitors. Check online for details.

While these ice formations are nothing short of stunning, it is STILL ice, so extreme caution should be used when visiting the ice caves. Always be sure to check weather conditions and dress appropriately. Since it is a 1.1 mile hike from the beach to the first ice cave, and the caves continue for several miles along the bluff, be prepared not only for the cold but snow and slippery conditions.

You can check to see if the ice caves are open by calling the

Ice Line (715)-779-3397, Ext 3 or check the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Facebook Page.

If old man winter graces Lake Superior with a cold winter, an ice road is created to Madeline Island, allowing you the opportunity to drive from the mainland to the island - and then back again! The ice is monitored and the ice road is marked with evergreen trees - when the trees begin to sink, the road closes. This is an extreme adventure and, once again, extreme caution should be used when making the trek. Call (715) 747-5400 for current condition of the ice road. When you shake off the panic you might experience when you are halfway down the road, call some friends to brag!

ADVENTURE ON