Shoshone Ice Caves Continued

Shoshone Ice Caves are part of the Black Butte Crater lava field. Over 12,000 years ago, a shield volcano erupted.

Shield volcanoes form closer to the ground than other types of volcanoes. They are wider than they are tall. Their flatter shape resembles a shield on the ground, hence, the name.

The Black Butte Shield Volcano created a lava tube after an underground eruption. Inside the lava tube, cold air became trapped causing ice to form. Today, the lava tube contains both roofed and collapsed sections. Shoshone Ice Caves are a unique part of this complex system. The caves are approximately 1,700 feet long, 45 feet in height, and 50 feet wide.

Along the trail to the cave, visitors will notice bright yellow splotches of lichen in the rock outcroppings.

The path is approximately 3/4 of a mile one way. In addition, there are 80 stairs descending into the cave for a total of 160 stairs to complete the round trip. I recommend wearing sturdy shoes because some of the surfaces are uneven.

The temperature inside the cave was 28°F (-2°C) when I went. You'll need a coat or a jacket regardless of what the outside temperature is so plan accordingly.