Owned and managed by The Nature Conservancy, Ice Mountain is located in Hampshire County, West Virginia, about a 45-minute drive from Winchester.
Piles of sandstone boulders at the base of high cliffs insulate the ice that forms during winter months. Cool air flowing from these rock piles chills the surrounding land, creating a climate where flowering plants from areas much farther north can survive. Trails lead to views from Raven Rocks at the top of the cliffs, and to the ice vents along the North River.
Since the site is fragile and located on private land, visits must be arranged in advance and escorted by a Nature Conservancy volunteer. Trips are usually offered on Saturdays. Check the website links for directions to Ice Mountain and to inquire about a visit.
