Posted in Alaska December 16, 2018 by

A Trip Inside Alaska’s Frozen Caves Is Positively Surreal

Inside one of Alaska’s incredible glaciers is a magical place that looks like it’s from a dream. The Mendenhall Ice Caves are absolutely beautiful, glittering with an unearthly blue and shimmering in the cool light. You’ll adore a visit to the ice caves in Alaska for a winter adventure you’ll never forget.

Mendenhall Glacier
Ice Caves
Juneau, AK

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
The adventure includes travel to the accessible ice caves, usually by boat or helicopter, and a trek of a mile or two to get to the caves. This is a great adventure for those with proper warm gear and a love for hiking.
Joseph | Flickr
Most caves are formed when water pours in at a "moulin," basically an entrance into the interior of the glacier. The water eventually finds its way out and into the ocean, leaving a beautiful frozen cave behind.
Joseph | Flickr
The caves are formed from a mere trickle of water melting the interior of the glacier. The caves are rare, hard to reach, and occassionally unstable, so you will want to go with a guide that knows about the current conditions of the terrain.
Joseph | Flickr
These glacier ice caves are illuminated by the sun through the layers of brilliant blue glacier ice. The light has an otherworldly quality and nothing is quite so beautiful.
adam_gulkis | Flickr
Most tours allow ample time in the cave for exploring the details and taking photos.
adam_gulkis | Flickr
A "glaciospeleologist" Is the name for someone who explores ice caves! You'll be a full-fledged glaciospeleologist after a day in the caves.
adam_gulkis | Flickr
The Mendenhall Ice Caves are truly a wonder of the world, found right here in Alaska. If you ever have the opportunity, you will never forget the incredible beauty of this unique feature of Alaska.
arctic_council | Flickr

There are many tour guides and companies that can take you to the ice caves. Here’s one option.

If you love ice, This Beautiful Bar In Alaska Is Made Of Over 1,000 Tons Of Crystal Clear Ice. And this story is fascinating: This Ancient Forest In Alaska Is Melting Out Of The Ice.

Have you been to the Mendenhall Ica Caves? Tell us about it in the comments below.