Ice Caves Loop

The Ice Caves Loop trail is in the Big Snowy Mountains Wilderness Study Area near Lewistown, Montana. The trail is rated difficult because of the elevation climb, the distance, and the difficult terrain. Locals and tourists love this trail because it features the stunning Crystal Lake and the popular Ice Cave.

Finding the cave can be difficult if you don't know the trail. After the first couple miles, the trail comes to an unmarked fork. Take the left trail to trail #490. The trail will follow a line of small piles of rock along an open ridge for two miles before reaching the Ice Cave.

The initial five miles of the hike are the hardest. The climb is steep, and the trail is covered in loose rocks and tree roots. Watch your step!

You might also find the trail is still hard to navigate in June because of the snow. The best time to see this area is in July and August. AND don't worry, you won't miss the ice cave if you wait.

The Ice Cave is a limestone rock formation that remains cold enough to contain ice ALL YEAR ROUND. There is consistent water flow in the cave, which freezes on the ground and makes it incredibly icy and slippery.

The views from the top are stunning. On a clear day, you can see the amazing Grand Teton Mountain Range.

After experiencing the ice cave, hikers can return to the trailhead the way they came or turn left and follow the Grandview Trail (7 miles to complete the loop). Finishing the loop is the best way to experience Crystal Lake.

Heads-up, the last mile of the loop can get hidden in tall grass, and there is nowhere to fill up your water on the trail to bring plenty. Once at the campground, there are bathrooms and a water pump.