Eben Ice Caves and Canyon Falls & Gorge

During the summer, the rocky formations in the Rock River Wilderness portion of the Hiawatha National Forest don't really look like a whole lot...sort of like a dried up waterfall. Not very impressive. But come winter, they're transformed into stunning ice caves made of enormous 60-foot icicles dripping down the rocks. Melting snow runs over the edge of the small cliff and freezes, forming the caves, which are best visited starting in late December. The Eben Ice Caves are pretty easy to get to-- if you're up for a little hike. It's about 3/4 of a mile from the parking lot to the caves, and while most of it is across flat land, there are some hilly parts; while not totally necessary, ice cleats really help to make sure you don't biff it on the trail. Trust us. They'll also help you better explore inside the caves, since everything is frozen over. If you've got the gear, you can even climb right up the curtain of ice. And, on the way back, if the workout from the hike isn't keeping your warm enough, you can defrost further with a hot drink from the concession stand along the trail-- it's the perfect way to treat yourself after a day in the cold. Plus, they've got a bathroom (since we all know that no matter how prepared you think you are, the second you get bundled up in snow gear, most people immediately get the urge to pee). It's the perfect reward for freezing your butt off in the wintery wonderland. - Roadtrippers