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Ice Cave Hill Park: A Cool Iowa Adventure

Explore a rare natural ice cave and scenic trails at Ice Cave Hill Park in Decorah, Iowa. A unique Midwest adventure!

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Ice Cave Hill Park in Decorah, Iowa, is a unique natural attraction featuring a rare ice cave, where ice formations can persist well into summer. Visitors can enjoy a scenic half-mile walk to the cave entrance and explore the surrounding wooded trails.

A brief summary to Ice Cave Hill Park

  • Monday 7 am-11 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-11 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-11 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-11 pm
  • Friday 7 am-11 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-11 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-11 pm

Local tips

  • Bring a flashlight to explore the cave entrance, as natural light is limited.
  • Wear sturdy shoes for the half-mile walk to the cave and for exploring the trails.
  • Visit in late spring or early summer to see the ice formations in their full glory.
  • Pack water and snacks, as there are no facilities on site.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the parking lot on Ice Cave Road, the ice cave entrance is about a half-mile walk along the paved road. The road is closed to vehicle traffic, making for a peaceful walk. Follow the paved road east towards the cave entrance. The trail is relatively flat and easy to navigate. There are no fees associated with walking to the cave.

  • Taxi

    From downtown Decorah, a taxi ride to Ice Cave Hill Park takes approximately 10 minutes. Taxi services like Hometown Taxi operate in Decorah. Expect to pay around $10-$15 for a one-way trip, but costs may vary. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Once at the park entrance, follow the paved road to the cave.

  • Public Transport

    EARL Public Transit provides demand-response transportation in Decorah and Winneshiek County. Contact NEICAC Transit to schedule a ride to Ice Cave Hill Park. Fares vary depending on distance and location. Call 866-382-4259 to schedule a ride. From the park entrance, follow the paved road to the cave.

Unlock the Best of Ice Cave Hill Park

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Discover more about Ice Cave Hill Park

Ice Cave Hill Park, near Dunning Springs in Decorah, Iowa, offers a unique outdoor experience centered around a fascinating natural ice cave. This geological gem is a rare find in the Midwest, attracting those interested in light hiking and natural history. The park's highlight is the ice cave entrance, where temperatures remain cooler than the surroundings due to natural airflow and the cave's structure. Ice formations are often visible well into summer. While rockfall limits how far visitors can venture inside, the site remains special. The cave was commercially shown from 1929 until 1941 at a cost of 10 cents, or 25 cents for a guided tour. The half-mile walk to the cave entrance follows a paved road closed to vehicles due to erosion. The walk is relatively easy, though it can feel long for young children or those unfamiliar with hiking, especially since the road offers limited shade. The park stands out regionally due to its rare ice cave occurrence in Iowa's landscape. History buffs might appreciate the nearby historic stairs. Visitors value Ice Cave Hill Park for its cool respite on warm days and the subtle adventure of exploring the cave entrance and surrounding woods. Seasonal changes greatly affect the experience; spring and early summer showcase the ice, while fall provides colorful foliage along the walking routes.

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