White Rocks Ice Beds

The Ice Beds Trail begins at the White Rocks Picnic Area. From the trailhead, the route enters a shaded hardwood forest and follows a steady, moderate climb toward the base of White Rocks Cliff. The path winds uphill across uneven terrain and through talus fields, with occasional interpretive signs explaining the area’s glacial history and geology. The trail ends at a dramatic jumble of boulders and steep ledges where cold air trapped below the rocks allows thick ice patches to persist well into summer. Shaded areas can be slippery even in dry conditions, and hikers should move carefully across slick stone surfaces. Fires and camping are prohibited in the Ice Beds area, and dogs must remain leashed. While this is a relatively short hike, the trail’s rocky footing and steep sections require moderate fitness and proper footwear. This quick but engaging route offers a rare chance to see natural ice in midsummer surrounded by the rich forests of the Green Mountains.