Ice Caves

Rexburg Ice Caves, or more commonly known as the Civil Defense Caves from the cold war era. The Ice caves are large tubes formed when molten Lava flowed through a confined channel for many hours or days. This flow develops a solid crust forming a roof as the lava begins to cool. Once the source of lava stops the lava in the channel eventually flows out, leaving a tube behind. These caves are very common in eastern Idaho.

Directions:

1 . From the north Rexburg interchange of Highway 20 (north on 2^nd East, Walmart road), travel 16.6 miles north on the Salem highway, past the sand dunes heading towards Kilgore.(This will probably take about 30 minutes)

2. There will be a tall, but small sign indicating the Civil Defense Caves are five miles on the dirt road heading east. It is five miles to the caves over the dirt road.

3. The road is traversable by passenger cars but drive carefully (4-wheel drive vehicle is highly recommended). After a rain storm the road can be muddy. It is easy to get lost because the road meanders up, down, and around and is not visible very far ahead or behind. (drive slowly around 10-15 mph)

4. After about three miles there is a fork in the road. Take the left fork. The road continues in a north, north east direction for about a mile. The road terminates into an open area that serves as a parking area. There are usually several fire pits in the area.

5. The cave entrance is just to the north of the parking area.

The caves are a great destination to fighting boredom in the fall, and they are absolutely FREE! The entrance of the cave goes in two directions. The easiest section to maneuver through is the section that heads to the south east. After climbing over the huge rocks at the entrance the floor of the cave is generally flat. The caves are sheltered from the wind but may be cold depending on the time of year. Many students take glow in the dark objects and play hide and seek games. Outside of the caves there are fire pits that are great after climbing out of a dark, cold cave.

Supplies:

Before embarking on your ice caves trip you will need:

• 4-wheel drive vehicle
• A flashlight per person
• Warm jacket/coat
• Long pants
• Tennis Shoes
• First aid kit
• A box of matches/lighter
• Firewood (pallets work great also)
• Stuff for roasting (marshmallows, hotdogs, etc...)

Safety:

While in the caves watch your head and be aware of low hanging rocks. Also watch your step to avoid a sprained ankle. Not recommended if you are scared of the dark or claustrophobic. However, if you are one of those more adventurous go ahead and check out some of the more narrow parts, known as “Fat Man’s Misery”

The Ice caves are a great activity for just about any group of friends. It is highly suggested that you take someone with you that is familiar with the caves, in order to have a fun and safe adventure. Bring food and snacks with you, because the caves are in the middle of nowhere, also remember to use the restroom before leaving and bring toilet paper just in case!