It should come as no surprise to most people that Maine winters include a lot of snow, wind, and ice. For the most part, we expect to see that ice during a major winter storm or another dramatic weather event. But, there’s one place in the Pine Tree State that’s covered in ice the entire year! It’s a bit off the beaten path, but so worth a visit for those who love the unique natural areas in Maine. Get ready for a trip to the Desbconeag Ice Caves in Maine!

You’ll find the unique Debsconeag Ice Caves in the Debsconeag Lakes Wilderness Area in Millinocket.
Sara MacKenzie / Google
Its name means "carrying place" in the language of the native people who originally inhabited the area. These people carried their canoes around the harsh rivers and waterfalls here in order to navigate the region.
This incredible Maine ice cave was formed when huge glaciers pushed boulders together during the ice age.
chadfennell / Flickr
In order to explore the area, you’ll need to drive a bit off-the-beaten-path and then embark on a hike. But, don’t worry! The hike is fairly easy to follow, and so worth it to get to this unique ice cave in Maine.
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
You’ll start the journey by driving down the Golden Road Scenic Byway for about 20 miles until you reach Abol Bridge.
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
At the bridge, head left and drive for about 3 miles. Here you’ll take another left towards the parking area.
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
Follow the blue blazes on the trail and you’ll know you’re heading in the right direction.
Untamed Mainer / YouTube

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Go about halfway down the trail and you’ll hit another path with a nearby boulder and a blue blaze. You’re on the right track!
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
Here, make a left and continue keeping an eye out for the blue blazes. You’ll know you’re going the right direction if you find yourself heading back into the forest.
The ice cave has a runged ladder allowing you to descend inside.
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
This time of year during the winter, the rungs will probably be frozen over.

But, during the spring and summer they should be clear for the climbing! It’s best to wear ice cleats when you visit.
No matter the time of year, you’ll feel the cold as soon as you enter. And, during the summer, the ice covering the walls feels totally surreal!
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
The largest room is the first you’ll come to and there’s plenty of room to stand up and move around.
Untamed Mainer / YouTube
You can continue to explore by finding some smaller areas that will require some climbing over rocks, which is fun for the more adventurous!
harquail / Flickr
Once you’re done exploring, you’ll turn around and head back the same way you came.
mylilangel58 / Flickr
canadianveggie / Flickr

For more about this beautiful cave, check out this video showing an actual visit:

These ice caves in Maine aren’t the only icy wonder here in Vacationland. Check out this ice bar, which isn’t entirely naturally occurring (okay, it’s not at all naturally occurring) but is very cool!

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More to Explore

Caves In Maine

Meghan Byers | December 13, 2023

Are there more caves you can explore in Maine?

There are many caves you can explore in Maine. Some of the best caves in Maine are:

  • Devil’s Den in Andover
  • Moose Cave, located within Grafton Notch State Park, in Newry
  • Thunder Hole, in Acadia National Park (note that you can’t explore this cave, but you can listen to the thunderous sound for which it gets its name)
  • Anemone Cave, also in Acadia National Park (note that this cave is very difficult to enter, and must be entered at low tide – and you should plan to be out before the tide comes back in)
  • Small caves along Gorham Mountain Trail in Acadia National Park
  • The Enchanted Cave in Jackman, Maine

 

Are there any other ice caves in Maine?

There are two other notable examples of ice caves in Maine:

  • The Allagash Ice Caves: Located in the Allagash Wilderness Waterway, on the southern shore of Allagash Lake. These are extensive caves, but not many explore them fully because they are wet, cold, and not for the claustrophobic.
  • The Debouille Caves: Located in the Deboullie Public Reserved Lands, and usually covered with ice unless it is very hot in the summertime.

 

What is the most unique geological feature found in Maine?

One of the most unique geological features found in Maine is Gulf Hagas, known as the “Grand Canyon of Maine.” Located in Katahdin Ironworks State Park, this gorge spans about three miles. It has steep slate walls and some of the best waterfalls to be found in the entire state of Maine. The most notable waterfalls you can find at Gulf Hagas are:

  • Stair Falls
  • Buttermilk Falls
  • Billings Falls
  • Screw Auger Falls

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Featured Addresses
Debsconeag Lakes Wilderness Area, Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Millinocket, ME 04462, USA