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. Come along as we take you inside. We’re sure that you’ll adore a visit to these frozen caves in Alaska for a winter adventure you’ll never forget!

This is a great adventure for those with proper warm gear and a love for hiking.
Joseph | Flickr
The adventure includes travel to these accessible Alaskan ice caves, usually by boat or helicopter, and a trek of a mile or two.
Most caves are formed when water pours in at a "moulin," which is basically an entrance into the interior of the glacier.
Joseph | Flickr
The water eventually finds its way out and into the ocean, leaving a beautiful frozen cave behind.
The caves are formed from a mere trickle of water melting the interior of the glacier.
Joseph | Flickr
They 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.

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They are also illuminated by the sun through the layers of brilliant blue glacier ice.
adam_gulkis | Flickr
The light has an otherworldly quality and nothing is quite so beautiful in all of Alaska.
adam_gulkis | Flickr
Most tours allow ample time in the cave for exploring the details and taking photos.
A "glaciospeleologist" Is the name for someone who explores ice caves.
adam_gulkis | Flickr
You'll be a full-fledged glaciospeleologist after a day in the caves yourself!
The Mendenhall Ice Caves are truly a wonder of the world, found right here in Alaska.
arctic_council | Flickr
If you ever have the opportunity, you will never forget the incredible beauty of this unique Alaskan feature.

For more information, check out the U.S. Forest Service website.

There are also many tour guides and companies that can take you to the ice caves. Check with Viator for some options.

Have you ever been to these exciting Alaska ice caves? If so, what was your favorite part? Did you even know that there were frozen caves in Alaska? Do you know of any other caves in Alaska? Tell us about your experiences in the comments below.

If you love ice, be sure to visit This Beautiful Bar In Alaska That Is Made Of Over 1,000 Tons Of Crystal Clear Ice. And read about the Ancient Forest In Alaska Is Melting Out Of The Ice.

If you’d like to explore winter hikes in and around the area, you can find some great trails by going to the AllTrails website.

If you’re still in the mood for more Alaska adventures, take a look at this video:

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More to Explore

More Adventures In Alaska

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | December 13, 2023

Where can we go for a weekend getaway in Alaska?

  • Chena Hot Springs located in Fairbanks is the place to go to enjoy natural hot springs, an ice palace and museum, aurora viewing and more.
  • The town of Seward located on the Kenai Peninsula is popular for boat tours, fishing, and to visit the Alaska Sea Life Center.
  • The town of Ketchikan offers lots to do, including walking the historic boardwalk, hiking, and the nearby Misty Fjords National Monument.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other wonderful places to go for a weekend getaway in Alaska.

What are some road trip ideas in Alaska?

  • Old Glenn Highway Scenic Drive connects Anchorage and Palmer and spans 19-miles through the stunning Alaska farmland.
  • The Denali Park Road, going from McKinley to Kantishna, travels through the heart of Denali National Park and is a once in a lifetime experience.
  • Hatcher’s Pass Scenic Drive between the towns of Willow and Palmer features a wealth of hiking and skiing opportunities depending on the time of year.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other captivating road trip ideas in Alaska.

Where else can we enjoy outdoor adventures in Alaska?

  • Southeast Exposure Outdoor Adventure in Ketchikan is a tribute adventure situated in the middle of the Tongass National Forest.
  • The Icy Strait Point Zip Ride in Hoonah offers 6 thrilling zipline rides that are each 5,330 feet long.
  • The Running Reindeer Ranch in Fairbanks North Star Borough is a unique reindeer-led tour into the outback of Alaska.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other awesome places to enjoy outdoor adventures in Alaska

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Featured Addresses
Mendenhall Glacier, Juneau, Alaska, USA