Devil's Icebox
Explore the cool depths of Devil's Icebox cave and marvel at unique rock formations in Rockbridge State Forest.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the cave's natural chill
Devil's Icebox
Best Time
Experience the cave's natural chill
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the cool depths of Devil's Icebox cave and marvel at unique rock formations in Rockbridge State Forest.
"A must-see! So beautiful and well-kept, with caves that are fun to walk into and explore."
🔦 Bring Multiple Lights
Essential for exploring the cave's depths. A headlamp and a backup flashlight are recommended.
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
The cave floor can be wet and slippery. Water shoes offer better grip and protection.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Devil's Icebox Cave
Rockbridge State Forest
A naturally cool cave with a dramatic temperature drop, perfect for exploring on hot days.
The Pinnacles
Rockbridge State Forest
Unique rock formations that create a dramatic, almost otherworldly landscape.
Rock Bridge
Rockbridge State Forest
A stunning natural arch, often mistaken for the main cave entrance in photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Cave Access
Best Time for a Cool Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🔦 Bring Multiple Lights
Essential for exploring the cave's depths. A headlamp and a backup flashlight are recommended.
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
The cave floor can be wet and slippery. Water shoes offer better grip and protection.
⚠️ Check Cave Access
Deeper cave exploration may require permits. Always check with the DNR beforehand.
🚶♀️ Be Ready for Stairs
Many trails involve stairs, offering a good calf workout with scenic views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🔦 Bring Multiple Lights
Essential for exploring the cave's depths. A headlamp and a backup flashlight are recommended.
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
The cave floor can be wet and slippery. Water shoes offer better grip and protection.
⚠️ Check Cave Access
Deeper cave exploration may require permits. Always check with the DNR beforehand.
🚶♀️ Be Ready for Stairs
Many trails involve stairs, offering a good calf workout with scenic views.
📸 Don't Confuse Features
The Rock Bridge is often pictured, but the Devil's Icebox cave is a separate, colder, darker feature.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Devil's Icebox as a surprising natural gem with stunning geological features and a refreshing cave experience. The cool temperatures inside the cave on hot days are a major highlight, along with the scenic trails and unique rock formations. Some note the stairs can be challenging, and deeper cave exploration requires preparation and potentially permits.
"This was an amazing surprise! We were in town for a swim meet and had some time to do some exploring! This place is a must-see! It's so beautiful and well kept! Bring a flashlight and explore! Safely, of course! We will definitely visit again! (We visited in the fall at almost the end of the leaf season. )"
Marianne
"This is one of my favorite hiking spots to visit!! And the caves are so fun to walk into and explore. Bring water shoes!"
Melissa Crusan
"this is a beautiful park with the cool cave and the natural Arch one of my favorite places in Mid-Missouri other than like Ha Ha Tonka there are a lot of stairs so be ready to get the calf work out in but it has some nice Trails. When you go down into the cave "devil's icebox" you can feel the big temp change especially on a warm summer day."
P Williams
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Devil's Icebox is located within Rockbridge State Forest near Columbia, MO. It's about a 2-hour drive from both St. Louis and Kansas City. The most popular trail, the Devil's Icebox trail, is a 0.5-mile loop that leads to the cave entrance.
The main parking area for Rockbridge State Forest is accessible by car. From there, you'll need to hike to reach the Devil's Icebox cave and other features.
The main trail to the Devil's Icebox cave is about 0.5 miles, making it a relatively short hike. However, exploring other trails in the park can extend your visit significantly.
Yes, Connor's Cave is also in the vicinity. Some visitors inquire about its accessibility and worthiness compared to Devil's Icebox.
While trails are marked, it's easy to get lost if you stray too far. Stick to the main paths, especially if you're not experienced.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Devil's Icebox and Rockbridge State Forest are generally free to enter. However, deeper cave exploration might require permits from the Department of Natural Resources.
Rockbridge State Forest is typically open from dawn to dusk. The caves themselves are natural formations and do not have set operating hours, but it's best to visit during daylight for safety.
There is no entrance fee for Rockbridge State Forest, making it an affordable outdoor adventure.
Official guided tours are not commonly advertised. Visitors typically explore the caves independently, but it's wise to be prepared and cautious.
While the main cave entrance is accessible, venturing deeper may have restrictions or require permits. Always be aware of posted signs and safety recommendations.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The cave is known for its significant temperature drop, feeling much colder than the outside, especially on warm summer days.
Sturdy hiking shoes are recommended for the trails. For the cave, water shoes are a good idea due to potentially wet and slippery surfaces.
Yes, the main trails and cave entrance are generally suitable for families. However, be mindful of stairs and slippery cave floors.
Nearby attractions include The Pinnacles rock formations and the natural Rock Bridge, which is often mistaken for the cave entrance in photos.
While there might be a river or water in the area depending on weather, swimming is not a primary activity here. The focus is on hiking and cave exploration.
📸 📸 Photography
The cave entrance, the unique rock formations of The Pinnacles, and the natural Rock Bridge offer great photographic opportunities. 
It can be challenging due to low light conditions. Bringing a tripod and using a camera with good low-light performance is advised. Multiple light sources are also helpful.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the cave and rock formations. A durable camera that can handle moisture is also a plus.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Check specific park regulations.
Morning light can be beautiful on the trails, while midday can offer dramatic shadows inside the cave. Consider the weather for overall scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Be sure to bring water shoes for the cave floor and multiple flashlights so everyone can participate in illuminating the darkness. The stairs on some trails offer a fun challenge, but keep an eye on younger children. Consider visiting on a warm day to fully appreciate the cave's temperature difference. While deeper cave exploration might be restricted, the main cave entrance and the surrounding natural features like the Rock Bridge and The Pinnacles offer plenty to see and explore. Pack snacks and plenty of water, as amenities are limited within the park.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
The main cost will be transportation and any snacks or water you bring. This makes it an ideal destination for a day trip or a low-cost outdoor excursion. While there are no direct costs for admission, remember that deeper cave exploration may require permits, which could incur a small fee.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Devil's Icebox Cave
When venturing into the cave, sturdy footwear is a must. Some reviewers suggest water shoes as the cave floor can be wet and slippery. While the initial part of the cave is manageable for most, venturing further might require permits from the Department of Natural Resources, as noted by some Reddit users.
Remember that the Devil's Icebox is a natural formation, and safety should be the top priority. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid disturbing the cave environment, and never explore alone if venturing beyond the main, well-trodden areas. The experience is often described as awe-inspiring and a unique natural wonder.
Hiking Trails and Natural Features
Beyond the cave, visitors will find other remarkable geological formations. The Rock Bridge is a prominent natural arch that is frequently featured in photos, though some visitors note it's easy to confuse with the actual Devil's Icebox cave.
When planning your hike, consider the weather and trail conditions. While beautiful in all seasons, fall foliage adds an extra layer of scenic beauty.
+1 Always wear appropriate footwear, carry water, and be mindful of the terrain, especially after rain when trails can become slick.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit