Arnold Ice Cave

Useful Information

Location:	Near Bend. From Bend follow U.S. Highway 97 (Dalles California Hwy) south for 6 km, then turn left into China Hat Road. After 14 km at the left side.
Open:	no restrictions. Not accessible during winter. [2008]
Fee:	free. [2008]
Classification:	lava tube
Light:	bring torch
Dimension:
Guided tours:
Photography:
Accessibility:
Bibliography:
Address:	Deschutes National Forest, 1001 SW Emkay Drive, Bend, OR 97702, Tel: +1-541-383-5300.
As far as we know this information was accurate when it was published (see years in brackets), but may have changed since then. Please check rates and details directly with the companies in question if you need more recent info.

History

Description

Arnold Ice Cave is one of the numerous lava tubes of the area, but actually it is not possible to visit the tube, as it is filled with ice. During the early half of the 20th century the ice was quarried and used to supply central Oregon with ice. Remnants of stairs, which were built by the ice miners, are still visible. However, the ice refilled the once cleared cave entrance. That's what we call a regenerative resource!