Hiking to the Cornucopia ice caves

We've always had such a great day hiking to the ice caves near Cornucopia. Did we miss the chance this year? Thanks. - Chris, Duluth

Man, Chris. You live in Duluth and you didn't make it to the ice caves this year? It was the best year, as far as I know, since the lake froze in 1996 — rangers gave the green light on Jan. 29, which is ridiculously early, and it was still okay on March 15, the last time I called the hot line. People were going out there by the thousands on weekends.

They're "closed'' now. When you're thinking of going, call 715-779-3397, Ext. 3; for tips, see Ice caves of the Apostles.

In 2008, there was access for nearly a month, which was great, but in 2005 and 2006, they weren't open at all. So you never know. Let's hope we get as lucky next winter.