Usually when we talk about going to visit a frozen destination, the most ideal time to explore these a place like this would be during the winter time. But what if I let you in on a little secret? Down on the Shawangunk Ridge, there’s actually a set of Ice Caves that you can only visit during the warmest parts of New York’s year! Sounding too strange and unusual to be true, keep reading to discover why this one cave is one of the most magical places that you’ll ever hike to.

Part of Minnewaska State Park Preserve, Sam's Point Preserve covers nearly 5,000 acres of gorgeous land on the Shawangunk Ridge.
Christopher C/TripAdvisor
A hike that's considered to be moderate, enter Sam's Point Preserve and make your way out to Ice Caves Road for a magnificent experience.
Kloeic/TripAdvisor
Only open to the public from April to October, the .6-mile long trail is one that isn't too strenuous but does involve a bit of scrambling and yes... icy conditions!
Phyllis10/TripAdvisor
Once you start the hike you'll get to go down unique staircases that take you into the cave.
Phyllis10/TripAdvisor

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Almost instantly you'll feel a refreshingly cold breeze making its way through the cave as you begin to explore more and feel like you're Lara Croft or Indiana Jones.
ScubaBear68/Flickr
As you make your way down the staircases you'll begin to notice small amounts of ice, but once you reach the heart of the caves something extraordinary happens.
ScubaBear68/Flickr
Even on the hottest of summer days, those exploring the Ice Caves of Sam's Point Preserve will find yes... a large amount of ice in here!
Steve Robbins/Flickr
Leaving you speechless and wanting more, we're anxiously awaiting the opening of the Ice Caves Trail while spring approaches.
ScubaBear68/Flickr
The hike is one that isn't terrible in length, but things can get a bit tricky for not-so-experienced hikers when you start having to climb up ladders along the trail, scramble or deal with making your way across ice patches safely. But don't let that deter you from checking out this trail, it all comes along with the excitement of this adventure!

On a good year, the Ice Caves will become open during mid to late April. But sometimes when we have cold and harsh winters, ice formations and small glaciers can form near the entrance of the trail — preventing it from opening right at the start of spring. This chilly hike is one that's quite relaxing and enjoyable to take during the summer. Plus, who isn't amazed by finding an amount of ice like this during the month of July?
To find out more information about Sam's Point Preserve and to see the official trail map, click here.

How to get here:
400 Sam’s Point Road
Cragsmoor, NY 12420

If you have your own pictures from Sam’s Point Preserve and the Ice Caves, be sure to share them with us in our comments. To discover more breathtaking scenery around New York, join our newly-created New York Nature Lovers group on Facebook!

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