The Eben Ice Caves, a winter wonderland located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, is a popular destination for thousands of visitors each year. Hidden in the Hiawatha Forest, the ice caves are a part of the Rock River Canyon Wilderness Area, spanning 4,700 acres, which is protected by the Michigan Wilderness Act of 1987.
Previously, visitors had to navigate a rut-filled country road and a snow-covered farm field to reach the caves. However, thanks to Jim and Matt Rondeau, who own the land surrounding the ice caves trailhead, visitors now have access to a spacious parking lot and a restroom. The parking lot is accompanied by a drop box for $5 suggested donations per vehicle, and according to the entry sign, “Wilderness Canyon, LLC is a privately funded venture to allow public access to the Rock River Canyon Wilderness Area and Eben Ice Caves.”
To reach the caves, visitors must walk approximately a mile through a stunning snow-covered forest, which becomes increasingly steep and slippery as they approach the caves. It is highly recommended that visitors bring poles and wear traction cleats, crampons, or snowshoes with metal teeth.
Once visitors reach the caves, they are greeted by breathtaking ice formations created by freezing snow melt over the edge of a small cliff. Although visitors are permitted to explore the caves at their own risk, caution is advised as the caves can be wet and slippery. The backside of the ice formations showcases a variety of colors ranging from green to yellow to blue and white, while ice columns descend from the cave walls, and smaller ice stalactites grow from the cave’s ceiling.
