A New Brunswick Winter Hike: The Midland Ice Caves

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Midland Ice Caves

It’s been a long, cold Canadian winter, and we’ve run out of decent shows to stream on Netflix, so we’ve started to look for local adventures.

I kid.

As a Canadian, I learned long ago to embrace the winter months and find fun winter activities to indulge in. I would even be so bold to say that I look forward each year to skating, snow days, hot chocolate and beautiful winter photography. So imagine my surprise when I discovered the Midland Ice Caves, a local winter activity that I had never had the pleasure of experiencing!

I was shocked to learn of this beautiful hike through the picturesque New Brunswick woods leading to an amazing frozen phenomenon. We knew we had to check it out. So, we seized a mild Sunday afternoon as the perfect time to get out and get some fresh air. We are so glad we did!

The Hike

I would class this hike as moderate intensity, although I must say on this particular Sunday we saw people of all fitness levels and ages attempting it. The trail begins as a long hike through a hilly field, leading to a wide, steep incline going into the woods. Take your time if you struggle with difficult climbs. Below is a photo from our walk back to the roadside.

Pro tip: If you’ve got kids, let them bring their sleds. It is the best way down this hill fast!

Climbing the hill to the Midland Ice Caves, a favourite New Brunswick winter hike.

Once you reach the top of the hill, the walk through the woods is flat, well maintained, and a beautiful winter scene. We took our time strolling along, listening to excited kids as they passed on their way back from the caves.

Meet Ellie, our Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. She had an amazing day hiking here. Did I mention this hike is dog friendly? You are requested to keep your dog leashed.

Midland Ice Caves hikers in the snow.
Midland Ice Caves hikers. Dogs welcome!
A snowy scene on the hiking trail.

The Ice Caves

When you reach the ice caves, the view from above is amazing. If you want to climb down into the caves, the trails are steep and can be slick. Take your time and test the ground for icy spots. Make use of the ropes set up along the trail.

View from atop the Midland Ice Caves. A great photo opportunity!

From the bottom, you can climb up into the caves, behind the ice…

Ice climbing at Midland Ice Caves
Dog and hiker climbing into the caves.
Inside the Midland Ice Caves

Or just view the dripping icicles from the outside.

Icicles outside the Midland Ice Caves.

In total, our hike to the ice caves took only 1 hour and 30 minutes. However, we went along at a pretty good pace. Give yourself 2 hours at least to spend on this adventure.

I hope you enjoy this local hike to the Midland Ice Caves as much as we did! If you’re looking for another amazing winter activity, check out Quebec’s Hôtel de Glace!

Bye for now,

Hill XO

Need directions? Here’s the route from Highway 1 using Google Maps.

Map to the Midland Ice Caves.

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