Shoshone Ice Caves
Shoshone, ID, temporarily closed
40°F
inside, all year
Minnetonka Cave
St. Charles Canyon, ID
$8
adult ticket
A Forest Service cave in St. Charles Canyon northwest of Bear Lake, with half a mile of passages through nine rooms at 40°F, open from around Memorial Day.
The story
By a long-repeated account, Edward Arnell noticed cool air coming from a crevice while hunting near St. Charles Canyon around 1906 or 1907 and came back with friends to explore. First called Porcupine Cave, it was opened up by Depression-era work crews in the 1930s, who enlarged the entrance and built steps, and public tours were advertised by 1938. The U.S. Forest Service took over management in 1964.
- Found
- Around 1906–1907
History source: Deseret News.
Tickets and timing
- Adults
- $8 (16+)
- Kids
- $6 (ages 6–15), free under 5
- Hours
- From around Memorial Day weekend, weather permitting: daily 10am–5:30pm, tours every half hour.
- Booking
- Scenic Canyons, 435-245-4422.
Getting around underground
- The walk
- Half a mile of passages through nine rooms.
Dogs, weather and what to wear
- Temperature
- 40°F year-round
Getting there
Minnetonka Cave is in or near St. Charles Canyon, ID.
- Salt Lake Cityabout 94 miles
Distances are straight-line from each city center.
Before you go
- Golden Access pass holders pay $4.
Questions people ask
How cold is it inside Minnetonka Cave?
40°F year-round.
Do you need to book Minnetonka Cave in advance?
Scenic Canyons, 435-245-4422.
When was Minnetonka Cave discovered?
Around 1906–1907, according to the cave's own history.
Checked on 2026-10-22 against fs.usda.gov (Minnetonka Cave page). Prices and hours change, so confirm on the official site before you drive out.