Snowshoe to the Eben Ice Caves

Alison Silk from Marquette and Kirsten Borgstrom from Lansing snowshoe to the Eben Ice Caves - photo by Michael Dwyer

Alison Silk from Marquette and Kirsten Borgstrom from Lansing snowshoe to the Eben Ice Caves – photo by Michael Dwyer

Snowshoe to the Eben Ice Caves

By Michael Dwyer

This winter has provided Michigan a plentiful amount of snow to keep enthusiasts eager to engage the outdoors. While cold weather and weekend snowstorms slow down the tourist action, those looking to brave the weather will find pure Michigan enjoyment all around them. A trip to the Upper Peninsula before the white stuff melts may be just the thing one needs.

The Eben Ice Caves in the Rock River Wilderness area of the Hiawatha National Forest is a challenge to find, but worth the adventure. More officially known as the Rock River Canyon Ice Caves, it is near Eben Junction between Marquette and Munising.

The Trek In

Look for the Rock River Canyon Ice Caves sign - photo by Michael Dwyer

Look for the Rock River Canyon Ice Caves sign – photo by Michael Dwyer

From the parking lot, follow the tracks due east across the open land to the tree line. On a weekend, the 30-car parking lot is full with space along the bend of the road for overflow. Nearly 300 people in a day may hike, snowshoe or cross-county ski to the caves. Because of the terrain, snowshoes offer the best means to travel the mile or so to get there. If it is a weekday with fresh snow, it will be more of a challenge to find.

Once across the open land, follow the path through the trees to the Rock River Canyon Ice Cave sign. The path there will take you to the river, but try to follow the less obvious path that forks to the right BEFORE going all the way down to the river. If you are following the correct path, the sandstone ledge will soon be insight.

The Ice Caves Rock

Formed by a frozen waterfall over the sandstone surface, it creates curtains of ice that have a yellow, brown and green tint. Stunning from the outside view – pure magic from behind the curtain – visitors will soon understand how it gets its name.

Michael Dwyer is behind the ice curtain at the Eben Ice Caves in Michigan's UP - photo by Kirsten Borgstrom

Michael Dwyer is behind the ice curtain at the Eben Ice Caves in Michigan’s UP – photo by Kirsten Borgstrom

On a busy day, ice climbers will be tackling the 60-foot tall ice wall with ropes and other ice climbing gear. However, for a more peaceful visit with a sense of being in the middle of nowhere, go during the morning hours of a weekday. On the weekends, a concession stand is set up in the parking lot. Portable toilets are also available there.

Driving Directions

From US 41 (about 12 miles south of Marquette), drive east on M 94 towards Chatham for 12 miles to Eben Junction. Travel north on Eben Road to Frey Road approximately 1 1/2 miles and make a right hand turn onto Frey Road. Travel approximately a half mile east on Frey Road until you come to a curve. The parking lot, concession stand, and portable toilets are at curve to the east.

Nearby Food

The Rock River Cafe makes for a good stop for lunch or dinner while visiting the Eben Ice Caves - photo by Michael Dwyer

The Rock River Cafe makes for a good stop for lunch or dinner while visiting the Eben Ice Caves – photo by Michael Dwyer

The Rock River Café at the corner of M 94 (W. Munising St.) and M 67 (Rock River Road) offers “A fresh expression of local cuisine” which includes local natural beef, local produce and Finnish menu selections. Open for lunch and dinner, closed Mondays.

For Area Information

Marquette County Convention & Visitors Bureau

800-544-4321

Snowshoe Rentals in Marquette

Down Wind Sports

906-226-7112

Want More Soft Adventure in Marquette County, click HERE

About Michael Dwyer

Michael Dwyer is a freelance content provider. Michael writes about happenings in the Rochester area, travels across Michigan and destinations around the world. Contact him at michael@rochestermedia.com.

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