Ice Cave & Bandera Volcano
“For a real experience in contrast, visit the Ice Cave and Bandera Volcano, "The Land of Fire and Ice," right on the Continental Divide. Walk through the twisted old-growth Juniper, Fir, and Ponderosa Pine trees; over the ancient lava trails; down into the cave; and into a dormant volcano. Inside the cave, the natural layers of ice glisten blue-green in the reflected rays of sunlight illuminating natural arctic algae. Take a walk around the Bandera Volcano and view one of the best examples of volcanic eruption in the country. Browse the historic Ice Caves Trading Post featuring ancient artifacts, geologic souvenirs, refreshing snacks, and warm New Mexican hospitality.” That was written and is posted on the Ice Cave & Bandera Volcano Website and I couldn’t have said it any better. It’s open March through November and at only $12 for adults, it’s absolutely worth it. The website also says it only takes about an hour to leisurely walk both sites and although I probably did it a little faster, it’s worth a nice stroll to take it all in.
The walk to the ice cave is nice and the cave itself is surprisingly cold at around 31° F year round.
The hike to the volcano is also easy and the view from the top lets you see the many other volcanoes that sit on the continental divide.