Every winter, when the conditions are right, a strange thing happens on Minnesota lakes – especially Lake Superior. This natural phenomenon is mesmerizing to watch as well as listen to, but it only happens during wintertime. If you’re lucky enough to be near the lake shore when conditions are right, you’ll be treated to an almost otherworldly sight. Read on to learn about what causes ice stacking – and to see it in action.

Anyone who has been to Lake Superior - or any Minnesota lake - in the wintertime knows how incredibly beautiful it can be.
Ryan Fonkert/Flickr
It's even more beautiful when a rare phenomenon called ice stacking occurs.
Sharon Mollerus/Flickr
This event only happens when conditions are just right.
Kat B./Flickr

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Ice sheets break, and wind causes the broken pieces to slide on top of each other.
Peter Angelos/Flickr
The effect is the fascinating sight of ice breaking on ice that seems like it will never end.
Sharon Mollerus/Flickr
The jagged remains of ice stacking line lake shores, making for an ethereal sight that will fascinate anyone who walks by.
Sharon Mollerus/Flickr

The results of ice stacking are beautiful, but it’s easier to appreciate the beauty of this wintertime phenomenon if you see it in action. Check out this video by Radiant Spirit Gallery in Duluth to see just how beauty ice stacking on Lake Superior can be:

Have you ever seen this natural phenomenon in action? What are your other favorite parts of winter? Let us know in the comments below!

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