Lake Superior Ice Caves Reopen After a Decade of Limited Access

For the first time in over a decade, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore’s ice caves are open to the public, offering a rare glimpse into a stunning natural phenomenon. The caves officially opened on Monday, February 16, 2026, according to the National Park Service Apostle Islands National Lakeshore website.

A Rare Natural Wonder

The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, located in southwestern Lake Superior, comprises 21 of the archipelago’s 22 islands according to the National Park Service. The ice caves themselves are a natural formation along the mainland cliffs, situated near Meyers Beach, approximately 70 miles from Ironwood, Michigan as reported by the Detroit News.

Access and Safety Considerations

Visiting the ice caves requires a hike across miles of ice, making access dependent on specific safety thresholds. The National Park Service warns that access can be closed with little notice due to changing ice conditions as detailed in a Facebook post. Daily updates on cave accessibility are available by 7:30 a.m. On the National Park Service’s website, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Facebook page, or by calling the Ice Line at 715-779-3398, extension 3.

Transportation and Fees

The Meyers Beach parking lot is currently closed to vehicle traffic. Visitors must utilize county-run shuttles to reach the trailhead. Shuttle service costs $10 for a round-trip ticket, with departures every 25 to 30 minutes. The last shuttle to the drop-off point leaves at 3:00 p.m., and all visitors must return by 5:30 p.m. according to the Detroit News. There is a $5 per-person fee for ages 16 and older to visit the ice caves; children under 16 are admitted free.

Preparing for Your Visit

Visitors should be prepared for a 2- to 6-mile round trip hike across uneven ice, with limited cell service, no shelter, and no access to water the National Park Service advises. Appropriate attire for cold winter conditions is essential.

Limited Access History

From 2000 to 2023, the Mainland Ice Caves were open for only 2% of all days as reported by the New York Post. Most openings have occurred in 2004, 2008, 2009, and 2014.