You wouldn’t expect to find ice in the middle of a prairie spring, but welcome to North Dakota’s Ice Caves—nature’s walk-in freezer tucked away southeast of Grassy Butte. It’s a short hike there in the North Dakota badlands, and, according to the person who wrote the caption for the video below, these crevices aren’t true caves and don’t always hold ice year-round, but they do deliver some seriously refreshing air conditioning on those hot days. Plus, the towering sandstone slabs make for a pretty epic natural jungle gym—perfect for climbing, exploring, and letting off steam (or cooling it down). Plus, they’re only about an hour and a half from Wibaux, Montana, making it an easy day trip.
Getting There: A Choose-Your-Own-Adventure Drive
From Grassy Butte, head north on US 85, then west onto Beicegel Creek Road (a.k.a. McKenzie County Road 50). After 6.5 miles, hang a left on Scairt Woman Road (yep, that’s really what it’s called) and ignore Forest Service Road 806 like it’s your ex’s text. Stick with Scairt Woman as it curves and becomes Forest Service Road 713. Go a mile south and you’ll hit the trailhead—just half a mile west of 713. Pro tip: Don’t attempt this route after rain unless you enjoy getting stuck in mud and rethinking your life choices.
If you’re interested in watching a video with them, check this out…
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