Never underestimate just how amazing and diverse the Idaho landscape is. After all, you never know what kind of treasures you’ll find while exploring the Gem State! For example, a lot of people don’t realize that there is a legitimate frozen ice cave hiding out in the high desert of southern Idaho. Maintaining a freezing cold temperature even during the hottest days of summer, a visit to this ice cave is a surreal experience that’s bound to leave an impression. This is the type of place you have to see to fully believe, so plan a visit soon—just don’t forget a coat.
Hiding out in the vast and remote desert of southern Idaho is a place called the Shoshone Ice Cave. At first glance, it may look like a typical tourist trap, but dig a little deeper and you’ll discover that this place is hiding one of the state’s most bizarre natural wonders.
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The cave is located near the tiny town of Shoshone. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the wacky sight of a large, bright green dinosaur accompanied by a few small buildings. Don’t be fooled by the kitschy decor, this cave is SO worth the visit.
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Tours are given daily throughout the summer season, and by appointment only during the off season. Lasting approximately 45 minutes to an hour, the 3/4-mile walking tour is professionally guided and photography is highly encouraged.
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Be advised that the tour contains around 160 total stairs and the bridge that takes you through the cave itself is quite narrow. For this reason, sturdy shoes are definitely recommended and it is unfortunately not wheelchair or stroller friendly.
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You’ll take the stairs 100-feet underground into the icy depths of the cave. At around 1,700-feet-long and 50-feet-wide, the cave is definitely a good size. However, it’s the ice block which takes up the entire floor of the cave that will truly leave you in awe
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The ice block is around 1,000-feet-long and can range from 8 to 30-feet in thickness. Most amazingly, it remains in a frozen state all year long. Even during the summertime, the cave maintains a temperature between 23 to 33 degrees.
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During the tour, you’ll learn all about the cultural history of this fascinating cave. Afterward, you can peruse the tiny museum and gift shop that are also located on-site. This roadside attraction is kitsch at its core, but it’s also one of the most amazing natural wonders that Idaho has to offer.
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Learn more about the Shoshone Ice Cave at their website here. Tours are given daily until 5:00 p.m. Address: 1561 State Hwy 75, Shoshone, ID 83352
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Have you been to Idaho’s frozen ice cave? You’d never guess that this freezing cold cave has been hiding out in the high desert this entire time!
Nicoli Bench/Google
Kurt Yunker/Google
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Shelleylyn/Flickr
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