Exploring The Eben Ice Caves and Munising | Michigan
What are the Eben Ice Caves?
The Eben Ice Caves are a must-see frozen experience in Michigan. During the early winter, as snow melts, it falls over the edge of a cave in Hiawatha National Forest and freezes. Over the course of a month or so, the ice caves are formed. Trekkers from all over drive out to see this amazing winter formation!
If you want to see the caves during their peak, then you may want to plan for a February trip. However, we went towards the end of winter and had the whole park/trail to ourselves. If you want updates on current conditions, be sure to follow the Eben Ice Caves Facebook page.
Related post: Seeing The Stunning Blue Ice In Mackinaw City
The Eben Ice Caves have been on my winter bucket list for the past few years now and we finally checked off that box this past winter! The caves are about 20 miles southwest of Munising, Michigan, off of Highway M94 and in the Hiawatha National Forest. Once you reach Eben Road at Eben Junction, you can follow the yellow signs marked “Ice Caves.”
We went closer to the end of the winter season, so we had the park and caves to ourselves. However, if you go during their prime time, vehicles often have to park along the road. There will be a small plowed area for parking, with a row of Porta Pottys and a snack bar open on the weekends. This is private property, so be sure to show your support by purchasing some snacks and respecting the property and nature.
It is also highly recommended to wear ice cleats. They aren’t necessary, but they will help out IMMENSELY.
April 2020
February 2022
Before the Ice Caves, we had hoped to hike some trials in Munising only for our hopes to be smashed with snow. The roads were closed to seasonal traffic only and the Jeep was not equipped for the snow covered roads. But, we did get to see a few light houses in town and the Munising Falls. Hopefully we can come back to hike the trails when there isn’t so much snow!
Where To Stay
We Stayed at the Chocolay River Cabin through Airbnb. The cabin was super cute, rustic, and had all the amenities we needed for a weekend get-a-way. There was almost no cell reception, so it was perfect for an unplugged weekend! If you want $55 off your first trip, you can use my link here: Airbnb
You can read more about our cozy stay at the Chocolay River Cabin in my Winter Retreat blog post!
