“Cave Entry Shoshone Ice Cave Idaho” by amanderson2 is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
Nestled in the rugged landscape of Idaho, the Shoshone Ice Caves present an extraordinary blend of nature’s artistry and historical marvel. As one of the largest known lava ice caves in the state, this hidden gem offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the fascinating interplay between lava and ice under the guidance of trained professionals. Dive into a world of geological wonders and learn about the volcanic forces that sculpted this magnificent landform.
Professionally Guided Cave Tours
Embark on a journey through time with a professionally guided tour to the Shoshone Ice Caves. Your adventure begins with a gradual descent along a historic path, leading you 100 feet under a blanket of lava to the heart of the cave. Visitors are encouraged to capture the beauty of the ice cave with their cameras and are advised to wear light jackets to fend off the chill. The path, adorned with LED lighting, reveals stunning ice formations and volcanic wonders, ensuring a mesmerizing experience. However, it’s important to note that due to the number of stairs, access may be limited for those using wheelchairs or strollers.
More Than Just an Ice Cave
The Shoshone Ice Caves complex offers more than its icy underground marvel. A towering 30-foot-high, 10-ton statue of Chief Washakie greets visitors, paying homage to the revered chief of the Shoshone Tribe. Not far from this impressive sculpture, a large, green dinosaur affectionately known as Dino stands as a beloved local icon. Before leaving, make sure to visit the gift shop for unique souvenirs to remember your visit.
A Natural Refrigerator
One of the most captivating features of the Shoshone Ice Caves is its natural refrigeration system. Through the expansion and compression of airflow, similar to modern refrigeration principles, the cave maintains a living glacier amidst the lava desert. The ice block stretches approximately 1,000 feet in length and varies in depth from 8 to 30 feet. Inside the cave, temperatures remain a cool 23 to 33 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, offering a chilly respite from the heat outside.
Historical Significance
The Shoshone Ice Caves hold a rich history, having served as a vital source of ice for the town of Shoshone in the 1800s. However, in the 1940s, overdevelopment and an improperly placed access tunnel led to a significant melting of the ice. It wasn’t until the 1950s, when the Robinson Family acquired the cave that efforts to restore its integrity began. Thanks to Russell Robinson’s efforts in 1962, the cave’s natural beauty and ecological balance were revitalized, preserving this unique attraction for future generations.
Planning Your Visit
Shoshone Ice Caves operates seasonally, from May 1 through September 30, with off-season tours available upon request. Tours are conducted every hour, with extended hours and additional tours during peak season from Memorial Weekend to Labor Day Weekend. Before setting off on your adventure, it’s advisable to call or check online for the latest hours and any potential closures.
Shoshone Ice Caves – Unique Things to Do in Idaho
The Shoshone Ice Caves offer a rare glimpse into the natural wonders that lie beneath Idaho’s rugged terrain. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique adventure, the caves provide an educational and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages. Don’t miss the chance to explore this cool wonder of Idaho and immerse yourself in the fascinating story of lava and ice.
Quick Facts About the Shoshone Ice Caves
- The Shoshone Ice Caves represent a stunning natural phenomenon where icy conditions persist year-round beneath a rugged desert landscape, showcasing a fascinating interplay between fire and ice.
- Visitors can enjoy professionally guided tours that delve 100 feet under lava to explore ice formations and volcanic wonders, with tours accessible to most visitors except those who use wheelchairs or strollers due to stairs.
- The cave operates as a natural refrigerator, maintaining a year-round temperature of 23 to 33 degrees Fahrenheit due to the expansion and compression of airflow, creating a living glacier in the desert.
- In the 1800s, the ice from the Shoshone Ice Caves served as an essential source for the town of Shoshone, showcasing the cave’s historical significance.
- After a period of overdevelopment in the 1940s led to significant ice melt, the cave was acquired and restored by the Robinson Family in the 1950s, with Russell Robinson’s efforts in 1962 restoring its ecological balance.
- The Shoshone Ice Caves operate seasonally from May 1 through September 30, featuring not just the ice cave but also attractions like a 30-foot-high statue of Chief Washakie and a museum, making it one of the most unique things to do in Idaho for all ages.
Idaho’s Mammoth Cave
Planning a trip to Idaho? Don’t forget to put Idaho’s Mammoth Cave at the top of your list. As a beautiful place to visit in Idaho, you can explore a unique and awe-inspiring underground landscape at your own personal pace with our self-guided tours. In addition to the cave, there are two privately owned museums of natural history on-site, the Shoshone Bird Museum and the Richard Arthur Olsen Museum featuring a wealth of exhibits that has earned the nickname “The Smithsonian of the Desert,” making it an unforgettable stop for the whole family.
