Niter Ice Cave is a hidden underground wonder near in Grace, Idaho. Perfect for curious families and adventurers where you can walk in the footsteps of early pioneers and Native Americans. Feel the immediate, refreshing drop in temperature the moment you descend into the cavern.
- Volcanic and Geological Origins: The Snake River Plains volcanic vent released a massive basalt lava flow approximately 500,000 years ago to form this natural lava tube.
- Indigenous and Pioneer Food Storage: Native Americans and early Mormon settlers used the cave’s naturally cold climate for food storage.
- Frontier History: Learn the history of original homesteader John A. Dalton and his family, who relied on the cave as a strategic defensive refuge during periods of high tension and conflict.
- Cave Dimensions: The subterranean lava conduit stretches 1,800 feet deep, measuring 24 feet wide by 14 feet high.
- Cave Safety: Use the established pathways which transition from a dirt trail with handrails to a narrow wooden boardwalk. The path may have slippery mud.
- Preparation: Carrying a flashlight or use your mobile phone flashlight to see the inside of the dark cave.
- Signage: Interpretative Sign tells the History and Geological information.
To get to there from SH 34, turn right (east) onto Ice Cave Road and proceed 0.15 mile to the pull off on the left (north) side of the road above the Ice Cave Entrance. View a 360 panorama photo of the inside of the cave by Don Bain.
