BAYFIELD — The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is expected to open the ice caves near Meyers Beach for visitation beginning on Feb. 16, 2026, if current ice conditions remain stable.
It will be the first time the ice caves have been open since 2015.
The ice caves remain closed until Feb. 16. The Meyers Beach parking lot is currently closed to vehicle traffic and parking. Wisconsin DOT has prohibited parking on Hwy 13. Beginning Feb 16, visitor access is via county-run shuttles.
This winter event occurs only when conditions meet minimum safety thresholds. Park officials stress that public safety is the highest priority and conditions can change rapidly. Visitor access may close with little notice if conditions deteriorate.
For Official Updates:
NPS Website: https://go.nps.gov/IceCaves
Ice Line: (715) 779-3398 x3
Official Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/apostleislandsnps
Trip Planning:
Visiting the Apostle Islands ice caves is a stunning but challenging winter adventure. Be ready for a 2–6 mile round trip hike on uneven lake ice with no shelter, water, and limited cell service. Dress for harsh winter conditions. Standing water on top of the ice is possible. No on-site parking is available at Meyers Beach—visitors must shuttle from off-site locations to the trailhead. A $5 per person/day fee (ages 16+; under 16 free) must be paid online. Additional fees apply for off-site parking and shuttles. Parking and shuttle fees are separate from the NPS Ice Caves event fee and are not charged by the National Park Service.
Conditions can change quickly. Closures may happen anytime for safety. Always check official updates before you travel: go.nps.gov/IceCaves, call the ice line at (715) 779-3398 x3, or visit facebook.com/apostleislandsnps
