During winter in Maine, much of the state feels completely frozen solid. But, when the spring rolls around, we all thaw out a bit and get ready for summer fun. But, did you know that the annual thaw doesn’t happen everywhere? There’s one place in Maine that’s actually frozen almost the entire year – winter or not! Make your way to the Debsconeag Ice Caves to experience this impressive natural wonder in Maine.

The Debsconeag Ice Caves are located in the Debsconeag Lakes Wilderness Area in Millinocket.
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
The word "Debsconeag" comes from native people in the area and means "carrying place," since they used the area to carry their canoes around rough rivers and waterfalls.
Jane Cantral / Flickr
The cave was created during the ice age when huge glaciers pushed boulders together.

While the area is a bit out of the way, the actual hike to find the cave is fairly straight forward.
And, the beauty begins at the start when you head to the Golden Road Scenic Byway.
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
Then you'll drive about 20 miles towards the Abol Bridge.
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
After reaching the bridge, you’ll make a left and head about 3 miles before taking another left towards the parking area.
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
Begin the trail by following the blue blazes.
Untamed Mainer / YouTube

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Once you’ve done about half the trail, you’ll meet another path where you’ll find a boulder with a blue blaze.
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
At this point turn left. Continue to keep an eye out for the blue blazes, as you head back into the wooded area.
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
If you keep a watchful eye you might spot some hints that you're nearing the ice cave!
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
Once you get to the cave area, you’ll find rungs that allow you to go inside.
WeRmudfun / YouTube
During the winter, these will likely be frozen over.
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
But, during the spring and summer they should be clear for climbing! To be safe, wear ice cleats if you’re visiting during any other season but summer.
As soon as you enter, you’ll feel the cold! And, it’s pretty incredible to see icicles on the walls while it’s warm outside.
WeRmudfun / YouTube
The first room you come to is the largest room in the cave, and there’s plenty of room to stand up and move around.
Shawn Harquail / Flickr
You can continue to explore by finding some smaller areas that will require some climbing over rocks, which is fun for the more adventurous!

To learn more about these Maine ice caves, check out these videos by people who have explored them:

So, did you know about the Debsconeag Ice Caves? Ever visited these ice caves in Maine? Know of any other Maine ice caves? Tell us!

Looking for lodging near the Debsconeag Ice Caves? Check out VRBO, which features accommodations of all kinds, for all tastes and budgets.

And, for more things to do, check out our list of places you’ve got to visit during winter in Maine.

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Debsconeag Ice Caves

Daniella DiRienzo | January 16, 2024

Aside from the Debsconeag Ice Caves, what are some other amazing natural wonders in Maine?

There are several stunning natural wonders in Maine. Here are some of the best natural wonders in Maine:

  • Acadia National Park: One of Maine’s best natural wonders, Acadia National Park is known for its rugged coastline, granite peaks, and diverse ecosystems. The park’s Cadillac Mountain offers breathtaking views, especially during sunrise.
  • Thunder Hole: Located in Acadia National Park, Thunder Hole is a natural rock inlet where waves create a thunderous sound as they crash against the rocks. It's a fascinating natural phenomenon in Maine that’s worth checking out.
  • Gulf Hagas: Often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of Maine," Gulf Hagas is a stunning gorge in the Appalachian Mountains. It’s especially beautiful in fall, when surrounded by colorful foliage.

 

In addition to these Maine ice caves, are there any other caves in Maine?

Maine is not particularly known for an abundance of caves, but there are a few notable caves in Maine that are worth exploring. (Keep in mind that cave conditions and accessibility can vary.) Here are some of the most popular caves in Maine:

  • Moxie Falls Cave: Moxie Falls Cave is situated near Moxie Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Maine. The cave is relatively small, but the surrounding area, including the waterfall, adds to the overall natural beauty.
  • Moose Cave: This little cave is named for the wildlife that made a wrong turn and ended up at the bottom. It's about 600-feet long and boasts 50-foot walls!
  • Devil’s Den Cave: To access this easy-to-reach cave, you can just wander down the path and end up inside this amazing Maine cave. The Black Brook runs nearby and you'll also find some waterfalls.

 

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Debsconeag Lakes Wilderness Area, Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Millinocket, ME 04462, USA