If you are in the Grants area, be sure to stop by and see this natural wonder in the land of Fire and Ice. This is the ice part. Volcanoes everywhere in the area testify to the fire. Those volcanoes also created this ice cave that remains frozen year round. It's on private property and the owners are kind enough to open it up to tourists and provide information and guidance. There's a nice gift shop at the entrance, and then a short hike in the desert to the entrance to the cave. It's a steep stairway down to the cave, a frozen green mass that stands in sharp contrast to the surrounding desert/volcanic landscape. It's a steep climb back up too—be aware of that for anyone with physical issues with the climb.Definitely worth seeing!
Cool place to visit! Lots of walking if you want to stretch your legs-uphill (40 min) to see the remains of the volcano, downhill (10 min) to the Ice Cave-and back. Not particularly wheelchair friendly at this rustic location. There's also a fascinating family-owned Trading Post displaying ancient pottery (among other items, including historic family photos) found at the entrance to the Ice Cave years ago. The scenery is quite striking here. You can use an informative trail guide to identify numbered spots along the volcano trail pointing out areas of interest. The volcano is now collapsed, but lava tubes can still be seen. Actually there's lots of lava in this area. While the downhill trail to the Ice Cave isn't all that steep, there is a steep wooden staircase leading to a landing in front of the Ice Cave. Unless you go during cold weather, you won't need additional clothing as you can't go inside the cave, only view the ice floor and cave ceiling.
We were told of this attraction three years ago and finally made the trip. We were not disappointed. The hike to the volcano and ice cave were delightful with well kept trails and signage. This attraction is well worth the trip south of I-40 with excellent signs to the site.
Great place. Wonderful adventure for all ages. People that rated this low need more education. The beauty of this area is excellent and I am very glad we made the trip.
The remains of a volcano crater, as well as a walk through an area of lava flow, coupled with a 'real' ice-cave was a great way to spend an afternoon in hot, sunny New Mexico. Added to the experience was the chance to see so many hummingbirds! (Look out for the feeders next to the cafe/office/restrooms)
Yes,it's pricey. Touristy. But, if you have never seen this scenery, it's worth it. We're from Florida. The time spent here with 2 kids running around and enjoying things they never experienced was ell worth it. Be a tourist, take this and realize it's not the money, it's the time well spent with family and nature. Money can't buy this. The shop is for your memories when you get back. Spend the money. The staff were nice and they gave us any and all info re: questions and such.
We visited late winter and I think it was a big mistake. I can imagine in summer a frozen body of water in a cave would be unusual but in winter ... It was just a cave that had some water in the bottom that had frozen. Pretty disappointed, we didn't bother looking at the crater.
We stopped at this place several years ago, but our son was young then and did not remember it well, so we stopped for another visit. The walk up to the volcano is about half a mile, much of it up a slight uphill grade, but it is not bad. The main thing to watch are the small volcanic rocks that line the path up; it is easier to walk on the dirt. Th evolcano is mostly dirt now, but the way it blasted out can still be seen. It is a shorter path to the ice cave and mostly level; there is quite a flight of stairs down to the cave, but there are landings with seats, and the stairs are very sturdy. As you are descending the steps, you can feel it getting colder and colder--it is very interesting. This place is privately owned, and it has been kept very nicely; however, there are only picnic tables; no place to buy a meal. We would highly recommend this place.
Great place to see. Standing on the edge of a volcano. WOW. and then, in the middle of this lave field, in the desert, is an ICE CAVE. It is cold in there.Good place to cool off. Have to see to believe!!
I read about this attraction while researching things to do on I40! We stopped and really enjoyed our time there..My husband was a little hesitant when he realized we had quite a hike to go view the volcano, but it really was not that bad. Once you reach the top it is a fantastic view. We also enjoyed the view of the ice cave. Very interesting. We basically had the place to ourselves! Definitely worth the stop !