Apostle Islands Ice Caves Open After 11 Years, Drawing Thousands to Lake Superior

The rare natural wonder has only been accessible to the public in a few years since 2000.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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The Apostle Islands Ice Caves on Lake Superior have reopened to the public for the first time in 11 years, drawing thousands of visitors to the remote location. The ice caves, which form when frigid temperatures allow the waves to freeze along the shoreline, have only been open to visitors in a handful of years since 2000, with the last time being in 2015 for just 9 days. Visitors must hike 2-6 miles roundtrip across the frozen lake to reach the caves, facing harsh winter conditions with no shelter or amenities along the way.

Why it matters

The Apostle Islands Ice Caves are a rare natural wonder that form only in the most extreme winter conditions, making their opening a highly anticipated event for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Their infrequent accessibility highlights the fragility of the environment and the effects of climate change, as warmer winters have prevented the caves from forming in most years.

The details

To reach the ice caves, visitors must hike 2-6 miles roundtrip across the frozen surface of Lake Superior, facing harsh, wet winter conditions with no shelter, water, or cell service along the way. Proper winter gear like waterproof boots and traction devices are essential. Visitors must also pay a $5 per person/day fee and park at off-site locations, as there is no on-site parking available at the Meyers Beach trailhead.

  • The last time the ice caves were open to the public was in 2015 for 9 days.
  • Since 2000, most ice cave visitor events have occurred in just 4 outlier years: 2004, 2008, 2009, and 2014.

The players

Ethan Bott

A Minneapolis resident who has been waiting for years to visit the Apostle Islands Ice Caves.

Bergen and Everly Blazevik

Duluth sisters who got to experience the ice caves during their winter break.

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What they’re saying

“I haven't even made it to the end, but it's already everything you can hope for.”

— Ethan Bott (WDIO)

“It was a long hike, but it's worth it. It's worth it because it's this beautiful.”

— Bergen Blazevik (WDIO)

What’s next

The Apostle Ice Caves could close at any time depending on weather conditions, so visitors are encouraged to check for updates before making the trip.

The takeaway

The rare opening of the Apostle Islands Ice Caves highlights the fragility of this natural wonder and the effects of climate change, as warmer winters have prevented the caves from forming in most years. For those able to make the challenging hike, the ice caves offer a unique and breathtaking winter experience.