Posted in Maine Caves, Nature June 23, 2022 by Michelle

For A Mind-Boggling Year-Round Experience Visit The Debsconeag Ice Caves In Maine

We all know that Maine is a quirky place. From giant blueberry-shaped buildings (yes, really!) to unusual museums, there’s always something fun to see. But, if you’re an everyday reader, then you know how much we love being outside here! Hiking, swimming, and biking are all fun ways to stay active. But, what we love most is when our need to be outside also includes some of the more quirky things this state has to offer. Enter: The Debsconeag Ice Caves!

Millinocket might be best known for its ties to Katahdin and the Appalachian Trail, but there’s another hidden gem here that’s worth exploring.

Within the Debsconeag Lakes Wilderness Area are the The Debsconeag Ice Caves.

Like many places in Maine, the name comes from the native people who lived in this area. The word "Debsconeag" means "carrying place,” and refers to their use of the area to carry canoes around rough rivers and waterfalls.

It might feel like a trek to get to the Wilderness Area, but once you’re there, the hike to find the caves is simple.

We love that the beauty of this journey begins right away, starting with the drive. You’ll be taking the Golden Road Scenic Byway for about 20 miles to the Abol Bridge.

At the bridge, head left for three miles before taking another left to the parking area.

You’ll want to follow the blue blazes on the trail for one mile to reach the caves.

Keep an eye out for the blue blaze on the boulder about halfway down the trail. Here you’ll head left.

There are runged steps to help you reach the inside of the caves. Be very careful here and only attempt these if you’re experienced and able. During the winter, these are often frozen. Be extra careful during this time.

During the spring and summer things are a little easier. You might consider wearing ice cleats to help you.

Even in the middle of summer, the caves are cold and often covered in icicles. After doing some careful exploration, you can climb back up the rungs and head back down the one-mile trail the same way you came.

The Debsconeag Ice Caves are located in the Debsconeag Lakes Wilderness Area in Millinocket. You can learn more about exploring the area here.

For more detailed instructions on how to access this beautiful area, take a look at this fun step-by-step video shared by YouTube user: the Untamed Mainer.

For more Maine explorations, check out these 6 caves that are lovely to look at.

Address: Appalachian Trail, Millinocket, ME 04462, USA

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The OIYS Visitor Center

Ice Caves In Maine

June 29, 2022

Chris Dodge

What are some other caves to visit in Maine?

Devil’s Den in Andover is a really great option for caves. The cave is mostly open at the top but you descend down to the bottom and once you do large walls of rock will be surrounding you. Several sources of water pour into the enclosure, making a couple of beautiful waterfalls. One of the best times to go is in the winter. The waterfalls are frozen and look amazing, almost like frozen spires. That being said the summer can also be a great time to visit. Anemone Cave in Acadia is also a great cave, especially if you are up for a bit of adventure. This cave faces the ocean and you can only go in when it is low tide and even then you will want to leave before the ocean rolls back in. This one can be very dangerous but also absolutely beautiful. Thunder Hole, also in Acadia, is technically a cave but not one you will want to enter. The ocean violently crashes into the rocky crag creating a thunderous boom. This one is best viewed from behind the safety railings.

Where else can I see amazing ice formations and winter phenomena?

Be on the lookout for this amazing winter phenomenon. A huge spinning ice chuck. Here is an article with footage of one back in 2019. These formations are huge and quite a sight to see. Sometimes frozen waterfalls can be prettier than waterfalls in the summertime. Check out these 8 Gorgeous Frozen Waterfalls In Maine That Must Be Seen To Be Believed. If you want to just celebrate ice and join a winter event then you should get bundled up and join an event like Carnaval Maine. One other phenomenon that can be seen in Maine is the rare “moon halo” when ice crystals in the air are at just the right level and the moon is in just the right spot you will be able to see a halo circling the moon, its incredible to see and something in the winter you should look for. Check out this article from our next-door neighbor, New Hampshire.

Address: Appalachian Trail, Millinocket, ME 04462, USA

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