Winter in the Upper Peninsula isn’t complete without a trip to the dramatic Eben Ice Caves
The Eben Ice Caves need to be on everyone’s list when visiting the Upper Peninsula of Michigan in the Winter. Follow this guide to fully understand why they are a can’t miss stop when exploring the Upper Peninsula in the Winter!
The Eben Ice caves are one of Michigan’s top winter attractions that should be experienced by all Winter visitors. When the temperatures start to drop, the formation of majestic ice caves begin.
Current conditions at the ice caves are impressive. As the winter gets colder we will see a lot more ice but as of now, the formations are definitely worth venturing too especially being only 30 minutes from Marquette
The Eben Ice Caves are located in Eben, Michigan, about 30 minutes south east of Marquette.
The ice caves are apart of the Hiawatha National Forest and are a must visit spot during winter. Here are the Directions from Marquette to the Ice Caves:
The Eben Ice Caves trailhead starts adjacent to the parking lot. There is a giant sign that you can’t miss that will lead you right onto the trail.
The hike to the caves is moderate. The beginning part of the trail is flat through open farm fields and eventually slopes down as you meander through a gorgeous forest of sprawling trees. You will eventually find your way to a river that isn’t clearly marked but stay right. Once you see a trail shortly after follow it up to the caves. The climb is somewhat steep but nothing drastic.
The hardest part of the hike is finding the right path up to the caves. Although it’s not very challenging, you can easily get of track if there’s snowfall or no prior footprints up the path. Luckily the paths are all pretty close and if you do miss them you won’t be lost long.
The Eben Ive Caves hike should take you about 25 minutes each way and is around 2 miles roundtrip. If you need trail map for the Eben Ice Caves, head over to alltrails
If you feel like you are lost or going off trail don’t worry because there are different ways to get to the caves.
There is also a path that takes you ABOVE the caves if you are interested in taking in the perspective from above. That trail is about at the halfway mark and if you aren’t looking for it/fresh snow fall, you will most likely pass it by.
You definitely should bring some type of winter traction device for your boots. Whether it be yaktrax, crampons, or micro spikes, you will be glad you brought them.
If you’re going to go inside the caves (as EVERYONE SHOULD) you will need them to enjoy and not slip on your face
Top UP Winter Experiences: 🥶 Best Ice Climbing in Munising
These Ice caves are now one of my favorite winter destinations in Michigan. Only being 30 minutes from Marquette, make this Upper Peninsula tourist destination an easy Michigan Day trip. For more things to do near these amazing Michigan Ice Caves, check out my guides below!
🎿 Michigan Ski Resorts: Where to find Powder in Michigan
🪨 Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in the Winter
Get Lucky and See the Northern Lights in the Upper Peninsula