Beat the Winter Blues with a Trip to a Wisconsin Ice Cave

If someone were to ask you, "What is winter in Wisconsin like?" -- what would you say? If I had to guess, I'd think the frigid nature of the weather might come up first. Many people have no idea that winter in Wisconsin is a delightful time of year, especially if you're a fan of natural wonders, photogenic landscapes, and so much more. Take, for example, the Apostle Ice Caves, which shine this time of year (quite literally in some cases).

The Apostle Islands Sea Cave is one of Lake Superior's most incredible geological formations. Sure, Wisconsin is landlocked, but luckily, we have direct access to a couple of our Great Lakes - this being one of them - and these bodies of water make for amazing day trip possibilities, even when it's cold.

The Chequamegon Bay Ice Caves open every January - sometimes as late as February, depending on the weather - and you can't skip the Mainland Ice Caves, either. There are a few other notable bits and pieces of these ice caves, but they haven't been open since 2015; my favorite way to double-check (because you never know) is by checking out the official Apostle Islands Ice Cave Tours website. I strongly encourage a tour - it's a blast!

It's important to note that these ice caves are more fragile than they might seem; this is a slippery, frozen environment, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes that help you keep a grip on your footing. The caves form every year when freezing water from the lake seeps through cracks and layers of sandstone caves, forming fascinating icy statues that make the entire place look like something out of a fantasy novel more than the American Midwest.

Another important note that must be made is that the ice caves don't even form every year; it's a very special natural process that requires the lake to freeze solid enough to be walked on. Of course, here in Wisconsin, that's not exactly a tall order; temperatures can easily plunge well below zero, and each year, one can expect anywhere from 40-80% of the lake's surface to freeze over.

The Apostle Islands are something incredibly special. This is an outrageously scenic location, one that doesn't feel like Wisconsin, and I promise: no matter what time of year you decide to show up, the experience will be magical. It is especially so in the winter, and I cannot get enough of it.

If you'd like to access the caves, please know that a bit of work comes with it -- sometimes, you might have to walk over a mile across the iced-over lake to reach them. I strongly recommend going with a professional tour the first time you visit; that way, you can play it safe and still have an incredible time. Check out the Meyers Beach Sea Cave Trail for a great starting point. And if you're an avid hiker and want to step your game up to 11, check out AllTrails Plus. I don't know how I ever hiked without it!

Do you have a favorite natural wonder in Wisconsin that just gets better in the winter? Tell me about it by filling out our nomination form.