The latest from the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore… Sounds like the mayhem could start-up again in northwest Wisconsin again this Saturday! PS If you are looking for some tips on what to do while visiting, be sure to check out my post from last year…
Apostle Islands Ice Caves Open for Winter Viewing
Bayfield, WI – For the third time this winter ice has formed along the Apostle Islands mainland ice caves. This time it has formed with enough thickness and extent to allow viewing of the ice caves along the mainland unit of Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. If conditions remain as they are or improve, the Ice Caves will open on Saturday, February 28th.
The Apostle Islands mainland ice caves feature some of the most spectacular cliffs and sea caves found in the Great Lakes. The features are different every year, as is the route to see them. This year there is very little snow and a lot of glare ice, making the route exceptionally slippery. Ice cleats (e.g., stabilicers) will be a necessity this year and ski poles are highly recommended.
Ice conditions can change rapidly, so it is important to keep safety in mind at all times. High wind speeds, such as those forecast for the near future, is a factor that can quickly change conditions and cause decreased visibility. Visitors must prepare for cold conditions and possible extreme wind chill. Beware of ice formations falling from the cliffs. Because of such slippery conditions, bringing your pet is not recommended. However, if you do, pets must be on a leash and under control at all times and pet owners must properly dispose of pet excrement in trash receptacles. Finally, don’t forget a camera to take home a tangible reminder of this spectacular landscape.
The sea caves can be reached from the end of Meyers Road, 18 miles west of Bayfield off State Highway 13. There is a $5/person/day fee for those 16 and older for visiting the caves, regardless of access point or method. Please bring cash. There will also be an annual pass available for $10/person. The annual pass is only available at Park Headquarters in Bayfield (415 Washington Ave.) during the Ice Cave Event.
For the most up-to-date information, visit the park’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/apostleislandsnationallakeshore or call the 24-hour “Apostle Islands Ice Line” at 715-779-3397 ext. 3. Information can also be found on the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore (www.nps.gov/apis), Bayfield County Tourism (www.icecaves.org), and Bayfield Chamber of Commerce (www.bayfield.org) websites.
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