Apostle Islands Prepares For Opening Of Ice Caves

The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is gearing up for the Lake Superior ice caves.

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Superintendent Bob Krumenaker said staff are measuring the ice, which is pretty uneven right now.

“There are holes in the ice and there are places as of yesterday our rangers put their feet through,” he said. “It’s not safe enough yet.”

Krumenaker said the ice caves may open as soon as the next couple weeks. But, he says that would still be a bit early.

“Last year’s opening, Jan. 15, was extraordinarily early. Most years that the ice caves have been open it’s not been until middle to late February,” he said.

In the meantime, Krumenaker said they’re organizing staff and parking to be ready if the ice caves open. He said high winds broke up the ice two years ago, preventing access.

Visitors who are 16 and older are now required to pay a $5 fee to see the ice caves.