Posted in Maine December 13, 2018 by

A Trip Inside Maine’s Frozen Caves Is Positively Surreal

It should come as no surprise to most people that Maine winters include a lot of snow, wind and ice. For the most part, we expect to see that ice during a major storm or another dramatic weather event. But, there’s one place in Maine that’s covered in ice the entire year! It’s a bit off the beaten path, but so worth a visit for those who love the unique natural areas in Maine.

You’ll find the unique Debsconeag Ice Caves in the Debsconeag Lakes Wilderness Area in Millinocket.
Sara MacKenzie / Google
Its name means "carrying place" in the language of the native people who originally inhabited the area. These people carried their canoes around the harsh rivers and waterfalls here in order to navigate the region.
The incredible ice cave was formed when huge glaciers pushed boulders together during the ice age.
chadfennell / Flickr
In order to explore the area, you’ll need to drive a bit off-the-beaten path and then embark on a hike. But, don’t worry! The hike is fairly easy to follow.
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
You’ll start the journey by driving down the Golden Road Scenic Byway for about 20 miles until you reach Abol Bridge.
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
At the bridge, head left and drive for about 3 miles. Here you’ll take another left towards the parking area.
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
Follow the blue blazes on the trail and you’ll know you’re heading in the right direction.
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
Go about halfway down the trail and you’ll hit another path with a nearby boulder and a blue blaze. You’re on the right track!
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
Here, make a left and continue keeping an eye out for the blue blazes. You’ll know you’re going the right direction if you find yourself heading back into the forest.
The ice cave has a runged ladder allowing you to descend inside.
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
This time of year during the winter, the rungs will probably be frozen over.

But, during the spring and summer they should be clear for the climbing! It’s best to wear ice cleats when you visit.
No matter the time of year, you’ll feel the cold as soon as you enter. And, during the summer, the ice covering the walls feels totally surreal!
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
The largest room is the first you’ll come to and there’s plenty of room to stand up and move around.
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
You can continue to explore by finding some smaller areas that will require some climbing over rocks, which is fun for the more adventurous!
harquail / Flickr
Once you’re done exploring, you’ll turn around and head back the same way you came.
mylilangel58 / Flickr
canadianveggie / Flickr

For more about this beautiful cave, check out this video showing an actual visit:

These ice caves aren’t the only icey wonder here in Vacationland. Check out this bar, which isn’t entirely naturally occurring (okay, it’s not at all naturally occurring) but is very cool!