The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore may reopen its famous ice caves near Meyers Beach to visitors beginning Feb. 16 if conditions remain stable.
The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore made the announcement Feb. 14 on its Facebook page.
The ice caves were last accessible to the public in 2014 and 2015.
Located 18 miles from Bayfield, the ice caves offer a rare opportunity for a stunning but challenging winter adventure, according to the post. Officials stressed that public safety is the highest priority.
The National Park Service cautioned that conditions can change rapidly, and access may close suddenly if conditions deteriorate. Visitors are urged to check the National Park Service’s webpage for updates before travel.
In 2015, for the second straight year, the Apostle Islands ice caves were accessible due to thick ice thanks to the cold winter. Visitors were able to traverse the frozen Lake Superior shores near Bayfield, hiking more than 2 miles round-trip to view the natural majestic sculptures. The season lasted a mere 9 days.
In 2015, for the second straight year, the Apostle Islands ice caves were accessible due to thick ice thanks to the cold winter. Visitors were able to traverse the frozen Lake Superior shores near Bayfield, hiking more than 2 miles round-trip to view the natural majestic sculptures. The season lasted a mere 9 days.
Beginning Feb. 16, visitors must access the ice caves via county-run shuttles to the trailhead. The Meyers Beach parking lot is currently closed to vehicle traffic and parking. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation has prohibited roadside parking on Highway 13 and no on-site parking is available at Meyers Beach.
The cost to visit the ice caves is $5 per person for ages 16 and older. It’s free for those under 16. Payment must be made online.
Additional fees apply for off-site parking and the shuttle service operated by Bay Area Rural Transit. Parking and shuttle fees are separate from the National Park Service charges.
Visitors can expect a 2- to 6-mile round-trip hike on uneven, slippery lake ice with no shelter, no running water, and limited cell service. Park officials urge visitors to dress in warm layers, waterproof boots with traction devices, and windproof outerwear.