The forecast for this weekend is HOT and WINDY, so we have decided to postpone our outing to the Ice Caves until next weekend, June 19-20. At this point, the forecast for next weekend is 73 and partly sunny - much more pleasant for a 6 mile round trip hike. I've spoken directly with everyone that RSVP'd, but wanted to let you know in the hopes that you could join us next weekend!
We will camp at the Magpie Campground (sites $6/night, available on first come, first served basis) Friday night, then hike 3 miles from the campground to the Ice Caves Saturday morning and back. If a 6 mile hike sounds like too much for you, but you really want to join us, there are two options. There is a trailhead approach from the east, which is a short 15-20 minute walk to the Ice Caves. You could take a leisurely and lovely drive there after the hikers depart, and meet us at the caves. There is also the possibility that we could coordinate to leave a vehicle at the eastern trailhead, to drive at least some folks back to the campground after the 3 mile hike & some exploring of the caves.
Are you tired of hanging around your house? This is the PERFECT time for an outing to explore The Ice Caves in the Little Missouri National Grasslands! We can keep a safe distance and enjoy time together outside, in one of the most beautiful places in North Dakota.
The Ice Caves are located on the northern edge of Billings County along the drainage of Magpie Creek. They can be found along the southern slope of a ridge capped by 30 feet of fluvial channel sandstone in the Sentinel Butte Formation. Large blocks of sandstone have become detached from the ridge cap and toppled or slid down the slope. Many of these blocks have come to rest at various angles against other large blocks, which has created void spaces or chambers. Percolating water from melting snow and early spring rains drips into these well-insulated chambers where it freezes and remains frozen into late spring or summer. The largest chamber is approximately 30 feet long, 10 feet wide, and 9 feet high. (Adapted from "Caves in North Dakota.") This is going to be a phenomenal outing!
You will be on your own for food and personal gear, but we will share camaraderie and beautiful views. Bring plenty of water, adequate snacks/lunch for our hike, clothing layers for changing weather, binocs, cameras, nature guides, sun and insect protection, sturdy boots, and whatever else makes you happy! One item to be sure is on your list is a headlamp or flashlight for the Ice Caves.
To get to Magpie Campground, travel 1.5 miles north of Fairfield on Highway 85. Turn west on Road 712 (Magpie Camp sign), Travel 15.5 miles on gravel Road 712. The campground is located ¼ mile northeast off Road 712.
If you are joining us for the day hike ONLY, meet at the trailhead at 10AM Mountain Time. The marked trail head (Magpie, Maah Daah Hey Trail) is on Road 712, just before the turn-off for Magpie Campground. Do be sure to let me know that you are coming so that we don't depart without you!