NPS

A visitor completes the slippery decent into the cave

Crystal Ice Cave contains some of the most spectacular ice formations among Lava Beds’ many caves. Because of the sensitive nature of this cave's formations and air flow, it is open to park visitors on small ranger-guided tours only during winter months.

Tours for no more than 6 visitors are offered every Saturday at 1:00 p.m. from December through March and last 3 to 3.5 hours. Reservations for these tours can be made up to three weeks in advance. Call or visit the Visitor Center at 530-667-8113 between 8:30 am and 5:00 pm for more information or to make tour reservations.

This is a strenuous excursion for people 12 years and older in good physical condition. Tour participants descend and ascend a sloped ice floor with the aid of a rope, crawl through holes, and negotiate boulder-strewn floors while avoiding fragile formations. Helmets, gloves, sturdy shoes and warm layered clothing are required. Headlamps and kneepads are highly recommended.