📜 Bixby State Preserve is a 184-acre biological and geological state preserve in Iowa, protected since 1979, and home to a unique ice cave. 🔍 The ice cave, a partially artificial fissure, maintains chilly air year-round due to a rare microclimate, featuring unique algific talus slopes and Ice Age flora/fauna. # Why Go ❄️ Experience naturally air-conditioned cave on hot summer days 🌿 Discover rare Ice Age flora and fauna 🚶 Enjoy hiking on quiet trails 🏞️ Explore rugged bluffs, ravines, and a trout stream # Why Avoid ⛔ Cave exploration beyond first few feet is off-limits ⚠️ Gravel access road not maintained in winter 🌊 Bear Creek can be high and unsafe to cross at times # Tips 🐾 Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash 👟 Wear hiking shoes; trails can be muddy, rocky, or slippery 🚶 Stay on established paths to protect fragile ecosystems # Cost 💰 No entrance fee # Hours 🕒 Open 24/7, but winter access to gravel road is not maintained # 🅿️ Parking Yes, near the small picnic area